A multifaceted reflector (typically abbreviated MR) gentle bulb is a reflector housing format for halogen in addition to some LED and fluorescent lamps. MR lamps have been initially designed for use in slide projectors, however see use in residential lighting and EcoLight home lighting retail lighting as nicely. They are suited to functions that require directional lighting reminiscent of observe lighting, recessed ceiling lights, desk lamps, pendant fixtures, landscape lighting, retail display lighting, EcoLight and bicycle headlights. MR lamps are designated by symbols reminiscent of MR16 the place the diameter is represented by numerals indicating units of eighths of an inch. Widespread sizes for basic EcoLight lighting are MR11 (11⁄8 inches, 35 mm) and MR16 (16⁄8 inches, EcoLight smart bulbs fifty one mm), with MR8 (8⁄8 inch, EcoLight lighting 25 mm) and EcoLight lighting MR20 (20⁄8 inches, sixty four mm) used in specialty purposes. Many run on low voltage rather than mains voltage alternating current so require a power provide. 3,314,331 for a miniature reflector EcoLight lighting lamp in 1967. The innovation was utilizing the lamp rim, rather than the bottom, because the reference airplane for focusing.
This allowed extra flexible electrical mounting preparations and more exact focusing. Most MR lamps include a halogen capsule (or, bulb) integrated with a pressed glass reflector EcoLight outdoor with a base conforming to bi-pin GU5.3 commonplace. The reflector controls the route and spread of gentle forged from the lamp. Some lamps use an aluminum coating as a reflector. Others use selective dichroic coating that displays seen mild and permits infrared radiation to go by means of. This type reduces heating of illuminated objects since less infrared radiation is current in the light beam. Nonetheless, dichroic lamps must only be utilized in compatible fixtures that can dissipate the heat. Dichroic lamps should not be fitted to recessed or enclosed luminaires with the IEC 60598 No Cool Beam image. The brightness of MR lamps may be adjusted when used with appropriate gentle fixtures and dimmers. Nevertheless, the shade temperature changes significantly when the lamp is dimmed, shifting dramatically to the hotter end of the spectrum.
Like all halogen lamps, MR lamps produce vital heat and EcoLight lighting care should be taken to avoid contact with pores and skin or proximity to flammable materials when the lamp is on or has been on just lately. Halogen lamps (18 lm/W typical) are more vitality environment friendly than common incandescent lamps (15 lm/W typical) however nonetheless fall far behind different extra-recent varieties akin to fluorescent lamps (80-one hundred lm/W), gasoline discharge lamps (100-200 lm/W relying on types), EcoLight lighting and LEDs (125-a hundred and fifty lm/W typical in vibrant white depending on style). With both types of incandescent bulbs, useful life could be significantly shortened if their filaments expertise mechanical shock or vibration. Using an electronic transformer with a gentle begin function can significantly prolong life, as it reduces the characteristically high inrush current that happens initially when the lamp is cold. Dimming additionally extends life significantly. MR lamps, like all quartz-halogen lamps, produce some undesirable ultraviolet gentle. Often, this must be filtered out.
Additionally, the quartz capsules of the lamps may rupture or explode upon failure of the lamps. For these two causes, some MR lamps embody a cowl glass that serves as an integrated ultraviolet filter and explosion shield. MR16 lamps lacking this cover require the use of a fixture that incorporates an external piece of glass particularly designed to provide both ultraviolet and bodily safety. MR lamps can be found in 10-75 watt energy rankings (150-800 lumens). MR lamps most often function at 12 volts, though they are additionally available in other voltages. These lamps use a bi-pin connector for power: 12-volt MR11 bulbs usually use a GU4 base, and 12-volt MR16 bulbs often use a GU5.3 base. The frequent 12-volt MR16 lamps, subsequently, require a ferromagnetic or digital transformer-typically misnamed as a ballast-to transform the 120- or 230-volt mains voltage to the extra-low voltage required by the lamp. Certain MR lamps can function immediately on the mains voltage. These lamps sometimes use a GU10 turn-and-lock base, so they can't be by accident interchanged with low-voltage lamps.
GU10 is distinguished from the lower-voltage MR lamps by the U-formed ceramic base mount with a ten mm (pin middle-to-center distance) 2-pin bayonet mount. MR16 lamps with an built-in transformer are additionally obtainable. These lamps have screw bases to suit customary medium-base Edison sockets. MR lamps are commonly out there in range of coloration temperatures, from about 2700 Ok to 7000 Ok, to fulfill numerous applications. Retrofit lamps that generate mild by a special precept but uses the MR kind-factor can be found. For example, LED-based mostly MR16 lamps seem similar to halogen lamps and may be utilized in most fixtures designed for MR lamps. The identical is true of MR11-suitable LED lamps. Fixtures designed for halogen MR16 or MR11 lamps that use digital transformers may need to be retrofitted with LED-suitable transformers. There is a wide variety of designs, various considerably with regard to beam width, EcoLight brand light colour, efficiency and luminous power.