Halogen lamps

Halogen lamps are incandescent lamps and function similarly to incandescent bulbs. They also have a filament inside that glows when an electric current passes through it, emitting light. The difference lies in the halogen gas contained within halogen lamps, which significantly extends their lifespan compared to incandescent bulbs. Halogen molecules are small particles that recapture particles ejected from the filament—so-called evaporated tungsten atoms—and return them to the filament. This ultimately increases both the light output and the lifespan of the bulb. This mechanism of halogen bulbs is known as the halogen cycle. High-voltage and low-voltage halogen bulbs are available for purchase; the former are suitable for standard 230-volt mains voltage, while the latter operate at only 12 volts. Low-voltage halogen bulbs therefore require a transformer to step down the voltage. In addition, the bulbs of both types are often equipped with an infrared-reflective coating (also known as an IR coating), so that the heat radiation from the filament can be reflected back onto the filament, thereby saving energy. Like incandescent bulbs, high-voltage halogen lamps with directional light and an efficiency class lower than B are now being phased out of the market in accordance with Regulation No. 244/2009, “Requirements for the Ecodesign of Household Lamps with Unbundled Light.” This measure and the regulation are intended to protect the environment and conserve energy.