Harmonic content and illumination characteristics versus voltage for energy saving fluorescent lighting systems

In 1989 and 1990, tests on energy-saving fluorescent ballast and lamp combinations were conducted. These tests consisted of varying the applied voltage from base voltage (120 V or 277 V) down to 75% of base and up to 15% above base in incremental steps. The electrical parameters of active power, reactive power, current, and harmonic content of the current and voltage relative to the fundamental 60 Hz input were measured and recorded at each step of the voltage traverse. The illumination characteristics were also recorded. The tests were performed to determine compatibility of lamp/ballast systems to maximize the efficiency of both illumination and electrical characteristics as they affect the utilities from the point of view of demand-side management. A reduction in harmonic content for some combinations of ballasts with T8, T10, and T12 bulbs was obtained for these systems relative to those similarly tested in the 1980s. Some solid-state ballast and lamp combinations exhibited current harmonic content below 10% for total harmonic distortion. Certain lighting systems exhibited constant illumination both at lowered and elevated voltage levels.<>