What is a lamp-based runway fixture?
The classic runway light: a filament lamp behind an optic and colour filter, simple, proven, and replaced when the lamp burns out.
A lamp-based runway fixture uses a filament lamp as its light source, normally a tungsten-halogen type. A reflector or prism and a lens form the beam, and where the light is not white a coloured filter in the beam path gives the colour.
It is a simple, well-proven design. The lamp’s waste heat helps keep inset fixtures clear of snow and ice. In exchange, the lamp has a limited life, draws more power than an LED, and is replaced in service. On a series circuit the isolating transformer keeps the circuit running if a lamp fails. Always confirm details against the manufacturer’s data.
Filament lamp, optic and filter. Proven and simple, with lamp changes and higher power.
LED board, optic and driver. Longer life and lower power, with a managed heat path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1What is a lamp-based runway fixture?
A runway light whose light source is a filament lamp, usually a tungsten-halogen type. The lamp sits behind an optic that forms the beam, and a coloured filter where the light is not white.
Q2What are the main parts of a lamp-based fixture?
The lamp and its holder, a reflector or prism that directs the light, a colour filter where needed, the lens or window, and the body and base with the connection to the isolating transformer. Details vary by product.
Q3How does the colour get made in a lamp-based fixture?
The lamp gives broadly white light, so green, red, yellow or blue is made by a coloured filter in the beam path. The filter takes out other wavelengths and absorbs part of the light as heat.
Q4Why does a lamp-based fixture need regular lamp changes?
A filament lamp has a limited life and eventually burns out. Replacement is a routine maintenance task, so lamp stock, lamp type and the fixture's seals and optics need to be checked when the lamp is changed.
Q5What happens on the series circuit when a lamp fails?
The isolating transformer is designed so the series circuit keeps running when its lamp fails (open-circuit protection). The failed light goes dark, but the rest of the circuit stays lit; the lamp should be replaced promptly because running with an open secondary stresses the transformer.
Q6How does a lamp-based fixture compare with an LED fixture?
A lamp-based fixture is simple and well proven, and its waste heat helps melt snow on inset fixtures. It draws more power, has a shorter life and needs lamp changes. An LED fixture reverses those points.
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