Varieties of light bulb sockets
If it is decided to make repairs or modernize the lighting in the house, you need to understand what kinds of sockets for light bulbs there are. It is also useful to learn about the design of this element and performance characteristics.
What is a socket, what functions it performs
The electrical system consists of many elements. These are fixtures, connection cables and special installations that are needed to control or connect the different parts. Such installations are also sockets, they perform two important functions:
- They connect the base of the bulb to the electrical cable.
- Fix the bulb in the lighting fixture.
The history of the development of electricity consisted of different stages, but much more convenience was added when the threaded base with a socket was invented. The versatility of this connection allows the use of different lamps.
A wide variety of materials are used in the manufacture of the socket. Usually it is a high-temperature-resistant plastic, metal or ceramic. There are also unique silicone-based models.
What are the parts of a cartridge?
It is a prefabricated construction consisting of several parts. Inside the body there are still a core, a screw-type clamp, a pressure contact and a thread through which the bulb is screwed.
The core .
Ceramics, plastic or carbon fiber are usually used for its production. These materials allow the bulbs to work, but at the same time the cost of electricity remains minimal. Depending on the design of the cartridge, the size of the core and its shape may vary.
Screw clamp.
Its main function is to provide a connection of conductor and terminal parts. They are available in lamps marked O, U, C. In the design of newer models, the terminals may be located on the outside.
Clamping contact
A clamping contact is one that is pressed against a metal or semiconductor. It is made of brass. Some products may have two or four push-in contacts, while others have a single helix.
Thread
Is a necessary element in the design, but it also comes in different forms. There are threads designed specifically for use in industrial areas, and there are domestic variants. There are models for outdoor installation, they are not afraid of snow, rain and are able to work in difficult conditions.
Housing
Modern models of cartridge housings are made of ceramic. This material can withstand high temperatures without melting, deforming or breaking. Also, modern versions have an indestructible design with built-in threads.
The principle of operation of a screw cartridge
All the component parts are connected to each other, each has its own task. Two brass contacts, threads and mounting strips are used to transfer the current. The contacts touch the base of the lamp when connected.
Important! According to safety rules, the phase is connected to the center contact of the lamp base. This prevents human contact with the phase.
This scheme of the principle of both models E and G, but the latter differ in a simpler design and the way of transferring current to the bulb base.
Types of sockets
Today there are two main types of sockets for light bulbs on the market - screw and pin. They differ in design and type of connection, but are universal for different lamps.
Pin
Operate from 220 volts, marked with the Latin letter G. Pin designs are used in spot pendant luminaires. There are models of different wattages both for industry and for homes. Pin variants can differ from each other by material, dimensions, fastening elements, the number of contact parts.
Screwed .
Their design has an internal thread, are used to connect lamps with a threaded base. Most often use E14 or E27.In addition to the two main ones, there are 6 other varieties of cartridges of this type. An important characteristic is the diameter, it determines the mains load and power.
Socket adapters .
Another, separate type of design. Its functionality can be understood right from the name, it allows you to go from one socket variant to another. For example, from E14 to E27. You may need this during repair work or when buying a lamp with a different socket.
There is no problem with the work of the adapters, but you should take into account that the construction will lengthen. As a result, the lamp will protrude a little more than usual. For some luminaires it is almost imperceptible, but for some it spoils the appearance very much.
Marking
On the surface of the cartridges there is a marking indicating the main characteristics:
- The letter T spells out the rated temperature;
- Amperes (A) indicates the current value;
- Voltage is measured in volts and marked with the letter B;
- on the outside of the product there are IPXI symbols, marking the moisture protection of the product.
Other information such as the type of current (for products with a switch), the logo or name of the manufacturer and the maximum operating temperature are also marked.
Example! The most popular E14 and E27 sockets work at a voltage of 250 V. The E14 model has a rated current of 2A and the E27 model has a rated current of up to 4A.
Advantages and disadvantages of popular types of cartridges
Most often on the market are products made of carbolite and ceramic. To understand the nuances of operation, it is necessary to study the main advantages and disadvantages of such cartridges.
The nuances of proper installation
According to the standard, the socket to the lamp is attached through the bottom, in which there is a hole, through which the electrical wire is led out. But there are also non-standard designs with their own nuances of connection.
It will be useful to read: Connecting the socket.
Connecting with wires
Do not create a direct connection between the socket and the cable. First, the socket must be securely fixed in the design of the lamp, and secondly, a plastic bushing with a hole for the wire is added to the design. A plastic screw is attached to this sleeve to provide a fixation.
On the tube.
There is also a metal tube in the circuit. It increases the strength of the construction and allows you to mount suspended weighty plafonds. Included should be metal nuts, they fix the fitting for the lamp. As a result, the whole load of the weight is on the tube, inside it is hollow, which allows you to conduct the connection cable.
Sleeve
Tubular bushings are used to fix the sockets in the construction of wall and table lamps. Usually these bushings are made of sheet material. It is only necessary to make a hole, through which the socket is attached.
There are disadvantages in the operation of low-quality plastic bushings, they melt at high temperatures. In such cases, it is better to replace the part with a metal one.
Screwless contact clamps
There are also designs with clamp contacts, they are connected by means of a special clip. After that, the tube is attached to the bottom of the light fixture, conduct the electrical cable. The body is usually made in the form of a cylinder, fixed to the bottom.
This version of the product can be repaired, replacing failed parts. A screwdriver is used to open it, you just need to bend the latches to the sides. It is important to be as careful as possible not to damage the wires.