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FIRE SERVICE AND GENERAL FIRE SAFETY TOPICS => Fire Investigation => Topic started by: fireftrm on June 26, 2007, 10:04:22 AM

Title: Low energy light bulb
Post by: fireftrm on June 26, 2007, 10:04:22 AM
I have recently been approached by a member of the public who had a low energy light (Mazda) of the three mini neon 'kettle element style' tubes, with a large base. the base began to get very hot and emit smoke. Has anyone come across similar problems?
Title: Low energy light bulb
Post by: kurnal on June 26, 2007, 10:16:08 AM
Before I left the service I saw it a couple of times with low energy light bulbs. I recollect  a colleage broght one in if I recall  was thought to have started a fire.
In the one I saw the problems occurred with a breakdown of the printed circuit board caused by overheating or arcing in a localised area, the arcing cused the PC board to carbonise which led to further arcing until the circuit breaker operated.
Title: Low energy light bulb
Post by: Mr. P on June 26, 2007, 10:44:21 AM
Have seen some where the plastic/resin has distorted and dis coloured at the point where the tube goes into it.
Title: Low energy light bulb
Post by: John Webb on June 26, 2007, 10:51:34 AM
I've seen a couple of these bulbs where the internal electronics have failed with the generation of heat and the usual 'electrical' smell. There is conflicting advice about using these in enclosed fittings and I think that some makes may be more susceptible to overheating than others. Those I use in my own home I always mark with the date of installation. One or two have failed in under a year!
Title: Low energy light bulb
Post by: nearlythere on August 29, 2007, 02:32:07 PM
Quote from: fireftrm
I have recently been approached by a member of the public who had a low energy light (Mazda) of the three mini neon 'kettle element style' tubes, with a large base. the base began to get very hot and emit smoke. Has anyone come across similar problems?
Yep, me also. I think they are an absolute fire hazard.
Title: Low energy light bulb
Post by: BB on August 31, 2007, 11:54:13 PM
Another fire hazard is the mains plug in air freshners. Been to a couple of incidents where they have overheated and have caused considerable fire damage. These items also have a tendency to get very hot.