A flash lamp system is a collection of flash lamps and other control accessories working together to achieve a certain goal. Flash lamps, or flashlamps, are gas-emitting lamps used to generate high-intensity flashes. Flash lamps use inert gasses such as Xenon and Krypton, and electric currents to produce visible light. The electrodes in a flash lamp are connected to a capacitor which supplies high electric current to energize the inert gases. The capacitors are used for the fast delivery of current into the electrodes resulting in a flashing effect. As the flash lamp operates, ultraviolet radiation is produced as a byproduct. To minimize its effect, the glass covering on flashlamps are lined with ultraviolet absorbing material. Flash lamp systems are applied in various industries. Some common application of the lighting includes;
Medical Lighting Equipment
Medical lighting is one of the most crucial aspects of technological advancements. Medical lighting equipment is made to match the requirements for patients’ and medics’ safety. Flash lamps are used in many lighting equipments for operating rooms and other places in a medical institution. The frequency of flashes in the lamps is modified to match the needed purpose. For instance, flash lamps are used with fiber optic cables to give visual displays of internal body organs. Fashlamps produce minimal heat and noise; therefore, they are used in operating rooms to create a conducive environment for surgeries.
Cosmetics
Flash lamp systems are very significant in cosmetics. Lamps that emit laser radiation are used for cosmetic applications such as hair removal and skin rejuvenation. Manufacturers of cosmetic laser equipment program the flash lamps to produce the required amounts of laser radiation for specific treatment procedures. Equipment used for manicure and pedicure is fitted with radiation-emitting flashlamps for disinfection and curing purposes. The use of flashlamps in cosmetics has been in use for over fifty years.
Aviation
The aviation industry is among the top users of flash lamp systems. In airports, flash lamp systems are used to mark the runways to direct pilots from going off. In high rise structures, such as communication towers and buildings, flashlights warn the pilots when flying in low visibility areas. Warning lights inside airplanes use flashlamp technology. These lamps generate flashes at intervals to alert the pilot or crew of a possible mechanical failure. The lamps are fitted on the airplane wings to improve visibility and prevent the chances of a collision.
Photography
Speed lights used in photography use flashlamp technology. The inert gas in the flash lamp fitted on the speed lights gets energized by current triggered from capacitors to produce a flashing light. Speed lights are preferred in photography due to their ability to reduce blur and stop motion. Different configurations are made on flash lamp systems to be used in videography lighting.
Other applications of flash lamps include solar simulation and stroboscopy. When purchasing flash lamp systems for whatever reasons, individuals should have the required use in mind. Understanding the need for the lamps helps in purchasing the right type of flash lamps. Flashlamps for industrial use need to be approved by relevant authorities for the safety of the users.