What is EN 62387-2020?

The EN 62387-2020, also known as the "Electrical endurance of electronic ballasts for tubular fluorescent lamps," is a technical standard that defines the performance requirements and test methods for electronic ballasts used in tubular fluorescent lamps. This standard aims to ensure the reliable operation and durability of electronic ballasts in various lighting applications.

Key Components and Functionality

Electronic ballasts are essential components in tubular fluorescent lamp systems, providing voltage regulation and current control for efficient and stable light output. They consist of several key components:

Power factor correction (PFC) circuitry: This component helps optimize the input power factor, reducing harmonic distortion and improving energy efficiency.

Inverter circuitry: The inverter converts the direct current (DC) supplied by the power source into high-frequency alternating current (AC) needed to drive the fluorescent lamp.

Control circuitry: This circuitry includes protection mechanisms, such as overvoltage and overcurrent protection, as well as dimming capabilities for adjustable lighting levels.

Overall, the electronic ballast ensures proper lamp ignition, stable operating voltages, and flicker-free lighting performance.

Testing and Compliance

The EN 62387-2020 standard provides detailed procedures for testing the electrical endurance of electronic ballasts. These tests evaluate the ballast's performance under various conditions, including voltage deviations, temperature variations, and load fluctuations.

Some of the key tests include:

Power Factor Measurement: This test verifies that the ballast's power factor meets the required standards for efficient energy usage.

Endurance Test: In this test, the ballast undergoes continuous operation under specified conditions to assess its reliability and endurance over an extended period of time.

Flickering Test: This test checks the ballast's ability to provide flicker-free lighting by measuring the percentage of flickering during different operating modes.

Overvoltage and Overcurrent Test: The ballast is subjected to higher voltages and currents to evaluate its robustness and the effectiveness of its protective features.

Conclusion

The EN 62387-2020 standard plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and longevity of electronic ballasts used in tubular fluorescent lamps. Compliance with this standard ensures that these critical components perform reliably and efficiently, meeting the demands of various lighting applications. By adhering to the testing procedures outlined in the standard, manufacturers can confidently guarantee the performance of their electronic ballasts while providing users with safe and high-quality lighting solutions.