We recently installed Filter-RayUV Shields from Light Impressions.  Our
facility director has noticed that the fluorescent tubes we sleeved, with
these u-v shielding acrylic tubes, are burning out 60% to 70% sooner than
they would’ve without the shields.  He suspects that the heat buildup is
causing our fluorescent tubes to burn out sooner.  Further, the display
case where we are using this product doesn’t have electronic ballasts for
the fluorescent we use.  Is this a contributing factor?We want to know if
any other museums are experiencing the same problem with their u-v
shielded fluorescent tubes.     The L.I. catalog notes that these
tubes, which slide over your existing fluorescent tubes, are designed for
use with standard diameter T-12 lamps, and standard 400 M.A. lamps only.
Inside diameter of these UV shields is 1 5/8”.

Please note that the tubes are not the standard 4' length.  The designers
opted for 3' length.  Any suggestions in mitigating our problem?  Are
there any 3' fluorescent tubes out there with standard diameter T-12
lamps and standard 400 M.A. lamps?  Our exhibit designer, Joe Silvestri,
would be very happy to hear from anyone out there regarding this problem.

O

Olivia S. Anastasiadis, Curator
Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace
18001 Yorba Linda Boulevard
Yorba Linda, CA  92886
(714) 993-5075; fax (714) 528-0544; e-mail:  [log in to unmask]