What is a Magnetic HID ballast?
The electromagnetic or “magnetic” ballast is an inductor consisting of one, two, or three copper or aluminum coils assembled on a core (or “stack”) of electrical-grade steel laminations – commonly referred to as a core-and-coil ballast. This assembly transforms electrical power into a form appropriate to start and operate HID lamps. Ballasts for high pressure sodium and pulse start metal halide lamps also include an ignitor to start the lamp. The third major component is the capacitor, which improves the power factor, subsequently reducing line current draw, and in some ballasts circuits works with the core-and-coil to set the lamp operating wattage. Typically, all three components – the basic open core-and-coil, capacitor, and ignitor – are assembled directly into the lighting fixture by the lighting luminaire manufacturer. However, some ballast core-and-coil assemblies are encased in a container to meet specific needs. Go to core and coil product page…
