Performance of fluorescent reflector inserts

The authors present a summary of lighting test data taken on a number of different recessed fluorescent troffer luminaires that were modified by equipping the inside top and sides of the luminaire with insert panels of high-reflectance silver or aluminum in place of the usual white-painted metal. Photometry was utilized to compare before-and-after measurements of luminaire efficiency, lumen output, light distribution, and power input. The results indicate that the reflector inserts substantially increase luminaire efficiency. Data from tests of four-lamp luminaires that were modified by removing two lamps and a ballast and installing a reflector insert indicate that luminaire power dropped by about 50%, whereas total luminaire light output dropped by about 30%. The reflectors therefore improved the efficiency of the luminaire by over 20%.< >