Gas discharge lamp with 5600K color temperature for professional lighting fixtures, available 200W–12000W, requires 2–4 min warmup time.
Definition
The HMI Bulb (Hydrargyrum Medium-Arc Iodide) is a high-intensity discharge lamp for professional lighting fixtures with a color temperature of approximately 5600K and very high lumen output.
Technical Characteristics
Construction
- Gas Filling: Mercury (Hydrargyrum) with halides (iodides)
- Arc Type: High-frequency arc between electrodes
- Color Temperature: approx. 5600K (daylight standard)
- Spectrum: Very complete with good color rendering
- Lifespan: 750-1000 hours (depending on type and manufacturer)
Available Wattages
Common HMI bulbs:
| Wattage | Lumen Output | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 200W | ~15000 | Small field production |
| 400W | ~32000 | Standard field kit |
| 575W | ~43000 | Medium studio |
| 800W | ~55000 | Large studio |
| 1200W | ~75000 | Major productions |
| 2500W | ~150000 | Exterior/large area |
| 4000W | ~250000 | Stadium/large area |
| 6000W | ~400000 | Mega productions |
| 12000W | ~750000 | Largest productions |
Practical Application
HMI bulbs are used for:
- Daylight Simulation: Extremely bright exterior areas
- Studio Lighting: Impressively bright light sources
- Television Lighting: Broadcasting standard
- Event Lighting: Large-area illumination
- Effect Lights: Dramatic highlights and special effects
Variations
- HMI SE: Single Ended (one connector)
- HMI DE: Double Ended (two connectors) - traditional
- Modern Variants: Various housing configurations
Maintenance and Safety
- Warm-up Time: 2-4 minutes warm-up time required
- Restart Interval: Do not switch on immediately after failure
- Safety: UV radiation requires protective glass
- Heat: Extremely hot - caution required when handling
More in the lexikon