Light bulbs come in various shapes, each designed for specific purposes and aesthetics. Here are some of the most common light bulb shapes:
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A-Shape (A19): This is the classic bulb shape that most people are familiar with. It's rounded at the top and gradually tapers towards the base. It's used in a wide range of applications and fixtures.
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Pear Shape (PS): Similar to the A-shape but with a more elongated and slightly narrower body, resembling a pear. It's often used in decorative fixtures.
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Globe: As the name suggests, this bulb is spherical in shape. It's commonly used in bathroom vanity lights and pendant fixtures.
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Candle: Resembling a candle flame, this bulb is narrow at the top and gradually widens towards the base. It's often used in chandeliers, wall sconces, and decorative fixtures.
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Tubular: These bulbs are straight and cylindrical. They are commonly used in appliances like ovens, refrigerators, and sewing machines, as well as in some desk lamps.
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Flood or Reflector (BR, R): These bulbs have a reflective coating on the inside that directs light in a specific direction. They are used for floodlights, track lighting, recessed cans, and spotlights.
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PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector): Similar to reflector bulbs, PAR bulbs have a reflective coating, and they are known for their focused and controlled beam of light. They are often used in outdoor lighting and stage lighting.
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MR16 (Multifaceted Reflector): These small bulbs have a multifaceted reflector, making them ideal for directional lighting, such as track lighting and landscape lighting.
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Spiral or Twisted: These energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs have a spiral or twisted shape. They are designed to replace traditional incandescent bulbs and are known for their energy savings.
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Edison Bulb: These bulbs are designed to replicate the look of the original Edison-style incandescent bulbs with visible filaments. They are often used in vintage or industrial-style fixtures.
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Flame: Resembling a flickering flame, these bulbs are often used in decorative fixtures and electric fireplaces.
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Decorative Bulbs: These bulbs come in various artistic and unique shapes, often meant for decorative purposes in fixtures where the bulb itself is exposed.
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Linear Tubes: These are long, cylindrical tubes used in fluorescent lighting fixtures. They come in different lengths and diameters, such as T5, T8, and T12.
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Capsule: These are small, cylindrical bulbs that are used in applications like desk lamps, under-cabinet lighting, and some appliances.
These are just some of the many light bulb shapes available. Keep in mind that bulb technology is continually evolving, with LED and other energy-efficient options becoming more common, which might influence the available shapes.