BULB DISCUSSION BOARDS > Antique Bulb Discussion

Giant Antique Westinghouse Bulb/Edison Base, Can't find another like it.

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jjohnson40:
Hi,
I'm a new member here and was wondering if anyone has come across a giant westinghouse bulb with a much larger than ordinary Edison base. The Bulb reads " GR Replacement, Westinghouse 6000l 20A USA Burn Base Up" I cannot find any information regarding this bulb anywhere.
Thanks,
Joe

adam2:
Needs a picture to be certain. But it sounds like a series street lighting lamp.

20 A probably refers to the current rating, 20 amps was the largest common current rating.
6000 l Probably refers to the light output, 6,000 lumens.

Large numbers of lamps were burnt in series from a high voltage constant current source, these lamps could be of differing sizes provided that all had the same current rating.
These lamps were rated by current and by light output, and not by wattage or voltage.

Very little used these days, but AFAIK at least one installation still exists.
A somewhat similar system is used today for lighting airfields.

If you wish to try the lamp, you need a very low voltage supply that can supply 20 amps. A 6 volt vehicle battery would serve.

adam2:
Just to add, there are some similar bulbs on fleabay right now.
Different make, but 6,000 lumen series bulbs, current rating not stated but might be 20 amp.

Search for "series street lighting bulbs" if interested

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