Norman Lamps, Inc.

2D fluorescent lamps, also known as 4-pin compact fluorescent lamps or square/rectangular CFLs, feature folded tube designs arranged in flat, two-dimensional patterns that provide high light output in remarkably compact fixtures. The unique shape allows these bulbs to deliver the efficiency and long life of fluorescent technology while fitting into slim-profile ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, and emergency lighting applications where traditional linear tubes or bulky CFLs won't work.

The "2D" designation refers to the flat, planar arrangement of the folded tubes – typically in square or rectangular configurations – as opposed to circular fluorescent tubes or the three-dimensional spiral/twist designs of screw-in CFLs. This flat profile means fixtures can be much slimmer and more visually unobtrusive, making 2D lamps particularly popular in European and Asian markets for residential and commercial ceiling fixtures. In North America, they're most commonly found in emergency exit signs and specific fixture types designed around the 2D form factor.

Common configurations include square formats (like 16W, 28W, 38W in various sizes) and rectangular formats, with the tubes arranged in parallel or grid patterns. The wattages typically range from 10W to 55W depending on the size and configuration, providing substantial light output for relatively low energy consumption. Color temperatures are available in warm white (2700K-3000K) for comfortable residential lighting and cool white (4000K-6500K) for commercial applications requiring brighter, more alert illumination.

The base configuration on 2D lamps is typically a 4-pin design (GR8, GR10q, or similar) where the pins are arranged in a square pattern. This 4-pin base connects to an external ballast housed in the fixture – the ballast is not integrated into the bulb like screw-in CFLs. This separation of bulb and ballast is actually an advantage in commercial applications: when the bulb reaches end of life, you replace just the relatively inexpensive lamp while the ballast (which typically lasts much longer) stays in place. Over the fixture's lifetime, this reduces both replacement costs and waste.

Installation and replacement are straightforward once you understand the mechanism. The lamp typically twists and locks into a mounting plate that houses the socket connections, similar to how circular fluorescent bulbs mount. The key is aligning the pins correctly with the socket holes, pushing in gently, and giving a quarter-turn to lock the bulb in place. Removal reverses the process – turn counter-clockwise and pull. The flat, rigid construction of 2D lamps makes them less fragile and easier to handle than traditional linear tubes.

Lifespan for 2D fluorescent lamps typically runs 10,000-20,000 hours depending on the specific lamp design and operating conditions. That translates to several years of service in typical residential or commercial applications, even with daily use. The long life combined with energy efficiency (these lamps use about 70-80% less energy than equivalent incandescent lighting) makes them economical despite higher upfront costs compared to standard bulbs.

LED alternatives to 2D fluorescent lamps are becoming available as LED technology matures, offering even better energy efficiency (another 40-50% reduction versus fluorescent) and longer lifespans (25,000-50,000 hours). However, retrofitting typically requires either finding LED 2D lamps compatible with existing ballasts or bypassing the ballast entirely, which adds complexity. For existing 2D fixtures in good condition, continuing with fluorescent lamp replacements often remains the most practical and economical approach.

Common Sizes: 16W (square, approximately 6"), 28W (square, approximately 8"), 38W (square, approximately 10"), various rectangular formats, wattages from 10W to 55W

Base Types: 4-pin configurations (GR8, GR10q, various manufacturer-specific pins) with twist-lock mounting

Typical Applications: Low-profile ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, emergency exit signs, commercial and residential lighting, European and Asian market fixtures, anywhere compact high-efficiency lighting is needed