Norman Lamps, Inc.

Aluminum reflector halogen bulbs, often designated as AR111 or AR70, use precision-formed aluminum reflectors to achieve tighter beam control and higher efficiency than standard glass reflector bulbs can provide. The aluminum reflector reflects virtually all the light forward (very little light escapes backwards through the reflector), creating efficient, controllable beams ideal for retail display lighting, museum and gallery installations, architectural accent lighting, and any application where precise light placement and maximum efficiency within the beam pattern are priorities.

The "AR" designation stands for aluminum reflector, with the following number indicating diameter in millimeters. AR111 bulbs are 111mm (approximately 4.4 inches) in diameter, similar in size to PAR36 bulbs but with superior optical performance due to the precision aluminum reflector. AR70 bulbs are 70mm (approximately 2.75 inches) in diameter, falling between MR16 and AR111 in size. The aluminum reflector design allows for very precise faceting and shaping, creating clean beam patterns with sharp cutoffs and minimal spill light outside the intended beam.

Beam angle options range from very narrow spots (8-12 degrees) for precise accent lighting to medium floods (40-45 degrees) for broader coverage. The precision of aluminum reflectors means these beam angles are more accurate and consistent than with pressed glass reflectors – when an AR111 specification says 24-degree beam angle, you get a clean 24-degree beam with sharp edges rather than the softer, less defined beam edges common in glass reflector bulbs. This precision is why AR111 bulbs command premium prices in professional lighting applications.

Voltage configurations include both low voltage (typically 12V, sometimes 24V) requiring transformers, and line voltage (120V) versions that connect directly to standard circuits. Low voltage AR111 bulbs are extremely common in track lighting systems and display lighting where multiple bulbs run from a central transformer. The lower voltage allows for more compact transformers and provides some safety advantages in applications where the fixtures are accessible. Line voltage versions simplify installation by eliminating transformers but are somewhat less common.

Base types vary by design and voltage. Many AR111 bulbs use G53 bases (two pins 53mm apart) for low voltage versions, while some use GU10 twist-lock bases for line voltage. Some AR111 bulbs integrate the transformer in the bulb itself, allowing them to screw into standard medium (E26) sockets while internally converting 120V to the low voltage required by the halogen capsule. These self-contained versions simplify installation but cost more and can't have the transformer serviced separately if it fails.

The applications where AR111 bulbs excel include retail display lighting where merchandise must look its absolute best, museum and gallery lighting where artwork must be illuminated with precision and excellent color rendering, hospitality accent lighting in hotels and restaurants, architectural installations highlighting specific features, and high-end residential applications where lighting quality justifies the premium cost. The perfect CRI 100 color rendering of halogen combined with the precise beam control of aluminum reflectors creates lighting that makes colors vivid and details sharp.

LED AR111 replacements have become available, offering dramatic energy savings – a 12W LED AR111 can replace a 75W halogen while lasting 25,000+ hours versus 3,000-4,000 hours for halogen. The beam quality and color rendering of premium LED AR111 bulbs now approach halogen performance, though some lighting professionals still prefer halogen for critical color applications. The cool operation of LED is a significant advantage in display cases and installations where halogen's heat generation is problematic.

Common Sizes: AR111 (111mm / 4.4" diameter - most common), AR70 (70mm / 2.75" diameter)

Beam Angles: Very narrow spot (8-12°), narrow spot (15-24°), spot (30°), flood (40-45°)

Voltage Options: Low voltage (12V, 24V - require transformer), line voltage (120V - some versions with integrated transformer)

Base Types: G53 (low voltage), GU10 (line voltage), E26 medium screw (integrated transformer versions)