There have been opinions, perhaps inappropriately considered distributor advertisements, released recently regarding the uncertain quality and value of relamped projector lamps. It appears that Projector Lamp Services has really stirred up a controversial matter within the industry, making some distributors sweat as end-users are given another option to high priced projector lamps.
Relamping is not a new or unknown technology. In fact, Relamping is simply an extension of the original manufacturing process. When combined with strict handling, aligning and safety procedures, relamping can be as reliable as the original lamp. However, as is the case with most industries, be cautious of those companies, which cut corners and have limited knowledge about lamp technology. Performance and quality can be compromised in those lamps, which are remanufactured by inexperienced operators.
The initial question may be, What exactly is relamping?
Relamping is a service that re-news a projector lamp to its original working state, without replacing all the components of the lamp assembly. Thereby reducing cost and waste while still ensuring optimal performance. The component that is ALWAYS replaced is the bulb- the actual piece that produces the light. Sometimes other components such as the reflector, wires, connectors and screws are replaced to guarantee proper light
output, fitment and functionality.
Projector Lamp Services is not a lamp distributor with limited knowledge of the technology used in projection lamps. PLS started as a lamp manufacturer, ensuring that all PLS engineers and technicians are thoroughly trained in the intricacies and safety precautions associated with these super high pressure mercury lamps. PLS manufacturing practices have been developed by lamp manufacturing and optical engineers. They use OEM lamps whenever possible (at no extra charge) and only the highest quality compatible lamp if necessary. All of PLS's lamp suppliers (including OEM suppliers) have been qualified by extensive quality evaluations. No lamp can ship until they undergo and pass a multi-step assessment, which concludes with the lamp being fired up to full brightness, cooled down, and completely cleaned before being boxed.
In addition to the cost benefit, relamping is also an environmentally responsible option. Re-using the lamp housing (keeping in mind that any and all worn components are replaced) and replacing just the lamp reduces waste. Additionally, PLS recycles all spent lamps at no additional charge, ensuring that
mercury is not released into our environment. Federal regulations require the proper disposal or recycling of projection lamps, which can be costly for institutions and facilities using multiple projectors.
A few more tidbits of information:
- Using re-newed or relamped projector lamps does
not void a warranty. However, most warranties should be expired by the
time the first lamp fails, anyway.
- Relamping extends the life of a projector by
providing the opportunity to relamp discontinued models.
- Additionally, relamping reduces the lead-time for out of stock or unavailable lamps to 5 business days.
In general, relamping can save 25-50% off the cost of a new projector lamp. All this, and a 90 day warranty. Replacing projector lamps has never been more safe, affordable and environmentally
responsible.
A fundamental, albeit irrational, reaction many have to a perceived competitor is to attack the company's practice in an effort to create doubt and skepticism within the industry. The information recently released by some lamp distributors gives unsubstantiated opinion about aftermarket projector lamps, and specifically relamped projector lamps. Surprisingly, one of the articles was even released by a company, which sells relamped projector lamps. PLS is flattered to come under
such barrage, as it means the competition is truly unnerved. PLS is really offering a quality product- a green option, in more ways than one- that threatens to capture market share. Projector Lamp Services is willing to ask the competition, If relamping is so poor an option, why are you nervous?
Gina Sansivero,
PLS Sales & Marketing Manager
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This is the symbol for Mercury. Products that are stamped with this symbol should be recycled!