Filament bulbs

The most commonly used bulb for the model fairground is the LES screw thread based lamp. The glass of these is 5mm diameter – so a little oversize for 1/24th scale but fine in the larger scales. Wire ended bulbs of similar size are also available.

For fairground models I have standardised on 14volt 0.05amp bulbs. These produce more than enough light for most models and the 14volt rating if used on a 12volt AC supply gives quadruple the life of a 12volt bulb on a DC supply.

In designing the lighting on a model you should aim to need less than 20Amps in total – at 12volts this equates to 240Watts which will generate a fair bit of heat. 20Amps worth of 0.05Amp bulbs = 400 bulbs.

LES SCREW IN BULBS SUITABLE FOR MODELS FROM THE MFD AND DRE RANGE OF DRAWINGS.
14Volts 0.05Amps – £85 per 100; £10 per 10.
Quantities over 100 may be ordered at the 100 rate.
7/32nd Whitworth tap and three drills for making holes for LES bulbs – £8 per set.
Aluminium channel for LES bulbs – £8 per metre.

LIGHTING THE MODEL FAIRGROUND – A 37 page booklet covering most aspects of lighting and motorising the model fair. The standard text on the subject with both theory and much practical advice – ideal for the beginner and the more experienced – £8.