PHILIPS 23809-7 MASTERCOLOR ELITE 315W | 4200K Cool White | CDM T12 ELITE MW

The Philips 23809-7 (CDM T12 ELITE 315/W942/U/O) is a medium-wattage ceramic metal halide (CMH) lamp designed to provide the highest level of light quality for commercial and horticultural applications. Delivering a sparkling 4200K Cool White light with a 90+ CRI, this lamp replicates the natural daylight spectrum far more accurately than standard HID systems. Featuring IntelliVolt-compatible technology and a specialized PGZX18 base, it offers a 30% energy savings when replacing traditional 400W metal halide systems while maintaining 90% of its lumen output throughout its 20,000-hour life. Built with FadeBlock™ UV filtration, it is the professional choice for retail high-bays, galleries, and high-performance vegetative plant growth.

Product Overview

The Philips MasterColor Elite 315W 4200K (Model 238097) utilizes an advanced ceramic arc tube to produce high-intensity discharge light with exceptional thermal stability. This lamp is engineered with a unique "Open Rated" construction (ANSI C182/O), featuring a protective shroud that allows for safe operation in both open and enclosed fixtures. Its Universal burning position provides installation flexibility for vertical downlights or horizontal floodlighting. Known in the horticulture industry as the "Blue" lamp, the 4200K spectrum is ideal for the vegetative stage of plant growth, encouraging tight internodal spacing and strong stem development before the flowering cycle.

• Unmatched Color Stability: Maintains color within ±200K, ensuring a uniform look across large installations over time.
• High Efficacy: Delivers approximately 109 lumens per watt, outperforming standard quartz metal halide bulbs.
• Sustainable Design: Part of the Philips Green Flagship line, featuring low mercury content and optimized energy consumption.
• Optical Efficiency: The PGZX18 socket design ensures the arc tube is perfectly centered for maximum reflector performance.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Philips MasterColor Elite MW
• Order Code: 23809-7 (238097)
• Full Name: CDM T12 ELITE 315/942/U/O NA
• ANSI Code: C182/O (Open or Enclosed Fixtures)
• Wattage: 315W
• Operating Voltage: 100V (Requires compatible CMH ballast)
• Color Temperature: 4200K (942)
• Initial Lumens: 34,300 lm
• Rated Avg. Life: 20,000 - 30,000 Hours
• CRI: 90
• Dimensions: 7.6" (193mm) MOL x 1.5" (38mm) Diameter
• Origin: Made in Belgium

Safety & Installation Guide

• System Requirement: This lamp must be operated on a thermally protected electronic ballast specifically designed for 315W CMH lamps (e.g., Philips Advance IZC-1315-SC).
• Burn-In Period: Upon first installation, the lamp should be allowed to run for at least 15 minutes to stabilize the chemicals in the arc tube.
• UV Safety: While equipped with FadeBlock™, this lamp emits high-intensity UV radiation. Use only in fixtures designed for HID lamps to prevent skin and eye irritation.
• Handling: Do not touch the glass envelope with bare hands. Skin oils can create hotspots that lead to premature lamp failure or shattering. If touched, clean with isopropyl alcohol.

Primary Applications

• Commercial Retail: High-ceiling showrooms and car dealerships where color accuracy is critical.
• Horticulture: Primary lighting for the vegetative growth phase or supplemental lighting in greenhouses.
• Museums & Galleries: Accurate rendering of artwork while protecting materials with FadeBlock™ UV filters.
• Industrial: Energy-efficient high-bay lighting for warehouses and manufacturing plants.