How to make an air cooled reflector

[Grateful D]

I want to convert my reflector into an ir cooled reflector. I can easily run the hose and cut some vent slits, but does anyone have any good ideas for putting some glass in? i can get it cut at the hardware store but i dont know what type to use or how to install it. any ideas would be great. thanks

 

[DarkWhite]

You will need to look/ask for heat resistant glass.
Types that would work are "Pyrex glass", "Duran glass" (both Borosilicate glass : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borosilicate_glass ) or the more expensive quarts glass but that type will probably be harder to find in the proper size or have it cut for you.

The reason is normal glass can't cope with the expansion the heat produces in the glass and it will break, the named one's above have a different composition to handle expansion

 

[stealthcabber]

you can get some L-brackets or straps ( 1/2''strips of metal w/ alot of holes). And you need Tempered Glass.

 

[Grateful D]

Thanks guys. When i get around to trying it in the next couple weeks ill update the thread on exactly what i did and how it worked

 

[shaunmulok]

here are 2 good links i have been looking at think about making my lights into air cooled lights
check these links
http://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.php?t=62161
http://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.php?t=101298 hope they help you

 

[Grateful D]

Thanks those links are great. i am gonna try and do somthing about air cooling in the next week or so ill let you guys know the outcome

 

[Directrix]

I'm assuming you already have a hood you want to make vented?

Well I did it to my 250w hydrofarm enclosed ballast.

I had to find a fan I wanted to use, then I carefully took an outline of where the fan edges would be flush to sit against the hood partially.

Then I drew the outline on with sharpie and took a masonry grinder to the hood(without the bulb of course!). You have to be very careful to ALWAYS know where your outline is while you're cutting. And keep the edge of the disc at a 45* angle to the metal you are grinding or cutting or whatever.

Idk it worked perfect for me, I'm not saying it's for everyone though..