Lamp Parts Diagram - Detailed Anatomy Of Different Lamp Types

Understanding the lamp's structure is essential when you have to disassemble it for cleaning, fixing, replacing, or recycling. Although the lamp structure may vary by lamp type, design, and manufacturer, we can still discover an overview of lamp parts. 

In this article, let’s explore detailed anatomies and explanations of table lamps, desk lamps, floor lamps, ceiling lamps, and wall lamps.

Table Lamp Parts Diagram

Table lamps are one of the most popular lamp types in any house or office. Let’s see what constructs the table lamps.

1- Lock

A lock is a small nut screwed onto the lamp harp. This tiny part may be overlooked sometimes, but it plays an important role in ensuring the shade stays firmly in place.

2- Lampshade fitting

Typically made from sturdy metal such as brass and stainless steel or hard plastic, the lampshade fitting determines the general shape and structure of the shade, and ensures stability by holding the shade securely in place.

3- Shade

Not only does the lampshade serve as a shield to soften and direct the light in a certain direction, but it is also a key factor influencing the style and overall look of the lamp based on shade materials and shape. Choose shade wisely to have the right table lamp for your needs.

4- Bulb

Bulbs perform the main function of the lamp which is illuminating. Bulbs for table lamps are available in a wide range of bulb types such as incandescent bulbs, CFLs, and LEDs. Be careful to choose a compatible one for replacement.

5- Harp

The harp is a metal frame that has a threaded rod running through it. It’s used to provide vertical support to the lampshade’s attachment to the lamp and also comes in a variety of harp types. Sometimes, it may be complicated to add a harp to a lamp.

6- Socket Shell

Most commonly made from brass, plastic, and porcelain, the socket shell is the outer casing of the socket. Its main function is to protect the internal components of the lamp socket.

7- Insulation Sleeve

This small piece of paper, fabric, or plastic going around the bulb socket serves as a safeguard to protect the lamp’s electrical wiring from high temperatures and abrasion. Missing insulation sleeves can lead to overheating wiring.

8- Socket

The lamp socket, usually made from porcelain and brass, provides space for the light bulb to fit into its place in the lamp. Light bulb type must be compatible with socket type to perform its function. It is not too difficult to replace a lamp socket.

9- Switch

The switch is used to activate or disconnect the electricity current to run through the lamp in two states on and off. Common switch types are turn knob, push-through, pull chain, and three-way. Fixing a lamp switch is a straightforward task.

10- Socket Base

Used to form a sturdy finish for a lamp socket, a socket base is screwed into matching threaded sockets and holds the socket in place. The socket base is mainly made from plastic or brass.

11- Harp Holder

Combine with a harp to hold the shade and the bulb vertically. The harp holder is a small metal bracket that attaches to the base of the lamp. It holds the harp in place and helps to keep it from moving around.

12- Threaded Tube

Most table lamp designs have a threaded tube between the lamp holder and body that houses the switch, socket, and wiring. Moreover, the threaded tube maintains a stable connection between the upper and the lower part of the lamp through the body.

13- Body

Covering the threaded tube and staying in the middle of the lamp, the body can affect the look of the lamp through its design, shape, and material. The body is also a key factor defining the lamp size, consider choosing the perfect table lamp size.

14- Plug

The plug is an end of the lamp cord that connects and allows electrical current to run into the lamp to activate the light bulb via the electrical cord. It’s not too hard to install or replace a plug on a lamp.

15- Base

Table lamp bases are made from various materials such as ceramic, glass, or metal. However, they must all be sturdy enough to ensure stability, which differentiates table lamps from accent lamps.

16- Tube Knot

A tube knot is a type of connector, used to lock the base to the threaded tube to ensure firm connections. Tube knot’s material can be plastic or metal. Not all table lamp types have a tube knot.

17- Anti-slip

As the name refers, anti-slip strengthens the stability of a lamp by providing a non-slip surface at the lowest beneath the lamp’s base. It is usually made from felt or rubber.

In general, a table lamp may have these 17 parts but may differ by adding some parts to create the desired aesthetic appearance. How a table lamp can transform into various looks: 50+ Creative Table Lamp Design Ideas.

Desk Lamp Parts Diagram

Although not all desk lamp types are the same, desk lamps feature some special parts and main components in the structure that serve their function.

1- Shade Cap

Similar to a table lamp lock, a desk lamp shade cap is used to secure the connection between the shade, the wiring, and the lower parts. Shade caps also can complete the lighting fixture's aesthetics.

2- Shade

Desk lampshades provide glare-free illumination to protect the eyes by softening and directing the lighting where needed. The most popular material for lampshades is metal.

3- Lamp Holder

Providing support to the bulb’s connection with the lampshade and the wiring by holding, a lamp holder also contributes to the stable performance of the bulb. Lamp holders offer various types of holders.

4- Sidearm

Sidearms commonly made of wood, metal, or ceramic, are placed at the middle and front of the lamp stem, and connect the upper parts to the downside parts. Smaller in dimension than the back arm.

5- Linkage Bar

The linkage bar connects the sidearm and the back arm to form the simplest movable closed-chain linkage. Linkage bar is usually made from wood or metal.

6- Spring

Spring is such a dispensable part of adjustable desk lamps hence it enables the adjustable ability to reach a suitable height of the desk lamps, and maintain the balance of the lamp when adjusting.

7- Fork Block

The fork block strengthens the connection of the lamp stem and the lamp base, maintaining the balance of the lamp for adjustment.

8- Base

Bases keep the lampstand steady on the place's surface and prevent the lamp from falling due to accidental issues while affecting the style and aesthetic of a desk lamp.

9- Bridle

Serves as a connector and bracket for mounting the lampshade to the top arm. The most common materials bridles can be found are metal and wood.

10- Grub Screw

Lying on the top arm, the grub screw is used to help the lamp cord fit firmly along the arm. Grub screws are mostly found that are made of metal and plastic.

11- Top Arm

Indicating the upper part of the lamp body, the top arm holds the shade and connects the shade with the lower arm. Top arm’s length is a direct factor influencing the total height of lamps. You can also make a non-adjustable desk lamp taller by 14 ways to make a lamp taller.

12- Large Elbow Joint

The large elbow joint is obviously made from metal, it should be hard enough to connect and fix the top arm to the lower arms securely while supporting the adjustable ability.

13- Small Elbow Joint

Similar to large elbow joints but smaller in size, the small elbow joint corporates and serves the same function as large elbow joints that connect and fix the top arm to the lower arms, allowing lamp height adjustment.

14- Back Arm

Place at the middle and backward of the lamp stem, and connect the upper parts to the downside parts. The back arm should be larger in dimension compared to the side arms.

15- Adjuster Wheel

This part allows you to change the height and curve of the lamp. Adjuster wheels are such a wonderful element that help you put the lamp on a different surface, or if you need to adjust it for your own height.

16- Spring Bar

A spring bar is a metal bar laying horizontally below springs and above fork blocks, aiming to ensure a firm structure of the base.

17- Grub Screw for Base

Like the grub screw for the top arm but the grub screw for the base’s responsibility is to firm the base by joining or clamping parts components together and tightening the lamp stem to the base.

18- Switch

The essential function of the switch is to control the electrical flow to move through the lamp cords by turning the light button on and off. Switches are generally built into the lamp or on the lamp cord.

Table lamps and desk lamps have a lot in common, hope you guys reading to this can now distinguish table lamps and desk lamps effortlessly.

Floor Lamp Parts Diagram

In general, floor lamps are extremely higher than other lamp types and common parts can be found in their structure are:

• Bulb: Generate illumination, which is the main function of the lamp
• Plug: Connect the lamp to the electrical outlet
• Switch: Control lighting fixture in two states on and off
• Power Cord: Transmit electricity to power the light bulb
• Body: Include two parts: tube and pipe, provide the height and play an important role in the overall appearance of the lamp
• Base: Commonly heavier and wider than other lamp types' bases to keep floor lamps upright and stable

But, each type of floor lamp features some unique characteristics in the structure, such as:

Torchiere Floor Lamps 

Torchiere Floor Lamps are famous for their shape which looks like a candelabrum or a torch, consist of the following parts:

1- Torchiere Shade

Perform a unique characteristic appearance of the Torchiere lamp, Torchiere shades are made from stained glass, glass, ceramic, and porcelain, and they can create diffused illumination with many lighting effects.

2- Holder

The holder clamps and keeps the lampshade place steadily in its place. To accommodate the large, unique shape of torchiere shades, the Torchiere lamp holders are specifically flared like a funnel.

3- Mogul Socket

Mogul sockets are compatible with E39 size of socket, featuring porcelain mogul base sockets which are heat-resistant, durable, and compatible with fluorescent or incandescent bulbs.

4- Tube

Commonly made from brass, long and smooth in shape, the tube is used to hide threaded rods (pipe) and wiring and support the weight and height of a Torchiere lamp. Tubes usually have no threading.

5- Pipe

Contrary to the tube, the pipe is referred to as a threaded rod, which means it has threading on the inside or outside with a 1/4IP-size hole. Acting as a spine or stem of the lamp, the pipe connects lamp parts and also serves some visual appeal.

6- Column

The column holds the pipe and the tube tightly, strengthening the lamp structure, especially the upper parts. It also has unique curves and shapes, giving the lamp an architectural vibe.

7- Base

Due to its slender and tall shape, the torchiere base is normally larger and weightier than other lamp bases to provide extra support. Ensure stability and enhance the aesthetic of the lamp.

Reflector Floor Lamp

Featured by reflectors instead of lampshades, reflector floor lamps emit direct light rays that bounce upward to the ceiling or in a specific direction.

1- Reflector

The reflector shape is like a funnel (dome-like or parabolic), designed upward to gather and redirect the light emitted by the bulb to create desired light beam direction and light dispersion patterns. It is made from polished metal or other reflective surfaces.

2- Holder

The shape of a reflector holder is quite similar to a Torchiere holder, a funnel but smaller in dimension due to the reflector being usually lighter than Torchiere shades. The holder ensures the reflector firmly stays in place.

3- Socket

Made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, the socket provides spaces for bulbs to screw into. The most popular socket type of reflector floor lamp is E27.

4- Cluster Body

Wiring sockets together to form the structural integrity of the lamp assembly, the cluster body aims to hang more than a lamp on the lighting fixture.

5- Switch

Commonly attached inside the lamp socket, the switch controls the electronic current through the button that is available in two states on or off.

6- Tube

The tube of a reflector floor lamp is a single clean pole made out of metal (aluminum, stainless steel, brass), wood, or occasionally plastic. The tube supports the vertical structure, conceals wiring, and contributes significantly to lamps.

7- Pipe

Similar to the tube, but the pipe is sturdier or thicker, its functionalities are holding upper parts, maintaining a streamlined appearance, contributing to the overall lamp’s aesthetic, and conducting electrical wiring.

8- Column

The column is the backbone of the reflector floor lamp that provides structural stability by holding the lamp head securely and houses the electrical wiring for safety and a clean design. It also affects the overall design.

9- Break

It’s usually made out of metal or plastic, the break is secured or loosened for installing or removing the top pole from the bottom pole to adjust the height of the floor lamp.

10- Base

Stay at the lowest of the lamp, and be responsible for keeping the lamp securely upright and preventing the lamp from tipping over. The reflector lamp bases are often made of metal, stone, or weighted plastic.

Bridge Floor Lamps

Bridge floor lamps have a unique distinctive design that is the bridge, designed to light up the floor or a small side table.

1- Shade

The shade serves both functional and decorative purposes and reduces harshness by influencing the direction and diffusion of light while complementing the lamp's overall design. The shade’s size should balance with the bridge arm and base.

2- Uno Thread Socket

The uno thread socket is especially used for downward-facing or angled bulb placements typically seen in bridge lamps. It supports the bridge lamp’s design by securely holding the shade in an inverted position.

3- Swivel

Located at the joint between the bridge arm and the body or the shade, the swivel enables customizable light direction by adjusting the bridge arm horizontally or vertically for various tasks like reading, accent lighting, or general illumination.

4- Bridge Arm

The bridge arm is a unique feature that distinguishes bridge floor lamps from other floor lamps. The horizontal or angled arm extends outward from the main vertical body to hold the lamp head securely while creating a balanced aesthetic.

5- Upper Husk

Serving as the connection piece between the lamp body and the bridge arm, and as a focal point in the lamp’s design, the upper husk plays both a structural and aesthetic role in the lamp's design.

6- Pipe

Typically terminating in the upper husk, this element connects the lamp's base to the upper components and provides the structural foundation for the bridge arm and lamp head.

7- Tube

Contrary to pipe, the tube is hollow but serves the same function of supporting vertical structure, concealing the electrical wiring, and adjusting lamp height. The material of the tube is diverse and you can also make a floor lamp from driftwood.

8- Break

Located along the vertical column between the tube and the pipe of the lamp, the break divides the column into sections. Acting as a decoration element and as an adjustment point.

9- Husk

The husk is usually made out of metal or plastic, attaches the lamp body to the base, and secures the connection. The husk is also used á a decorative element that complements the sleek and elegant look of a lamp.

10- Seating Ring

The seating ring made out of metal or plastic, is the lamp part that sits on the base’s surface and can be used to lock the upper lamp parts to the base firmly or adjust the height of the lamp.

11- Base

Acting as the foundation that supports stability, the base of a bridge floor lamp must be heavy and sturdy enough to balance this extended structure. It also plays a crucial role in enhancing aesthetic appeal.

12- Loader

Because the shape of this lamp type gives it unstable standing, the loader screwing onto the bottom of the lamp supports the stability of bridge floor lamps by adding weight to the base. It’s also used to adjust the height of the lamp.

Ceiling Lamp Parts Diagram

As the name suggests, ceiling lamps indicate the lamps that are hung on the ceiling to provide enough illumination for large areas. So, ceiling light fixtures contain some parts that support and secure the connection between the lamp and the ceiling as well as the lamp parts.

1- Outlet Box

Also known as a junction box or electrical box, this part provides a grounding point for the fixture, and contains and protects wire connections from overheating and the risk of electrical fire, maintaining a safe installation of ceiling-mounted light fixtures. 

2- Mounting Strap

Creating a sturdy foundation to support the lamp’s weight and help align the fixture correctly, the ceiling lamp mounting strap is a critical part of ensuring that the light fixture is securely fastened to the ceiling.

3- Fixture Canopy

The fixture canopy performs as a cover or a shield that conceals electrical wiring, hardware, and electrical components to create a clean, finished look, giving the lamp both aesthetic appeal and safety.

4- Bolt Nut

The bolt nut plays a vital role in supporting the weight and remaining stability of the fixture hence it secures the joint of the lighting fixture and the ceiling by fastening the lamp on the mounting strap.

5- Loop

A ceiling lamp loop is a small hardware component used in the installation of ceiling-mounted light fixtures to provide a better loop impedance and maintain a balanced position.

6- Hook

The primary function of the hook is to provide a sturdy point from which the light fixture can be suspended. The hook works with the loop so that the ceiling lamp is securely hung down from the ceiling.

7- Chain/ Rod/ Pipe/ Cable

This part is used to hang the lamp from the ceiling and define the style and function of the lamp. Depending on the design, a ceiling lamp may combine chain, rod, pipe, and cable to form a lamp body.

• The chain is sturdy and suitable for heavy lighting fixtures and allows easy length adjustment by removing or adding chain links. 
• The rod brings a sleek, clean, and modern look, but it’s less adjustable than a chain. 
• The pipe provides an extremely strong connection and is suitable for large or heavy lighting fixtures.
• The cable is not as strong as the others so it best suits smaller or lightweight ceiling lamps. It’s also very flexible.

8- Bracket/ Holder

A ceiling lamp bracket is a critical component used to hold the lampshade and provide space for a lamp socket. The bracket can be made from wood, ceramic, porcelain, and metal.

9- Set Screw

A ceiling lamp set screw is a small screw designed to join the connection between the lamp bracket and lampshade and attach the lampshade tightly. It prevents the lampshade from wobbling or shifting and maintains the fixture's safety and stability.

10- Socket

Provide space to insert and secure the bulb, allow electricity current to run through, and activate the light source. Choosing the right socket is essential for safety, functionality, and compatibility.

11- Bulb

Emits light when electrical current passes through it, compatible with a wide range of bulb types, including halogen, incandescent, fluorescent, and LED. 

12- Lampshade

Create the desired lighting effect, and define the overall style of the lamp by its look. Like other lamp types, the ceiling lampshade is made from many materials and is available in a wide range of styles and designs.

13- Other Special Parts

Support the lamp’s performance to meet specific lighting needs

• Ballast: Protect lamps from the circuit and burning out, and manage the suitable voltage needed for the bulb to act.
• Reflector: Direct and focus light to the desired area, especially for spotlights.
• LED Drivers: Ensures our LED lights function well and last longer.
• Lens: Soften and sharpen illumination by changing the direction to focus and spread light, reduce glare, and provide enough lighting needed for a big area.

Wall Lamp Parts Diagram

Wall lamps are hung on the wall to provide an inviting and warming atmosphere to the space. Wall lamps have a simpler structure than other lamp types.

1- Backplate

Play a role as a lamp base, attach the lamp to the wall instead of placing it on the ground, and protect the wires or configurations of lamps.

2- Arm

The arm or body of a wall lamp can be made from many materials with different shapes, diverse in many styles and designs, determining the style of the lamp. It is also an important connection point between the lampshade and the back plate.

3- Holder

Like other lamp-type holders, the sconce holder is utilized to provide spaces for bulbs to screw into and is as a bridge connecting the shade to the arm.

4- Shade

Sconce shade is made from wood, silk, paper, or metal. It is used to direct and ease the light and create the desired lighting effect. Some sconces don’t have shade.

Conclusion

Hope the information provided above about the lamp parts diagram can help you identify the key parts of a lamp and apply the knowledge to solve any problems present. Your lamps may have some different parts in structure but this article provides the overview of structures that can be used to adapt and fit your specific lamp.