metal halide nipple orientation and loose sockets

[fungia]

i did a search on this and there seems to be a lot of opinions if it matters. anyhow, if i want to make all my bulb nipples point up, my right bulb will have to be a little loose in the socket because it wont be screwed all the way in. do you think this is okay?

 

[minibowmatt]

IMO, No... that can potentially cause arcing between the socket and bulb electrode--- FIRE HAZARD!!!

 

[jdeets]

Screw it in all the way. Any difference in light output based on nipple orientation would be miniscule anyway. IMO you are much better off worrying about which reflectors to use than worrying about which way the nipple is pointing.

 

[Len]

I've actually found the spectral output of some bulbs to differ A LOT depending on the orientation. The Aquaconnects, for instance, is significantly more purple when the bulb faces one way and more blue when it faces the other way. Frustrating

 

[Simon1]

I think about my sixth grade teacher to make my bulb's nipple point up... 8)

 

[FragMaster]

I've actually found the spectral output of some bulbs to differ A LOT depending on the orientation. The Aquaconnects, for instance, is significantly more purple when the bulb faces one way and more blue when it faces the other way. Frustrating

Same here.
I always adjust my socket in the bracket ( on moguls) to face the imperfection towards the reflector, or to face it so as to achieve the "perfect" color LOL!!. I just drill out two slots in a cresent shape.