GU10 light blew up on me last night - literally - pics

[FiscoKing]

Was working at my desk last night; had the desk lamp turned to face the ceiling so the light was more diffused.

After about 20 minutes - BANG. Flying glass all over the place. Blew out the bulb and glass front cover.

Luckily, the lamp was behind my computer, so I didn't get glass on me, but the glass burnt the desk.

The GU10 lamp (50W) came as a freebie in a down lighter and is the kind that has a glass cover on the front to stop you touching the bulb inside. I've found the freebie GU10's only last about 3 months, so I've taken them all out and replaced them with 5000 Hr equiv. I use the big bag of GU10 leftovers in desk lamps because they're easier to change (got tired of moving ladders all over the house to reach the ceiling lights).

I understand that bulbs can go bang, but I thought the glass front cover was meant to stop glass flying around?

What could have caused this?

Nothing was covering the bulb, and there didn't appear to be any electrical surge before hand (I had other lights on).

I thought Gu10's could be used in any position? Or have the Chinese now developed a bulb that can only be used pointing down?

 

[gman76]

Blimey! Imagine the damage that could be done if a piece landed on soft furnishings, yourself or indeed an eye!

 

[jj4091]

I have seen this before, in a childs bedroom, suppliers/manufacturers were very quick to offer compensation for damaged soft furnishings. Luckily nobody was injured in this case. I am sure your photos will bring a rapid response to your request for similar recompense. They should be safe to use in any position especially when fitted to a movable lamp.