There are several versions of this lamp which include the FBO32T8, FB40T12 and the FBO31T8.  They all have different advantages, but they are all the Curvalume family.  These are sometimes called U6 bulbs by the distance between the legs of the lamp, which is 6 inches with the exception of the 31 watt.  Like most fluorescents, FB40T12 super saver fluorescent light bulbs are a great way to save energy over standard u-shaped light bulbs.  Compared to it's less efficient counterpart, the FB40T12, the FB40T12 super saver u-shaped is definitely an improvement which will save you money in the long run.  They operate on 34 watts instead of the standard 40 watt version.  There are many people changing these out to a FBO32T8 which is even more energy efficient.

Sylvania developed the FBO32T8 Curvalume fluorescent light bulbs for a variety of lighting applications. Compared to it's less efficient counterpart, the FB40T12, the Sylvania Curvalume FBO32T8 u-bent is definitely an improvement which will save you money in the long run. Of course, the ballast would need to be changed to an electronic ballast, but the socket configuration is identical. You can tell the difference between a T12 and a T8 by measuring the diameter of the bulb. The spacing between each end of the u-bend tube is 6 inches regardless of whether it's T12 or T8.  The old technology T12 is the standard cool white or warm white lamp that's been used in offices throughout the world and the logical energy saving replacement would be the 3500K or 4100K FBO32T8 lamp.  As with all fluorescent bulbs, they rely on ballasts inside of the fixtures in order to make them work. The ballast is important because it is specific for each type of lamp.  You can't change from one type of fluorescent to another without changing the ballast in most cases.  On some occasions there may be a ballast that is made for several different types such as in the case of T8 lamps.

Because it's still very pervasive in many office environments across the country, we make the Curvalume fluorescent light bulbs a substantial part of our offering. There will probably never be a time when these will not be in use. Remember that there are many types of fluorescent lighting, we describe some of the most common used in commercial lighting here.  Whatever type of fluorescent you choose or have, you will be saving energy while getting the most light you can for your money.  We have a large inventory of fluorescent bulbs for nearly every type of light fixture in the field.  If you need help identifying a light bulb, our customer service representatives can help you determine what you have.