Smoke from a projector

[SteveB_NI]

Had a call to a room where the data projector had smoke coming out of it! It was at the end of the day, so I'm assuming the projector had been on throughout the day (at least!).

 

From looking at the projector unit, the bulb casing is showing signs of plastic melting, so this would lead me to think this is what was causing the smoke. However, whilst I have replacement lamps for this projector model I'm seriously concerned about leaving this back into a classroom.

 

So question is - is it common (in anyone's experience) for projector bulbs to overheat, but not be the actual projector at fault?

[simonw]

Was the unit dusty, or the dust filter blocked?

[FN-GM]

I would follow your gut and get rid of it and replace with new. It could be a H&S risk. Projectors have burnt down schools in the past. If it goes back into service and something does happen in the future you're neck might be on the block.

 

Better to be safe than sorry.

Edited March 6, 2019 by FN-GM

[noelmm]

The fact that you're concerned about putting the projector back into a room tells you everything you need to know.

 

In my mind it doesn't matter what caused the problem only that you no longer trust the use of the device from a safety point of view. I would not put it back into use anywhere until I knew 100% that there is no fault, this goes for any machine I take out of service due to faults.

[Fazza]

The fact that you're concerned about putting the projector back into a room tells you everything you need to know.

 

Exactly! Go with your gut feeling as it's based on your experience in doing your job.

[SteveB_NI]

Cheers everyone. I have already replaced the projector this morning from our spare stock, so teacher happy. Projector had been here since May 2013 and had been on it's 2nd bulb, so owes us nothing.