Standard Halide fixtures vs "aquarium" fixtures?

I know standard or industrial metal halide fixtures come with different K rated bulbs than aquarium ones do but is there anything different about the fixture itself? Seems like you could save a lot of money buying a regular fixture then just putting an aquarium bulb in it.

Is there something I'm missing?

 

I am just guessing, but maybe the reflectors of commercial halides aren't as high quality as aquarium ones

 

The price?
Pendants are probably similar.
Fixtures are probably the distinction as aquarium halide fixtures often have supplemental actinic lighting and/or moonlights in them.

 

The most important difference I have seen is that most industrial fixtures tend to be made using steel housings, screws and other parts. These parts are guaranteed to rust out in a salt water environment.

As for reflector differences, aquarium reflectors may be more focused as industrial fixture may be designed to disperse the light much more.

Higher grade aquarium fixtures will also use far more reflective aluminum.

 

Ah.. didn't think of that. Good points Greg.

 

Most hanging wall industrial metal halide fixtures use the aluminum alloy housing to disipate heat, have heat sink fins and use a hammertone internal reflector. imo, ok to use, but with one exception to those os aquatics, industrial fixtures are HUGE. But, take em apart and do the DYI thing to them.

 

Thats a good idea, could make up my own set up pretty easily. Pretty mechanical person and not bad with wiring.