Tips for Lighting Products in Low Temperature Environments

Usually the biggest problem with low temperatures is not that the driver does not start work, but that the constant hot and cold cycles cause components that are not well soldered to come loose. In addition, it is also a major challenge for the wire and PC materials, as low temperatures can make these materials brittle. If the luminaire is installed in an area where it will move, the wire is likely to break easily.

These are also why it requires rigorous verification of the product's ability to withstand high and low temperature cycles during our new product development process.

When we come across a project in a low temperature environment, we need to find out if the luminaire is working 24 hours a day or not.

1, If it is a 24-hour operation, the concern at this time is whether the lamp can be started. Drivers have electrolytic capacitor type components inside and low temperatures can have a big impact on such devices. Many electrolytic capacitors are liquid inside and once they freeze they lose their charging and discharging effect. In this environment, the luminaire will generate temperature as soon as it can be started, even if it is -40°, the lifespan is not a big problem.

2, If it does not work 24 hours a day and requires repeated switching on and off, the concern at this time is the frequent thermal expansion and contraction resulting in loose component solder joints, causing the luminaire to flicker and light off such problems.

For the cold storage environment, in terms of material selection, we have found a power supply suitable for low temperatures up to -55°C. As for the light source, it is definitely a more guaranteed light source from Nichia. Glass is more weather resistant than PC and is recommended for low temperature applications.

In order to circumvent the adverse effects of repeated switching, it is better not to turn off the lights if possible. Or it is recommended to adjust to 10% brightness instead of turning off the lights, so that the lamps continue to generate heat and are estimated to last a lifetime.