Think LED lighting is complicated? Think again.
Everyone is talking about LED technology as people begin to understand the long list of benefits associated with this environmentally-friendly light source and the quickly growing worldwide campaign to be “green.”
What was once used as an indicator light in watches, calculators and electronic devices is now lighting up entire buildings and façades and creating phenomenal effects at concerts and events (as seen during the recent opening ceremonies of the 2008 Summer Olympics). Over the years, LED technology has mainly been used for these types of single color and multi color-changing applications. As the technology continues to advance however, there is great opportunity to apply the benefits of LEDs to general illumination applications that will change light as we know it today.
Benefits of LED technology
LEDs have numerous benefits that make them an ideal choice for many common applications, but how do these benefits translate into a better choice for you and your customers?
Energy efficiency
LED sources can be 5 times more efficient than incandescent and most halogen sources and are quickly gaining ground on fluorescent.
TIPS : Using energy efficient sources not only translates into energy savings, but is also becoming increasingly important as legislation and new regulatory requirements limit energy use in new construction and renovation. The use of LED fixtures can help facilitate compliance with today’s standards and regulations.
Environmentally safe
Standard fluorescent and compact fluorescent sources contain mercury and therefore may require special handling for disposal and/or recycling and also contribute to hazardous waste. In contrast, LED sources are mercury-free.
TIPS : Because LED sources are mercury-free they are safe for the environment and do not pose recycling challenges like fluorescent sources do.
Long lifetime
LED sources can have lifetimes significantly longer than traditional technologies.
TIPS : Long lifetime means less replacement and maintenance requirements which can result in significant cost savings.
No emitted infrared or ultraviolet radiation
LEDs provide illumination without emitting harmful infrared or ultraviolet radiation.
TIPS : Use LED fixtures in heat sensitive areas, near people, and tight spaces where conventional light sources could be dangerous or potentially damaging. The ultraviolet radiation emitted from fluorescent sources can degrade materials like plastic and fabrics as well as fade paint and dyes-therefore, LED fixtures are ideal to use in retail displays and in places like museums or art galleries to protect the quality and aesthetics of the illuminated object.
Durability
LED sources are very durable and can withstand impact, vibration and other disruptions.
TIPS : This durability makes LED sources ideal for extreme environments, areas susceptible to high vibration and other environments where it may be difficult to install and maintain traditional light sources.
Note : All these are taken from "Think LED lighting is complicated? Think again. - A guide to understanding the basics of LED technology by Philips"
