Fixed LEDs in lamps- how long do they last?

The lifespan of LEDs: comparison and progress

The lifespan of LEDs is generally given in operating hours, which is a common method for determining the durability of lamps. LEDs are known for keeping significantly longer than conventional glow or halogen lamps.

Manufacturers typically indicate a lifespan of around 20,000 to 50,000 hours. These impressive numbers are the result of technological progress that have been made in LED development. In order to understand the importance of these operating hours in an everyday context, it is easy to

Make calculation example: one LED lamp, which is used on average 3 hours a day would last about 18 years with a lifespan of 20,000 hours. If the same lamp is operated for 50,000 hours, it could last up to 45 years. This is an enormous advantage over conventional Incandescent lamps , which only last about 1,000 hours and halogen lamps that last about 2,000 to 4,000 hours.

Comparison with conventional lamps

The long service life of LEDs makes a significant contribution to increasingly glowing and Halogen lamps substitute. While a conventional incandescent lamp burns through relatively quickly and has to be replaced frequently, the use of LEDs significantly reduces the maintenance effort. This reduction in the frequency of exchange is not only practical, but also saves costs in the long run.

Technological progress and efficiency

The impressive lifespan of LEDs is the result of numerous technological progress. LEDs use semiconductor technology that enables more efficient conversion of electricity into light compared to the traditional methods of Light emission at light bulbs. While a light bulb generates light due to the heating effect of a tungsten thread and loses a lot of energy as heat, LEDs work cooler and more efficiently.

Long -term reliability

In addition to the long service life, LEDs also offer constant light quality over their entire operating time. With many conventional lamps, the Light output Over time, whereas LEDs tend to keep their brightness constant over a long period of time.

The failure rate for LEDs is also lower, which makes it a reliable choice for applications in which continuous lighting is crucial, such as in industrial environments or public institutions.

Economic and ecological advantages

The long lifespan of LEDs not only brings economic advantages through reduced maintenance and exchanging costs, but also ecological advantages. Less frequent exchanges mean less waste and lower resource consumption. This makes LEDs a more environmentally friendly option that can contribute to a sustainable lighting strategy.

"To extend the lifespan of LEDs, make sure that they are not overheated. LEDs are sensitive to heat and high temperatures can drastically reduce their lifespan. It is therefore important that the LEDs are properly cooled, e.g. by using heat sorts or fans."

Degradation of LEDs: causes, effects and countermeasures

Degradation is a term that is used in many technical and scientific areas and generally describes the process of deterioration or gradual degradation of material properties, performance or efficiency. 

In terms of LED technology, refers to Degradation to reduce light output and efficiency of LEDs over time. This process is inevitable, but its speed and extent can be influenced by various factors.

Degradation with LEDs

In the case of LEDs, degradation mainly occurs in the form of a decrease in the light output. This acceptance is often Maintenance of light flow Or called lumen-maintenance and is expressed in percent of the original light output. A typical degradation value could, for example, be 70% of the original brightness after 50,000 operating hours, often specified as L70. This means that the LED still delivers 70% of its original brightness after this operation.

Causes of the degradation

1. Thermal load: Excessive heat is one of the main reasons for the degradation of LEDs. Although LEDs are more efficient than traditional lamps, they nevertheless generate heat that has to be removed. A poor heat dissipation can lead to overheating, which damages the LED materials and reduces the light output.
2. Electrical load: Strong or fluctuating current loads can affect the lifespan and efficiency of LEDs. A constant and stable power supply is crucial for minimizing the degradation.
3. Ambient conditions: Moisture, extreme temperatures and chemical influences can attack the materials of the LED and the associated components and lead to faster degradation.
4. Material quality: The quality of the materials used has a significant impact on the degradation rate. High -quality LEDs with robust materials usually show slower degradation compared to inferior products.

Effects of the degradation 

The degradation of LEDs has a direct impact on their performance and efficiency. With increasing degradation, not only does the brightness decrease, but color shifts can also occur that affect light quality. This can be particularly critical in applications in which constant lighting conditions are required, such as in industrial environments, medical facilities or art galleries.

Measures to reduce degradation

1. Good heat management: The implementation of effective cooling systems or techniques can keep the temperature of the LEDs low and thus slow down the degradation.
2. High -quality materials: The use of high -quality LEDs and components can significantly reduce the degradation rate.
3. Stable power supply: A constant and clean power supply prevents electrical overloads and protects the LED components.
4. Protection against environmental influences: Suitable housings and protective coatings can protect LEDs from harmful environmental influences and extend their lifespan.

Factors and methods for calculating the LED life of life

The lifespan of LEDs is usually specified in operating hours and describes the period in which the LED can maintain a certain performance or brightness. This calculation is based on several factors and tests that should ensure that the LEDs work reliably under real conditions. Here are the most important steps and factors that are taken into account when calculating the LED life:

1. Lumen Maintenance (maintenance of light flow): The lifespan of an LED is often defined as the time until the Light output has dropped to a certain percentage of the original value. Typical measured values ​​are:

1. L70: The time until the LED reaches 70% of its original light output.
2. L80: The time until the LED reaches 80% of its original light output.

For example, L70 = 50,000 hours means that the LED still offers 70% of its original brightness after 50,000 operating hours.

2. Test conditions: LEDs are tested under standardized conditions to obtain consistent and comparable results. These tests include:

1. Temperature: LEDs are tested at different temperatures to measure their performance under realistic operating conditions.
2. Operating current: The current with which the LEDs are operated is kept constant during the tests.
3. Amongitation conditions: Tests take into account environmental conditions such as moisture and air pressure.

3. Accelerated lifespan tests: Since it is impractical to test LEDs over their entire lifespan, accelerated tests are used. These tests increase the operating temperature and current to accelerate the aging process. The results of these tests are then extrapolated to estimate the lifespan under normal conditions.

4. Failure rate and reliability: In addition to the light output, the failure rate of the LEDs is also taken into account. This relates to the likelihood that an LED will be complete due to a technical defect. Statistical methods such as the female distribution are used to model the failure rate over time.

5. Manufacturer information and certifications: Manufacturers often indicate guaranteed lifespan based on their internal tests and models. Certifications of independent test institutes can offer additional security that the specified lifespan are reliable.

Example of a calculation 

An LED could be an LED at 25 ° C room temperature with an operating current of 350 MA Test and find that the LED still maintains 95% of its original brightness after 10,000 hours. 

With mathematical models and accelerated tests at higher temperatures, it could be specified that the LED still has 70% of its brightness under normal conditions (L70).

Influencing factors on the actual lifespan of LEDs

The actual lifespan of LEDs can be influenced by a variety of factors that go beyond the simple indication of the operating hours. Switch cycles, the number of operating hours and the ambient temperature play an important role here. These factors can significantly influence the performance and durability of LEDs and should be taken into account when choosing and installing LED lighting.

1.

Definition and influence: Switching cycles refer to the number of times that an LED is switched on and off. Each LED has a limited number of switching cycles that you can manage before your performance is affected.

Influence on the service life: Frequently switching on and off can lead to thermal tensions in the LED, as it heats up and cools every time. These thermal cycles can burden the internal components and lead to premature failure. LEDs are generally more robust compared to control cycles compared to conventional incandescent lamps. Nevertheless, an extremely frequent switch on and off, for example in applications such as Motion detectors Or flashing lights that shorten the service life.

Manufacturer: Many manufacturers state that their LEDs are designed for a certain number of switching cycles. This can range from a few thousand to several million cycles, depending on the quality and construction of the LED.

2. Number of operating hours

Definition and influence: The number of operating hours refers to the entire time that spends an LED when switched on. This is the primary factor that determines the lifespan of LEDs and is typically indicated by manufacturers.

Influence on the service life: The lifespan of an LED is often related to Lumen -Maintenance specified, e.g. L70 (the time until the LED reaches 70% of its original light output). A longer operating time means a higher cumulative burden on the LED components. LEDs that are constantly operated for longer periods of time generally show a longer lifespan compared to those that are often switched on and off.

Practical example: An LED that is operated on average 3 hours a day has a much longer expected lifespan than one that is in operation 24 hours a day. This means that the same LED lasts longer in a household than in an industrial application, where it may light up around the clock.

3.

Definition and influence: The ambient temperature is the temperature of the air around the LED during operation. LEDs are sensitive to high temperatures because they can directly influence the performance and service life.

Influence on the service life:

High temperatures: If LEDs are operated at high ambient temperatures, this can lead to overheating. Overheating accelerates the degradation of the LED materials and reduces the light output faster.

Low temperatures: Low temperatures are generally less harmful to LEDs and can even extend their lifespan. LEDs work more efficiently and with less heat development at cooler temperatures.

Heat management: Effective heat dissipation is crucial to maximize the lifespan of LEDs. This can be achieved by designing the LED light, heat sink and other passive or active cooling methods.

Manufacturer: Most manufacturers test their LEDs at standardized temperatures, typically 25 ° C. These tests provide basic data, but the actual lifespan can vary if the LEDs are operated in warmer or colder environments.

Reasons for LED failures and options for replacing LED lamps

LEDs can break, although they have a much longer lifespan compared to conventional glow and halogen lamps. Various factors can cause an LED to fail:

Overheating: One of the most common causes of the failure of LEDs is overheating. If the heat is not dissolved effectively, the internal components of the LED can be damaged. This can be caused by inadequate heat management, lack of ventilation or high ambient temperatures.

Electrical overload: Tension tips or power fluctuations can damage the electronic components of the LED. This can be caused by incorrect power supplies, improper wiring or electrical disorders in the power grid.

Quality problems: Inferior LEDs or poor workmanship can also lead to early failure. High quality LEDs from renowned manufacturers usually have a longer lifespan and are less susceptible to defects.

Mechanical damage: Physical influences such as bumps, vibrations or improper handling can damage LEDs. The connections and soldering points within the LED are particularly sensitive.

Degradation: Even if LEDs work reliably over long periods of time, they are still subject to a natural aging process. The light output gradually decreases and color changes can occur. Over time, this can cause the LED to be considered "broken" even if it still works.

Can you replace LED lamps? 

Whether and how LED lamps can be replaced depends on the construction of the lamp and the type of LED. There are basically two main types of LED lamps: interchangeable LED lamps and firmly installed LED lights.

Interchangeable LED lamps

1. Simple exchange: Many LED lamps are designed so that they can replace conventional glow or halogen lamps directly. These LEDs have standardized base (e.g. E27, GU10) and can simply be replaced by screwing them into the existing version or inserting them.
2. Advantages: The exchange is simple and does not require any special tools or specialist knowledge. In addition, defects or outdated LEDs can be replaced quickly and inexpensively.

Fixed LED lights

1. Complexity: In the case of fixed LEDs, the exchange is usually more difficult because the LEDs are integrated into the lamp. This often means that the entire lamp must be replaced when the LEDs fail.
2. Advantages: Fixed LEDs enable more compact and more efficient designs. They often offer better heat dissipation and longer lifespan because they are specially optimized for the respective light.

Five tips for extending the lifespan of your LED lamps

1. Care for good heat dissipation

Why important: overheating is one of the main causes for early failure of LEDs. Effective heat dissipation can keep the temperature of the LED lamps low and extend their lifespan.

How to implement: Use luminaires that have been specially developed for LEDs and have good heat sink or ventilation systems. Make sure that the LED lamps are installed in well-ventilated areas to facilitate heat removal. Clean dust and dirt regularly from the heat sinks and ventilation slots to obtain the efficiency of the heat dissipation.

2. Ensure stable power supply

Why important: tension fluctuations and electrical overloads can damage the internal components of the LEDs and shorten their lifespan.

How to implement: Use LED compatible dimmer that ensure an even power supply and do not affect the lifespan of the LEDs. Install overvoltage protection devices to protect the LEDs from sudden tension tips. Make sure that the electrical installations in your home or operation are properly and safe.

3. Avoid frequent switching on and off

Why important: every time an LED is switched on or off, it is exposed to thermal tensions that can affect its lifespan.

How to implement: Avoid switching on and off LEDs unnecessarily frequently. Let them switch on if you only leave the room briefly. Use motion detectors and timers to optimize the on and off of the LEDs and reduce the number of switching cycles. LEDs, which are designed for many switching cycles, select LEDs for areas in which frequent on and off is inevitable.

4. Take into account ambient conditions

Why important: extreme temperatures, high humidity and aggressive ambient conditions can affect the performance and lifespan of LEDs.

How to implement: Install LEDs in environments that are within the manufacturer's recommended temperature range. Avoid using LEDs in damp or corrosive environments, unless they are specially designed for this (e.g. IP-protected LEDs for Outdoor areas ). Sagittarius LEDs from direct sunlight and other extreme weather influences.

5. Choose high quality LEDs and accessories

Why important: high -quality LEDs and components usually offer better performance and longer lifespan.

How to implement: Invest in LEDs from renowned manufacturers who are known for their quality and reliability. Pay attention to certification and seal of approval that confirm the quality and lifespan of the LEDs. Use only compatible power supplies and drivers that are specially designed for the respective LEDs.

Conclusion - that's how you do everything!

The lifespan of LED lamps can be significantly extended by simple measures. Good heat dissipation, stable power supply, avoiding frequent switching cycles, suitable environmental conditions and the selection of high -quality products are crucial. By observing these tips, you benefit from a long-lasting, efficient and reliable LED lighting that saves costs in the long term and protects the environment

If you are still undecided, how you want to implement the lighting, please make an appointment with the Light planner from skapetze®, To a personal advice and the development of a individual lighting concept to take advantage of.

You are also welcome to us on site in Simbach am Inn Light studio visit come.

If you already have a concrete idea what the lights should look like in your home, we can help you to implement this idea into reality - ours in -house workshop makes it possible.