Constant Light Output (CLO) is a technology used in LED lighting and other lighting systems to ensure that the light output remains constant throughout the lamp's lifespan. This is important because the brightness of traditional lighting, such as incandescent and halogen bulbs, decreases over time. While LED lamps also gradually decrease in light output as they age, CLO minimizes this effect.
How does CLO work?
CLO works by slowly adjusting the current flowing through the LED over the lamp's lifespan. As the LED ages and its efficiency decreases (due to heat buildup, for example), the lamp's control system automatically increases the current to maintain the original light output. This ensures that the lamp provides a constant amount of light over time, instead of gradually decreasing in intensity.
Benefits of CLO
- Stable light quality : CLO ensures that the light intensity remains constant, which is important for applications where uniformity in lighting is required, such as in commercial environments, museums or healthcare facilities.
- Longer lifespan : Instead of an LED rapidly losing light output, CLO ensures that light output remains consistent throughout the lamp's lifespan. This makes it ideal for applications where replacement and maintenance are difficult or expensive.
- Better energy efficiency : By gradually increasing current instead of creating sudden spikes, CLO can help maintain energy efficiency without affecting the lamp's performance over time.
- Support for critical applications : CLO is useful in situations where constant and reliable light output is required, such as in workshops, hospitals, factories or other professional environments where fluctuations in light intensity can be undesirable.
- Increased customer satisfaction : In commercial and industrial lighting, customers who use the lighting for a long period of time can benefit from a long-term, consistent light output, contributing to a more consistent experience and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Applications of CLO
CLO is often used in applications where constant light output is important, such as:
- Office Lighting : Especially in environments where it is important that lighting remains consistent for employee productivity and comfort.
- Commercial lighting : In shopping centres, museums, showrooms or supermarkets, where constant lighting is required to illuminate the products evenly.
- Industrial lighting : In warehouses or factories, where long-term lighting is necessary without loss of light intensity.
- Healthcare facilities : In hospitals or healthcare facilities it is important that the lighting remains the same to ensure a comfortable and safe environment.
Summary
Constant Light Output (CLO) is a technology that ensures consistent light output throughout the entire life of a lamp, especially for LED lighting. This prevents the decrease in light output over time, which is typical of traditional lighting. CLO is particularly useful in environments where constant lighting is required for safety, efficiency, and comfort.