The Light Center Length (LCL) is the distance from the center of the light source to the base of the lamp . This is measured in millimeters (mm) and is an important specification when designing and installing lighting systems.
1. Why is the LCL important?
🔹 Determines the positioning of the light source in a fixture or reflector.
🔹 Ensures optimal light distribution → The correct LCL prevents shadows and light loss.
🔹 Fixture Compatibility → Lamps with an incorrect LCL may not fit properly.
🔹 Essential for theatrical, industrial and automotive lighting → LCL affects the performance of reflector systems.
📌 An incorrect LCL can result in uneven lighting or inefficient use of reflectors.
2. How is LCL measured?
The LCL is measured from the electrical contact point of the lamp (e.g. the threads or pins) to the geometric center of the light source .
💡 Example: A halogen lamp with an LCL of 57mm means that the center of the filament is 57mm from the base .
3. Applications of the LCL
| Application | Why is LCL important? |
|---|---|
| 🎭 Theater and stage lighting | Correct light beam formation in spotlights. |
| 🚗 Car lighting | Ensures proper focus of headlights. |
| 🏢 Architectural lighting | Helps with even illumination in reflectors. |
| 🏭 Industrial and street lighting | Determines the efficiency of luminaires. |
📌 The LCL must match the fixture specifications for optimal performance.
4. Difference between LCL and MOL
| Term | Meaning | Application |
|---|---|---|
| LCL (Light Center Length) | Distance from the center of the light source to the lamp base | Determines the light position in a luminaire |
| MOL (Maximum Overall Length) | Total length of the lamp, including the fitting | Helps with compatibility with fixtures |
📌 LCL determines the precise placement of the light source, while MOL indicates the overall physical size of the lamp.
💡 In short:
The Light Center Length (LCL) is a crucial measurement in lighting systems, determining how a lamp fits into a fixture and how the light is distributed . A correct LCL ensures efficient light output and compatibility with reflectors in theatrical, automotive, industrial, and architectural applications .