From energy-consuming incandescent filaments to CFLs and energy-efficient LEDs, the world of lighting has significantly changed over the passage of time. LEDs are not a new invention and have been used in a myriad of industries for decades – aviation, automotive, and manufacturing sectors are just to name a few.
Today, LEDs are considered to be an affordable and ecofriendly substitute for conventional lighting solutions.
Here’s how LED light works and why they’re are making our roads safer.
How LED Traffic Lights Work?
An LED is a light-emitting diode that discharges light when a current passes through it. LEDs unlike burning incandescent lamps utilize just 10% of the energy and are quite economical to use in conjunction with battery-supported systems. Also, LEDs last more than 100,000 hours which is 50 times more than traditional bulbs at 2000 hours.
Impact of LED Roadway Lighting on Traffic
Improves visibility
LEDs are more directional than incandescent bulbs and other conventional lighting solutions, making it possible for more light shines onto the required area. LED roadway lights target 90% of their light downward, meaning the areas they light are brighter and more visible. One of the municipal tests conducted back in 2009 revealed that vehicle theft reduced by 14% due to LED lights fixed on the streets.
In addition to that, LED traffic lights also make it easy for drivers to drive smoothly in challenging conditions. LEDs work better against the sun if compared to halogens which improve visibility and enable drivers to view the LED traffic lights better.
Energy-Efficiency
Another significant benefit of LED roadway lights is its capacity to provide optimum lighting solution using minimum energy. The energy efficiency of light can be determined using lumens which basically highlights the amount of light that a device produces for each power unit.
Previously, we used to measure the efficiency of light by the number of lumens it produced. But, the fact is that not all of those lumens were consumed. LEDs, in comparison, produces less waste than other commercially-available alternatives.
In fact, if the government substituted all the traffic lights with LED lights, they could observe as much as a 75% improvement in their energy consumption. In fact, in certain cases, it could even exceed to 90% subject to the type of LEDs you’re using.
Affordable
LED traffic lights are a little bit pricier than power-soaking incandescent bulbs, but they’re absolutely worth their price considering the long-term benefits it offers to municipalities. LEDs have a huge lifespan and they need less maintenance and repair than other options. That’s estimated to save more than $600 per annum.
A Long Lifespan
LED bulbs come with a bigger lifespan than other conventional lighting options. An average incandescent bulb doesn’t last more than 1000 hours while the average span of an LED light is over 50,000 hours which can even get extended to 100,000 depending upon your use. An LED traffic light can last anywhere from 4 to 13 years before you have to change it.
Great Environmental Performance
Today, it is becoming important for companies to opt for eco-friendly practices. Also, people are becoming more and more environmentally conscious than ever before. Considering the long-hour usage of street lights, it’s extremely important that government and municipalities choose options that are sustainable, affordable and long-lasting.
No Frequent Replacements Needed
LEDs are built to last. As mentioned above, an average LED traffic light can last anywhere between 4 to 13 years, meaning there will be no need to replace bulbs in intersection. Also, drivers are saved the annoyance of heavy traffic while bulbs are renewed.
The Capacity to Work in Cold Weather
Conventional lighting sources dislike cold and frigid weather. In winter, almost all traditional light sources especially fluorescent lamps need high power to start. Also, there’s a substantial decline in the intensity of those lights.
LED roadway lights, on the other hand, perform extremely smoothly in cold weather. This is perhaps one of the biggest reasons why LEDs are used in refrigerators, freezers, and cold storage spaces. Their capacity to perform so well in cold climate also makes them an ideal pick for streets, roadways, and parking lots.
No UV Emissions
Incandescent light bulbs get extremely hot when they’re in use. Many conventional lighting sources convert over 90% of energy into heat and just 10% for the production of light.
Interestingly, LEDs produce no heat and the light they discharge is also within the seeable spectrum. Because of this particular feature, LEDs are preferred by almost all developed countries to be used as an ultimate traffic light source.
Dimming Tendency
The best thing about LEDs is that they can work flawlessly at almost any power percentage. Unlike other light sources that do not include any automatic dimming option, LEDs perform amazingly well when dimmed. This feature not only enhances the product lifespan but also saves energy costs and overall power consumption.
It is, however, important to understand that you cannot dim LEDs with traditional equipment. Make sure you invest in hardware that is specific to the type and technology of LED lights you have installed on the roads.
Minimum-Voltage Requirement
If you live in a heavy-rain area or in a location where there’s a flooding risk, you need a lighting solution that demands minimum voltage requirements. LEDs are a perfect option for this as they naturally works on low voltage. Not only LEDs provide consistent illumination in flooded regions but are also safe for commuters.
Design Flexibility
Because of their small size, LEDs can be used in a variety of applications. Depending upon the area size, you can either use them individually or in bunches to create a traditional bulb.
LEDs are ROHS-Compliant
One of the biggest advantages that come handy with LED traffic lights is that they’re ROHS- compliant, meaning they involve no lead or mercury. Also, they don’t emit toxic gases if they’re damaged.
Whether you’re looking for a lighting solution for an entire roadway or a small street, LED lights can surely be your safest bid. They’re economical, functional and super BRIGHT.
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