LED lighting systems play a fundamental role in climate chambers and especially in growth chambers, that category of chambers used to promote the development of plants and microorganisms, through the simulation of sunlight.
The correct LED Systems calibration ensures that the lighting conditions are optimal for the growth and development of the organisms studied.
In today's article we will see together how to conduct an adequate calibration, which standards to follow and the FDM offer in this regard.
What are LED Systems for in Growth Chambers
As mentioned above, in growth chambers the precise simulation of sunlight is an essential factor. LED systems are used to provide the light spectrum that best suits the different species of plants and microorganisms grown.
In fact, there are different types of LED lighting systems that are designed for specific applications: some emit full-spectrum light, others are calibrated on specific wavelengths to maximize photosynthesis, others still imitate daylight or nighttime light.
The use of LEDs in growth chambers offers many advantages over traditional light sources: lower energy consumption, longer lifespan, and the ability to precisely adjust parameters such as light intensity and temperature.
To get the most out of these systems, however, it is necessary to correctly calibrate the settings based on the objectives of the climate chamber.
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The Three Phases of LED System Calibration
To better understand how to calibrate LED systems, we can divide the process into three phases:
- Installation and configuration
The first phase of calibration concerns the installation of the LED system. At this preliminary stage, it is crucial to choose the type or types of LEDs that best suit the needs of the growth chamber, considering factors such as power, light spectrum, and adjustability. During installation, it is necessary to pay attention to the correct configuration of the power supply and wiring, to ensure efficient and safe operation. Furthermore, thermal management is essential to avoid overheating of the LEDs, which could reduce their lifespan and compromise their performance.
- Calibration procedures
After installation, we move on to the actual calibration phase. This involves adjusting the brightness and color temperature to suit the needs of the grower. Uniformity of lighting must be ensured, and photometric tests ensure that the light distribution is homogeneous throughout the chamber. At this stage, it is also necessary to verify that the lighting parameters comply with industry standards, which we will discuss later.
- Maintenance and Optimization of Lifetime
Finally, to ensure proper operation over time, it is essential to adopt a regular maintenance strategy. A good maintenance strategy includes: periodic inspection for signs of degradation or color changes, cleaning of light surfaces to remove dust and debris, and updating the firmware and software in smart lighting systems.
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LED Systems Calibration: International Standards
When calibrating LED systems for grow rooms, it is necessary to follow international standards that govern the performance and quality of lighting. These standards ensure consistency in testing and ensure that lighting systems operate reliably and comply with global regulations. Here are three of the main references:
- IES LM-79: This standard defines the procedures for the electrical and photometric measurement of LED products. It determines parameters such as brightness, light distribution and energy efficiency, providing objective data on the quality of lighting.
- IEC 62717: Focuses on the performance of LED modules, establishing minimum requirements regarding life, lumen stability and chromaticity tolerances. It is essential to ensure that LEDs maintain consistent performance over time.
- ANSI C78.377-2017: This standard specifies the recommended chromaticity range for general lighting with SSL (Solid-State Lighting) products. It ensures that the chromaticity of white light emitted by LED products can be clearly communicated to consumers. It applies to LED products with integrated control electronics and heat dissipation systems.
LED System Calibration for FDM Growth Chambers
FDM - Environment Makers is a leading company in the field of climate simulation, including LED-illuminated growth chambers.
Upon delivery of the product, we will take care of the installation and initial calibration of the LED system.
All our products have a one-year emergency response guarantee, but additional forms of extended assistance are possible, divided into various formulas to meet customer needs.
Write to us to find out more.
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