Floodlights

Discover the advantages of commercial lighting with Flexible Neon's offerings. Explore the longevity, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal of festoon lighting, LED floodlights, fairy lights, and LED modules for your projects.

Embracing extra low voltage lighting within your business not only signifies a technological advancement but also embodies a strategic choice laden with a multitude of benefits. One of the foremost advantages lies in the heightened safety offered by low voltage systems. By inherently reducing electrical risks, these systems create a secure environment conducive to the well-being of both employees and customers. This is particularly true for establishments equipped with our collections, which include 12V, 24V, and 36V lighting solutions, ensuring enhanced safety across diverse business landscapes, from corporate offices to bustling retail hubs.

Furthermore, extra low voltage lighting seamlessly aligns with contemporary sustainability goals. Engineered for maximum energy efficiency, our 12V, 24V, and 36V lighting systems curtail overall energy consumption, leading to tangible reductions in operational expenditures. This not only contributes to lower costs but also positions your business as a champion of environmental stewardship. By opting for our eco-friendly lighting solutions, you demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices, bolstering your brand reputation as a responsible custodian of the planet.

In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, businesses that embrace our extra low voltage lighting solutions take a definitive stride towards a luminous, safer, and greener future. By prioritising safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability, you're not only illuminating your spaces but also setting a precedent for responsible and forward-thinking operational paradigms.

When it comes to illuminating outdoor spaces, our floodlights are indispensable for creating ambience, enhancing security, and highlighting architectural features. At Flexible Neon, we offer a wide range of floodlights tailored to meet diverse lighting needs, from single-coloured options to RGBW variations in various wattage. Let's explore the options we provide and their versatile uses in architectural lighting design.

1. Single-Coloured Floodlights: Our single-coloured floodlights are designed to deliver powerful and uniform illumination, making them ideal for accentuating architectural elements, landscaping, and outdoor areas. Available in wattage ranging from 50W to 200W, these floodlights provide reliable and energy-efficient lighting solutions for commercial and residential applications.

2. RGBW Floodlights: For those seeking dynamic and customisable lighting options, our RGBW floodlights are the perfect choice. With the ability to produce millions of colours and various lighting effects, these floodlights offer unparalleled versatility. Available in wattage of 250W and 500W, our RGBW floodlights are suitable for large-scale architectural projects, event lighting, and outdoor installations where colour-changing capabilities are desired.

Uses and Applications:

• Architectural Lighting: Whether illuminating facades, highlighting building features, or creating dramatic lighting effects, our floodlights are essential for architectural lighting design. Their versatility allows architects and designers to enhance the aesthetics of any structure and create visually striking environments.

• Outdoor Spaces: From gardens and parks to stadiums and parking lots, our floodlights provide reliable and efficient illumination for outdoor spaces of all sizes. Whether used for security lighting, landscape illumination, or outdoor events, our floodlights ensure safety and visibility in any environment.

• Wall Washing: Our wall washer floodlights are specifically designed to evenly wash walls with light, creating a uniform and visually appealing glow. Ideal for highlighting textured surfaces, architectural details, and signage, wall washer floodlights add depth and dimension to any space.

• Linear Wall Washer: Our linear wall washer floodlights offer precise and uniform illumination along architectural surfaces, such as building facades, bridges, and monuments. Their sleek and compact design makes them perfect for applications where space is limited, while their high-performance LED's ensure long-lasting and efficient operation.

At Flexible Neon, we understand the importance of reliable and high-quality lighting solutions in architectural design. Our floodlights are engineered to deliver exceptional performance, durability, and versatility, making them the perfect choice for commercial-grade lighting projects in Australia and beyond.

Whether you're illuminating a building facade, enhancing outdoor landscapes, or creating dynamic lighting effects, our floodlights are designed to meet your unique lighting needs. Explore our range of floodlights today and elevate your architectural lighting design with Flexible Neon.

Connecting low voltage wires together is a common task when working with lighting systems like festoon cables, LED drivers, dotless strips, modules, flexible neon, and more. Follow this detailed guide to ensure safe and reliable connections for your low voltage lighting projects.

Materials You Will Need:

• Low voltage wires (such as festoon cable, dotless strip wires, module wires, or flexible neon wires).
• Wire cutters/strippers.
• Soldering iron and solder (for permanent connections, if needed).
• Heat shrink tubing (for added insulation and protection).
• Wire connectors (such as wire nuts, butt connectors, or crimp connectors).
• Electrical tape (as an alternative to heat shrink tubing).
• Cable ties (for cable management).
• Heat gun or lighter (if using heat shrink tubing).
• Safety gear: Safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves.

Procedure:

1. Safety First:

• Always work in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves to protect your eyes and hands.

2. Prepare the Wires:

• Ensure that the low voltage wires you plan to connect are clean, undamaged, and stripped of any damaged insulation.
• Strip the ends of the wires to expose approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm) of bare wire. Use wire strippers to do this.

3. Choose the Connection Method:

Wire Connectors (WAGO):

• Wire connectors are a quick and reliable way to connect low voltage wires together. They come in various sizes to accommodate different wire gauges.
• To use wire connectors:
  • Insert the prepared wires into the open slots of the WAGO connector. Make sure that each wire goes into its designated slot based on size and polarity.
  • Once the wires are inserted correctly, close the clamping unit securely. This action will grip the wires tightly, establishing a secure connection.
  • Ensure that the wires are held firmly in place by gently tugging on them.

Soldering (for Permanent Connections):

• Soldering provides a strong and secure connection. This method is ideal for applications where you don't want any chance of wires coming loose.
• To solder wires together:
  • Twist the exposed ends of the wires together.
  • Heat your soldering iron to the appropriate temperature for your solder.
  • Apply the soldering iron to the twisted wires to heat them.
  • Apply solder to the heated wires, allowing it to flow evenly over the twisted area.
  • Remove the soldering iron and let the solder cool and solidify. Ensure the wires are held in place until the solder hardens.
  • Optionally, slide heat shrink tubing over the soldered area and use a heat gun or lighter to shrink it for added protection.

4. Insulate the Connection:

• If using wire connectors, they provide built-in insulation.
• If soldering, slide heat shrink tubing over the soldered area or use electrical tape to insulate the connection.
• If using heat shrink tubing, apply heat evenly using a heat gun or lighter until the tubing shrinks and seals the connection tightly. Ensure there are no gaps in the tubing.

5. Secure and Organise the Wires:

• Use cable ties or clips to secure and organise the connected wires, keeping them neat and tidy.

6. Test the Connection:

• Before energising your lighting system, test the connection to ensure it's secure and functioning correctly.

7. Repeat as Needed:

• Repeat the above steps for all the low voltage wire connections in your project.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively connect low voltage wires for your festoon cables, dotless strips, modules, flexible neon, and other low voltage lighting applications. Always adhere to safety guidelines and manufacturer recommendations for your specific lighting products.

When it comes to creating the perfect ambience in your living or working spaces, understanding the nuances of lighting is crucial. Two of the most popular lighting schemes, direct lighting and indirect lighting, offer distinct advantages and applications. Before embarking on any lighting project, it's essential to grasp the key differences between them.

Direct Lighting: Focusing the Beam

Direct lighting is all about precision. In this scheme, the light source directs its rays to illuminate a specific area or object. The result is a focused and intense spotlight effect, creating a well-defined hotspot at the centre of attention. Think of the concentrated illumination from a desk lamp, and you have a classic example of direct lighting.

Indirect Lighting: The Art of Diffusion

Conversely, indirect lighting takes a different approach. Here, the light source emits its rays upwards, allowing light to diffuse throughout the space. Rather than concentrating on a particular area, indirect lighting bathes the entire room in a gentle, even glow. It achieves this by reflecting light off surfaces, such as ceilings or walls, before it spreads throughout the space.

Distinguishing Between Direct and Indirect Lighting

Understanding the distinctions between these two lighting schemes is vital. Let's explore the pros and cons of each:

Direct Lighting: Shedding Light on the Benefits

• Focus: Direct lighting excels at focusing on specific objects or areas, making it ideal for tasks and highlighting points of interest.
• Highlight: It creates defined hotspots, making it perfect for showcasing products, exhibits, or architectural details.
• Safety: Direct lighting enhances visibility in potentially hazardous or dimly lit spaces, such as stairs or roads.
• Aesthetic Appeal: When used thoughtfully, direct lighting can provide an aesthetic touch and create captivating shadow effects on walls.

Direct Lighting: Shedding Light on the Drawbacks

• Harsh Shadows: The concentrated light can create harsh shadows, which may not be ideal for all environments.
• Screen Reflection: Direct lighting can cause reflections on screens, potentially affecting visual comfort.
• Glare: It may produce glare, leading to eye strain.
• Uneven Lighting: The ceiling often remains dark as most of the light is directed downward.

Indirect Lighting: Benefits of the Subtle Approach

• Illusion of Spaciousness: Indirect lighting gives the illusion of a larger space by diffusing light evenly without revealing the light source.
• Glare Reduction: It minimises glare and is suitable for rooms with screens, such as those with TVs or computers.
• Soothing Atmosphere: Indirect lighting casts a calming, even light in all directions, creating a relaxed ambience in various settings.
• Structural Accentuation: It's excellent for accentuating unique structures in both interior and exterior spaces.

Indirect Lighting: Consider the Drawbacks

• Brightness: Indirect lighting may not provide enough illumination on its own and may need supplemental lighting.
• Dark Spaces: Over-reliance on ceiling-based indirect lighting can leave some areas of a room in relative darkness.
• Limited Visibility: In some cases, it may not offer sufficient visibility, particularly in workspaces.

When to Use Direct and Indirect Lighting

The choice between direct and indirect lighting largely depends on the purpose of the lighting and the space in question:

Direct Lighting - Ideal For:

• Home & Office: Direct lighting enhances workspaces, such as desks and conference tables.
• Work/Study Table: Table lamps offer focused illumination for reading or working.
• Kitchen: Ideal for task lighting over workstations and sinks.
• Museum & Art Gallery: Perfect for highlighting specific exhibits or artworks.
• Street Lights: Ensures safety by illuminating specific areas at night.
• Decoration: Direct lighting can serve as both functional lighting and decor.

Indirect Lighting - Ideal For:

• Ceiling & Wall Lighting: Creates a modern, ambient atmosphere.
• Kitchen Cabinet: Adds a touch of elegance and practicality.
• Bathroom: Enhances the overall look while ensuring practicality.
• Automobiles & Marines: Used for decoration and accent lighting.
• Hotel & Restaurants: Elevates interior and exterior aesthetics.
• Architectural Designs: Highlights architectural elements.

Combining Direct and Indirect Lighting

To achieve the best of both worlds, you can combine direct and indirect lighting in your space. For instance, use indirect lighting to create a warm, ambient atmosphere throughout the room, and then employ direct lighting to focus on specific tasks or areas.

Direct Lighting Vs. Indirect Lighting: The Verdict

While both direct and indirect lighting have their merits, indirect lighting often shines as the preferred choice for its even and elegant illumination. It reduces glare, provides superior visibility, and contributes to a modern aesthetic. In contrast, direct lighting can be ideal for spotlighting specific areas or objects but comes with limitations like harsh shadows and uneven lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these two lighting schemes depends on your specific needs and the desired ambience.

Types of Lighting Schemes:

Lighting schemes are categorised into five types:

1. Direct Lighting: Approximately 90% of the light is directed downwards, with some reflected upwards.
2. Semi-Direct Lighting: Typically, 60% to 90% of the light is directed downward, with the remainder reflected upwards.
3. Indirect Lighting: Around 90% of the light is emitted upwards, with some reflected downwards.
4. Semi-Indirect Lighting: Similar to semi-direct lighting but with the distribution of light in the opposite direction.
5. General Lighting: Light is evenly distributed in all directions, creating a soft, ambient illumination.

Understanding these lighting schemes can help you make informed decisions when designing the lighting for your space. Whether you prefer the precision of direct lighting or the elegance of indirect lighting, choosing the right lighting scheme can transform any room into a comfortable and functional environment.

Choosing the correct wire gauge for flexible neon lighting is essential for safety and efficiency. It is important to consider the current load and voltage drop to achieve optimal performance. Various American Wire Gauge (AWG) options are available to meet the specific needs of different lighting applications.

LED strip lights, like those offered by Flexible Neon, are renowned for their longevity and versatility. To understand how long these LED strip lights can last, it's essential to examine their structure and the factors that influence their lifespan.

The Structure of LED Strip Lights:

The main components of LED strips include LED's (Light Emitting Diodes), FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Boards), resistors, and other essential elements. These components are assembled using Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Assembly Process, which mounts LED's, resistors, and other components onto the FPCB.

Some outdoor or underwater LED strips may also have a protective silicone or PU glue coating. However, it's crucial to note that LED strips with higher IP ratings, designed for enhanced protection against dust and water, may have a somewhat shorter lifespan compared to IP20-rated LED strips. This is primarily because LED strips with higher IP ratings struggle to dissipate heat as efficiently. Generally, cooler environments support a longer LED lifespan, as higher temperatures tend to reduce light output. (For more details on how heat affects LED's, see "How are LED's affected by heat?")

Understanding LED Lifetime and the "L70" Rule:

Unlike traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs that fail abruptly, LED's gradually lose their light output over time. They continue working until they become too dim to be practical. The industry has established a standard for this gradual decrease in light output, known as the "L70" metric. It signifies the point at which an LED has dimmed to 70% of its original brightness.

In some instances, you may come across symbols like "LxByCz(h)" to describe the lifetime of LED luminaires. Here's what it means:

• "Lx" denotes the number of hours after which the luminous flux has dropped to x percent.
• "By" signifies the percentage of luminaires in the same group that have fallen below the specified luminous flux.
• "Cz" indicates the percentage of luminaires in the group that have experienced total LED failure.

For example, "L70B10C0.1 (50,000 h)" means that after 50,000 hours:

• The LED luminaires must still provide at least 70% of their initial luminous flux.
• Up to 10% of the luminaires can provide less than 70% of the initial luminous flux.
• In just 0.1% of the luminaires, all LED's may have failed.

How Is "L70" Calculated?

To calculate LED lifetime, a testing method called LM-80 is often employed. This method specifies a predetermined temperature and driving current for testing LED samples. The light output change is measured at intervals of 1000 hours, up to a maximum of 10,000 hours. Reputable manufacturers conduct LM-80 testing at third-party laboratories to ensure impartial results. They then publish these results in report format. It's important to note that reliable LED strip suppliers should be able to provide LM80 test reports, especially when purchasing large quantities.

However, LED life testing can be time-consuming. For instance, even with LED's operating 24/7, a 10,000-hour test takes around 14 months. This timeframe is impractical for fast-moving industries like LED lighting. To address this issue, the TM-21 extrapolation algorithm is employed. It considers the performance of LM-80-tested samples during the first few thousand hours and provides an estimated lifetime.

Factors Affecting LED Strip Light Lifespan:

Several factors can affect the lifespan of LED strip lights:

1. FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board): High-quality, double-layer pure copper flexible PCBs facilitate the smooth passage of significant current, reduce heat generation, and promote efficient heat dissipation. By attaching the LED strip to an aluminium profile, you can dissipate heat effectively and lower the operating temperature, thus extending LED life.

2. Double-Sided Tape: Quality matters when it comes to adhesive tape. LED strip lights from reputable suppliers often use high-quality tapes, like the 3M brand VHB tape. Proper tape quality ensures long-lasting installations and good thermal conductivity.

3. Resistors: Resistors regulate the forward current through LED's to maintain their designed brightness. It's crucial to use high-quality resistors from reputable manufacturers to avoid shortening the LED strip's life or causing damage.

4. Power Supply: The power supply is a critical component. Always use a reliable, brand-name power supply to ensure stable voltage output. Low-quality power supplies can deliver unstable voltages that might exceed the LED strip's working voltage, potentially damaging it.

5. Heat Dissipation: Heat can significantly reduce LED lifespan. To manage heat effectively, install LED strips in well-ventilated areas. If feasible, attach the LED strip to an aluminium profile to aid in heat dissipation, as aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat.

By considering these factors and following best practices for installation and maintenance, you can maximise the lifespan of your Flexible Neon LED strip lights, ensuring they provide brilliant and reliable illumination for years to come.

At Flexible Neon, we prefer warm white lighting for several compelling reasons. Warm white light offers a softer, more natural glow that closely resembles traditional incandescent lighting, creating a welcoming and cosy ambience in any space. Here are some key reasons why warm white is our top choice:

1. Comfort and Relaxation: Warm white light has a colour temperature typically ranging from 2700K to 3500K, which emits a gentle, calming glow that promotes relaxation. It's ideal for areas where people gather, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and dining spaces.

2. Enhancing Decor: Warm white light complements various interior designs and colour schemes, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your space. It creates a harmonious atmosphere that suits both modern and classic settings.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: Warm white light is often preferred for its flattering effect on skin tones, making it an excellent choice for retail and hospitality spaces, as well as photography studios.

4. Cosy Ambience: Whether it's in a restaurant, café, or residential setting, warm white lighting helps to create a cosy and inviting environment that encourages social interaction and relaxation.

5. Versatility: Warm white lighting is incredibly versatile and can be used in various applications, such as accent lighting, cove lighting, or general room illumination.

6. Well-Being: Warm white light has been associated with improved mood and overall well-being. It is considered more soothing and less disruptive to circadian rhythms than cool white or daylight lighting.

7. Subtle and Stylish: Warm white light adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space, making it an excellent choice for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

At Flexible Neon, we prioritise the well-being and satisfaction of our customers. We believe that warm white lighting enhances the overall experience and comfort in any environment, making it a preferred option for a wide range of lighting projects. With our extensive collection of warm white LED products, we are committed to helping you achieve the perfect lighting solution that meets your specific needs and preferences.