A Quick Guide to LED Lights for Military Contractors

Basics of LED Lighting

A light emitting diode (LED) is a device with semi-conductive properties that aids in converting electrical power to light power. The final product comes enclosed in a fixture that makes the device usable in various applications.

LED lighting is energy efficient and can deliver significant cost savings especially when fitted in expansive industrial or commercial facilities with high-energy consumption needs. As such, LED lighting continues to gain popularity over traditional lighting systems such as halogens and incandescent lights.

Types of LED Lighting

Military installations have numerous uses for LED lighting. LED lamps and fixtures are suitable for use in military vehicles and tanks, storage areas, security checkpoints, tactical lighting, headlamps, tents and shelters, and on-site office facilities.

Numerous types of LED lights are available for different applications. The most common ones include surface-mounted diodes, high-powered diodes, and miniature diodes.

Surface-Mounted Diodes

Surface-mounted diodes are bonded onto the fixture's circuit board. These come in the form of strip lighting and are suitable for use in small electronic devices. One circuit board can hold up to three surface-mounted diodes, giving room for the installation of differently colored diodes based on the consumer's preference.

High-Powered Diodes

High-powered diodes, also known as chip on board LEDs, are brighter than their surface-mounted counterparts. These light fixtures feature a circuit board that can hold plenty of diodes, therefore, providing greater illumination.

While high-powered diodes may not be able to accommodate a wide spectrum of colored diodes, lighting fixtures that utilize chip on board diodes deliver improved illumination and better lighting efficiency.

Miniature

Miniature lights are the smallest types of LED lamps but are useful in a wide range of applications from remote controls to mobile devices. These are easy to install onto a circuit board and do not have special temperature requirements.

Miniature LEDs fall under three categories based on their voltage, wattage, and current. These include high-output, standard, and low-output lights, all of which have different uses in technologically demanding industries such as the military.

Selection of an LED Lighting Provider 

The success of any lighting project largely depends on the relationship between the customer and supplier. When sourcing for LED lighting solutions, consider the following factors.

Volume Capabilities

Military contracts are typically large. As a contractor, look out for an LED lighting provider that can deliver different kinds of LED lamps and fixtures in large quantities.

Quality

Perform background checks to ensure that the provider has a track record of delivering quality lighting products. Inquire about certification and product warranties to ensure the products are covered and tested for safety.

Price

Your bottom line is an important consideration at the end of the day. Look for a provider who will offer value for money and meet volume requirements without compromising the quality of the product.

Until recently, military facilities were reluctant to adopt LED lighting solutions due to the perceived prohibitive upfront costs. However, with the rising costs of non-renewable energy, the benefits of energyefficient lighting far outweigh the upfront outlay.

If you are just getting started with LED lighting supplies, find a provider that can offer comprehensive product recommendations and guidance without pressure to purchase, which is exactly what we do at AvioTech Ltd. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our reliable and affordable LED lighting solutions.