What Makes a Good Quality Inspection Light?

Somebody could quite easily say ‘a torch is just a torch’, or ‘there’s no difference between one inspection light and another’. Well that’s not true and there are a few reasons why. Let’s take a closer look at what makes a good quality inspection light and why some fall short of the mark.

To start with let’s look at the LEDs used. Every source of light has a ‘colour temperature’, which refers to the shade of light emitted. This is measured in Kelvins (K), which can be plotted on a colour temperature scale. The lower the Kelvin, the warmer the light colour, such as the sorts of LED fixtures found in a cosy living room. This would measure around 2,500-3,000 K. In contrast, LEDs with higher Kelvins are a truer reflection of daylight and are used in specialized applications and those that require concentration.

Unilite have pioneered to ensure their lights are 6,500 K, which makes them a cool white colour. This temperature is desired for work lights as it limits the strain on the user’s eyes. LEDs of this nature have been put into the latest Unilite inspection lights to ensure they are best suited to work that requires concentration. These are the: PS-i2R, PS-IL5R and PS-IL10R models.

These inspection lights have had to go through the motions to ensure they are ready for market and have been tested to ANSI FL1 standards. This is the American National Standards Institute flashlight test, an internationally accredited testing body. Within this they undergo tests for: Light Output, Peak Beam Intensity, Beam Distance, Run Time, Impact Resistance and Water Resistance.

One of the most important traits tested is the light output, which is measured in Lumens (lm). The PS-i2R is 275 lm, PS-IL5R 500 lm and PS-IL10R are an amazing 1000 lm. All of which provide enough lighting output for a variety of tasks and working environments. Due to the nature of the SMD (surface mount diode), the LEDs used on these inspection lights are great at lighting a space. In addition to this, they also have a conventional LED torch on their head, which are useful as a longer-range beam.

Another important ANSI F1 standard is run time. This is governed by the type of batteries used in the unit. Some will take disposable batteries, others will be rechargeable. Older rechargeable batteries would have traditionally been nickel metal hydride, which is still the main makeup of a lot of manufacturer’s batteries. These will take longer to charge, have low runtimes and the overall lifespan will be poor.

Unilites scrapped these inferior batteries a long time ago and now power their rechargeable torches with Lithium Ion (Li-ion) batteries. These have greater runtimes, shorter charge times and a much greater battery life span. In addition, Unilites Li-ion batteries come with overcharge protection to ensure the batteries don’t get overcharged, ensuring the overall life of the batteries is maintained.

Proven for their use in factories, industrial sites, manufacturing plants and other equally demanding environments, the Unilite inspection light range is not just a flash in the pan and can help make light work of whatever task it is put up to.

Contact your local branch or call us on 0121 508 6000 to find out more and place an order!