Tunnel lights are essential for ensuring the safety of drivers and passengers on roads and highways. These lights provide visibility in tunnels and other dark areas, helping drivers to navigate through them safely. However, tunnel lights are electrical devices, which means that they must undergo various safety tests before they can be installed and used.
How can GTG assist you with the tests on tunnel light?
(1) Electrical safety test
Electrical test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can function electrically. During this test, the light is subjected to a range of electrical tests to ensure that it is functioning correctly. This test is essential because faulty electrical components can cause the lights to fail or become a fire hazard.
- Dielectric strength test: the dielectric strength test is conducted to determine the ability of the tunnel light to withstand high voltage without breaking down or suffering damage. This test involves applying a high voltage to the tunnel light and measuring the amount of current that flows through it. If the tunnel light can withstand the high voltage without breaking down or suffering damage, it passes the test.
- Ground continuity test: the ground continuity test is conducted to ensure that the tunnel light is properly grounded. This test involves measuring the resistance between the ground wire and the metal frame of the tunnel light. If the resistance is within the acceptable range, the tunnel light passes the test.
- Insulation resistance test: the insulation resistance test is conducted to determine if the tunnel light’s insulation is effective in preventing electrical shocks. This test involves measuring the resistance between the live parts of the tunnel light and the ground. If the resistance is high enough, the tunnel light passes the test.
- Leakage current test: the leakage current test is conducted to ensure that the tunnel light does not leak current to the ground, which can cause electrical shocks. This test involves measuring the amount of current that flows from the live parts of the tunnel light to the ground. If the leakage current is within the acceptable range, the tunnel light passes the test.
(2) Photometric test
- Illuminance test: the Illuminance test is one of the most common photometric tests used to evaluate tunnel lighting systems. This test measures the amount of light falling on the road surface inside the tunnel. The test is performed using a light meter, and the results are expressed in lux or foot-candles. The recommended illuminance level for tunnels is between 50 and 150 lux.
- Luminance test: the Luminance test measures the amount of light reflected from the road surface inside the tunnel. This test is performed using a luminance meter and is expressed in candelas per square meter. The recommended luminance level for tunnels is between 2 and 6 candelas per square meter.
- Glare test: the Glare test measures the amount of glare produced by the tunnel lighting system. This test is performed using a glare meter and is expressed in glare index units. The recommended glare index for tunnels is less than 19.
- Uniformity test: the Uniformity test measures the uniformity of the light distribution inside the tunnel. This test is performed by measuring the illuminance levels at various points inside the tunnel and comparing them to the average illuminance level. The recommended uniformity level for tunnels is between 0.6 and 0.8.
- Color rendering index test: the Color Rendering Index (CRI) test measures the ability of the lighting system to render colors accurately. This test is performed using a CRI meter and is expressed as a percentage. The recommended CRI level for tunnel lighting is greater than 70.
- Flicker test: the Flicker test measures the amount of flicker produced by the tunnel lighting system. This test is performed using a flicker meter and is expressed as a percentage. The recommended flicker level for tunnel lighting is less than 5%.
(3) Photobiological safety test
The photobiological safety standards are developed by international organizations such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). Photobiological safety testing is conducted according to the photobiological safety standards. The photobiological safety testing is conducted by specialized laboratories that are accredited to conduct photobiological safety testing.
- Spectral irradiance measurement: spectral irradiance measurement is the process of measuring the spectral distribution of light sources. The spectral irradiance measurement is critical to ensure that the lighting sources used in tunnels do not emit harmful radiation. The spectral irradiance measurement is conducted using a spectroradiometer.
- Radiant exposure measurement: radiant exposure measurement is the process of measuring the amount of radiant energy that is emitted by a light source. The radiant exposure measurement is critical to ensure that the lighting sources used in tunnels do not emit harmful levels of radiation. The radiant exposure measurement is conducted using a radiometer.
- Blue light hazard measurement: blue light hazard measurement is the process of measuring the potential harmful effects of blue light emitted by lighting sources. Blue light hazard measurement is critical to ensure that the lighting sources used in tunnels do not emit harmful levels of blue light. The blue light hazard measurement is conducted using a blue light hazard meter.
- UV radiation measurement: UV radiation measurement is the process of measuring the amount of UV radiation emitted by lighting sources. UV radiation measurement is critical to ensure that the lighting sources used in tunnels do not emit harmful levels of UV radiation. The UV radiation measurement is conducted using a UV radiation meter.
- Infrared radiation measurement: infrared radiation measurement is the process of measuring the amount of infrared radiation emitted by lighting sources. Infrared radiation measurement is critical to ensure that the lighting sources used in tunnels do not emit harmful levels of infrared radiation. The infrared radiation measurement is conducted using an infrared radiation meter.
- Flicker measurement: flicker measurement is the process of measuring the frequency of the flicker caused by lighting sources. Flicker measurement is critical to ensure that the lighting sources used in tunnels do not cause any discomfort or harm to human beings. The flicker measurement is conducted using a flicker meter.
(4) EMC test
Given the high electrical and electromagnetic interference in tunnels, tunnel lights are required to undergo rigorous Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) tests to ensure that they do not interfere with other electrical and electronic equipment.
- Radiated emission test: this test measures the amount of electromagnetic energy that is emitted by the tunnel light. The light is placed in an anechoic chamber, and a spectrum analyzer is used to measure the electromagnetic emissions. The results are then compared to EMC standards to ensure that the tunnel light is not emitting harmful levels of energy.
- Radiated immunity test: this test measures the ability of the tunnel light to withstand electromagnetic interference from other sources. The light is placed in an anechoic chamber, and a signal generator is used to create electromagnetic interference. The light is then tested to ensure that it continues to function properly without interference.
- Conducted emission test: this test measures the amount of electromagnetic energy that is conducted through the power supply and other cables connected to the tunnel light. The light is connected to a spectrum analyzer, and the emissions are measured. The results are then compared to EMC standards to ensure that the tunnel light is not emitting harmful levels of energy.
- Conducted immunity test: this test measures the ability of the tunnel light to withstand electromagnetic interference that is conducted through the power supply and other cables connected to the light. The light is connected to a signal generator, and the interference is increased until the light malfunctions. The results are then compared to EMC standards to ensure that the light can withstand the expected levels of interference.
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) test: this test simulates the discharge of static electricity that can occur when someone touches the tunnel light. The light is subjected to a series of electrostatic discharges to ensure that it can withstand the expected levels of static electricity.
- Surge test: this test measures the ability of the tunnel light to withstand sudden increases in voltage that can occur during power surges. The light is subjected to a series of power surges to ensure that it can continue to function properly without damage.
- Voltage dip and interruption test: this test measures the ability of the tunnel light to continue functioning properly during voltage dips and interruptions. The light is subjected to a simulated power outage to ensure that it can continue to operate without interruption.
(5) Energy efficiency test
Energy efficiency tests on tunnel lights are conducted to evaluate the performance and energy consumption of these lighting systems. These tests help identify ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy usage in tunnels. Some common tests include:
- Luminous efficacy: this test measures the amount of light produced by a tunnel light per unit of electrical power consumed. It helps determine the efficiency of the lighting system in converting electricity into useful light.
- Energy consumption measurement: this test involves monitoring and measuring the electrical power consumed by the tunnel lights over a specific period. It helps assess the overall energy efficiency of the lighting system.
(6) Mechanical tests
- Vibration test: vibration test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand vibrations. During this test, the light is subjected to a range of frequencies and intensities to simulate the vibrations it will experience while in use. This test is essential because tunnels are typically noisy environments, and the lights must be able to withstand these vibrations to ensure they do not fail prematurely.
- Impact test: impact test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand impacts or shocks. During this test, the light is subjected to a range of impacts of varying intensities and directions. This test is crucial because tunnel lights may be struck by debris or vehicles, and they must be able to withstand such impacts without breaking.
(7) Environmental test
Environmental testing is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand exposure to environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. This test is crucial because tunnels can be harsh environments, and the lights must be able to withstand these conditions without failing.
- Temperature test: temperature test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand temperature fluctuations. During this test, the light is subjected to a range of temperatures, both high and low, to simulate the conditions it will experience in a tunnel. This test is essential because tunnels can experience extreme temperature fluctuations, and the lights must be able to withstand these conditions without failing.
- Humidity test: humidity test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand moisture. During this test, the light is subjected to a range of humidity levels to simulate the conditions it will experience in a tunnel. This test is crucial because tunnels can be damp environments, and the lights must be able to withstand this moisture without failing.
- Salt spray test: salt spray test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand exposure to salt spray. During this test, the light is subjected to a salt spray to simulate the conditions it will experience in a tunnel near the coast. This test is crucial because salt can corrode and damage the lights, potentially leading to failure.
- Dust test: dust test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand exposure to dust. During this test, the light is subjected to a range of dust concentrations to simulate the conditions it will experience in a tunnel. This test is essential because dust can accumulate on the lights, potentially reducing their effectiveness and lifespan.
- Water immersion test: water immersion test is carried out to determine how well a tunnel light can withstand immersion in water. During this test, the light is submerged in water for a set period to simulate the conditions it will experience in a tunnel flooded with water. This test is crucial because tunnels can flood, and the lights must be able to withstand this without failing.
How can GTG assist you with the certifications or markings for tunnel light?
(1) IEC certification
IEC Certification is a safety certification for products sold in various parts of the world. It stands for International Electrotechnical Commission, and it ensures that the product meets the safety standards set by the global market.
(2) CE marking
CE Marking is a mandatory marking for products sold in the European Economic Area (EEA). It indicates that the product meets the safety, health, and environmental protection requirements of the European Union (EU).
(3) UL certification
UL Certification is a safety certification for products sold in the United States and Canada. It is issued by Underwriters Laboratories, a global safety certification company. UL Certification ensures that the product meets the safety standards set by the North American market.
(4) RoHS certification
RoHS Certification is a standard that restricts the use of hazardous substances in electronic and electrical equipment. The certification ensures that the product does not contain any harmful substances, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium.
(5) DLC listing
DLC Listing is a voluntary certification for LED lighting products in North America. It stands for DesignLights Consortium, and it ensures that the product meets the energy efficiency and performance criteria set by the North American market.
(6) ETL certification
ETL Certification is a safety certification for products sold in North America. It stands for Electrical Testing Laboratories, and it ensures that the product meets the safety standards set by the North American market.
(7) TUV certification
TUV Certification is a safety certification for products sold in Europe. It stands for Technischer Überwachungsverein, which means “Technical Inspection Association.” The certification ensures that the product meets the safety standards set by the European market.
(8) GS marking
GS Marking is a voluntary safety certification for products sold in Germany. It stands for Geprüfte Sicherheit, which means “tested safety.” The certification ensures that the product meets the safety standards set by the German market.
(9) Energy Star certification
Energy Star Certification is a voluntary certification for energy-efficient products in North America. It ensures that the product meets the energy efficiency criteria set by the North American market.
(10) CCC marking
CCC Marking is a mandatory marking for products sold in China. It stands for China Compulsory Certification, and it ensures that the product meets the safety, health, and environmental protection requirements of the Chinese market.
(11) WEEE certification
WEEE Certification is a standard that requires producers to take responsibility for the disposal of electronic waste. It stands for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, and it ensures that the product is disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.
(12) IP rating
IP Rating is a standard that indicates the level of protection against intrusion by dust and water. The IP Rating is a two-digit number, and the first digit indicates the level of protection against dust, while the second digit indicates the level of protection against water.
Why the biggest brands trust GTG Group?
GTG Group (Global Testing Group) is a certification company that offers testing and certification services to different industries. Our expertise in tunnel light testing and certification has made us a trusted name in the industry.
(1) Independent and impartial testing
GTG Group is a third-party testing company, which means we are not affiliated with any specific manufacturer. This impartiality can provide camera manufacturers and consumers with confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the testing process, and ensure that the camera meets the required standards.
(2) Confidentiality and security
GTG Group understands the importance of confidentiality and security when it comes to testing and certification. We ensure that our clients’ data and information are kept confidential and secure at all times. This ensures that our clients’ intellectual property and trade secrets are protected.
Contact GTG Group today for tunnel light testing and certification to avoid any legal issues that may arise from using a faulty tunnel light.
