Raw Lumens vs Lumens what's the deal?

So what's the difference you ask? We are asked at times what's the difference between Raw and Actual as some Businesses use Raw Lumens to advertise their products. The answer is simple!

Raw Lumens refers to the calculated (on paper) Lumens or output of the LED being used as offered by the manufacturer of the LED. However the calculated value of the LED or its performance is measured at its peak, usually 25 milliseconds after it is turned on. Most of us off roaders use our LED Light Bars for more than a split second and as the LED is left on and heats up, the performance drops dramatically. You may not notice visually but over 20 to 30 minutes, its performance drops and stabilises. Most Manufacturers take this stabilised output or Lumens as their advertised figure and give you a real measured value for you to consider.

Without knowing, the design, construction and materials of the Light Bar you have just purchased differs from each Manufacturer and the cost speaks quality. Manufacturers can use different quality LEDs, housings for heat dissipation, quality of the wiring and circuitry not to mention thermal controls and the quality of the clear lenses placed in front of the LEDs all have an impact on how well your Light Bar will perform.

From the Raw Lumens mentioned above, the performance figure given at the factory can drop as much as 40% efficiency with the use of inferior quality products in the Light Bars construction, thereby drastically reducing your Raw Lumens to the Lumens you are actually given in a product data sheet.

KC Hilites prides itself in designing and manufacturing high quality optics and lights that perform under even the toughest conditions. Their Lights have on board thermal management, high quality reflectors and housings as well as the quality clear lenses that offer you clear, crisp light for your night time adventures. So take some time and research what Businesses are offering and make an informed decision on your next purchase.

4x4 Hub.