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LM-80 testing

 

LM-80 testing is a recognized core standard in the LED industry for evaluating the long-term performance and reliability of light sources. It is mainly used to measure the luminous flux maintenance rate (i.e. lumen attenuation) and color maintenance performance of LED packages, arrays, or modules, providing scientific basis for product lifespan. This test is not only a reflection of the company's technological strength, but also a "passport" to enter high-end markets such as North America and Australia.

 

1、 What is LM-80 testing? Who posted it?

LM-80 is an authoritative testing method jointly developed and published by the North American Institute of Lighting Engineers (IESNA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Its full name is "Test Method for Luminous Flux and Color Maintenance of LED Packages, Arrays, and Modules" (ANSI/IES LM-80).
It does not target the entire lamp, but focuses on the LED light source components themselves, such as SMD beads, COB integrated light sources, LED modules, etc.

✅  Key points:

Test object: LED device (non integral lamp)
Core indicators: attenuation of luminous flux, change in color parameters
Publisher: IESNA+ANSI, internationally recognized 'gold standard'

 

2、 Why do we need to do LM-80 testing? Three core values

Accelerate the energy efficiency certification process
LED devices with LM-80 reports can significantly shorten the energy efficiency certification cycle for end products. For example:

When applying for Energy Star, the entire lamp does not need to undergo an additional 6000 hour aging test;
Report: It only takes 3000 hours to obtain certification in advance;
No report: 6000 hours of testing must be completed before applying.

Enhance market competitiveness
In markets such as Europe, America, and Australia, buyers generally require suppliers to provide LM-80 reports as quality endorsements. Having this report means predictable product lifespan and more reliable performance, which helps to win customer trust.

Support life estimation and product design optimization
By combining LM-80 data with TM-21 standards, the light decay of LEDs after tens of thousands of hours of use (such as L70 and L90 lifespan) can be scientifically calculated, guiding key aspects such as heat dissipation design and driver matching.

 

 

3、 Specific requirements for LM-80 testing

projectRequirement Description
Test temperature‌Conduct at least three temperatures: 55 ℃, 85 ℃, and one manufacturer selected temperature (T3rd)
Test duration‌Minimum duration of 6000 hours (approximately 8 months), with some customers requesting an extension to 10000 hours
‌Measurement frequency‌Measure parameters such as luminous flux, color temperature, and color rendering index every 1000 hours
environmental control‌Temperature accuracy ± 1 ℃, humidity ≤ 65%, voltage/current fluctuation ≤ ± 3%
Initial benchmark‌The luminous flux measured in 0 hours is 100% (L100), and the subsequent data is used as a reference to calculate the attenuation rate

 

4、 Sample quantity requirements for different product types

Product TypeNumber of samples required for each temperatureThree temperatures are required in total
SMD package (such as 2835, 5050)25 pieces75 pieces
COB/filament array, etc15 pieces45 pieces
Suggested backup quantityExtra+5~10 pieces per temperature to prevent abnormal wear and tear 

📌  Tip: If there is sample damage during testing, it may affect data continuity. It is recommended to prepare sufficient spare parts.

 

 

5、 LM-80 testing process follows five steps

Prepare materials and samples

Submit the opening application form (including model, current, testing temperature, etc.)
Provide product specifications and physical samples
Clearly define the testing time (6000H/10000H)

Initial value test (0 hours)

Use an integrating sphere system to measure initial luminous flux, color temperature, color rendering index, etc. as the L100 benchmark

Constant temperature aging

Install the sample inside the reflector of the constant temperature box and keep it powered on to light up
Operate at 55 ℃, 85 ℃, and self selected temperature respectively

Periodic data collection

Take out samples every 1000 hours, restore to standard environment, and re measure light parameters
Record key node data (1000H, 6000H, 10000H, etc.)

Report generation and lifespan prediction

Provide official LM-80 test report
Extrapolation based on TM-21 standard to predict the lifespan of L70/L90

 

6、 What products is LM-80 testing applicable to?

✅  Products to be tested:

LED packaging: such as 2835, 3030, 5050 SMD LED beads
LED array: COB light source, filament LED
LED module: the core light source part of linear light strips and flexible light strips

❌  Exemption situation:

The complete lighting fixture itself does not undergo LM-80 testing directly, but relies on the LM-80 report of the LED devices used for lifespan estimation

 

7、 How to choose a testing agency?

It is recommended to choose a third-party laboratory with the following qualifications:

Obtain IESNA accreditation or International Accreditation Service (IAS) authorization
Having Energy Star accredited optoelectronic testing equipment
Having international mutual recognition qualifications such as CNAS and ILAC
Experience cases of successfully issuing LM-80 reports