LED lamps _ A good solution

Did you already cross street today? Did you already notice that the bulbs were replaced by a set of little luminous dots?

Yes! They are lamps with LED.  Do you know what LED means?

LED is acronym for Light Emitting Diode.

This system is formed by a electronic component semiconductor. Basically, semiconductors are substances that show electrical conductivity between conductor and insulator.

Lamps with LED have a semiconductor with two terminals: one called the anode and other called cathode. This system converts applied voltage to light and is used in lamps and digital displays.

It is recorded that the first LED was developed by an engineer at General Electric, Holoniak Nick Jr. in the 60s. The first LED, however, was only red and showed a low light intensity (1 mcd). Years later were developed in the colors yellow and then green.

This system was created to replace the use of a lamp in locations where its use is not desirable. A great example would be that "little light" of electronic devices such as TV, to indicate that is on or on standby.

Nowadays, LED lamps have been presented as a sustainable alternative for energy use because:

ü Low energy cost (less than 2 W);

ü Lifetime greater than incandescent and fluorescent lamp (approx 50,000 hours);

ü An LED lamp replaces four conventional lamp;

ü They produce less heat and greater efficiency;

ü Low power consumption;

ü Minimizes CO₂ emissions;

ü Lower maintenance costs;

ü Light source without using mercury;

ü Small Sizes (smaller than 2 mm);

ü Light up quickly;

ü Resistant to shocks, unlike incandescent and fluorescent bulbs;

However, these lamps may present some disadvantages such as:

• There are some fluorescent lamps more efficient;

• The initial cost of the system installation (or circuit) may be higher than for a conventional lamp;

• The temperature of the environment in which LED was installed may affects operation. If the temperature is too high and if there is efficient heat dissipation, overheating can be damages LED causing failures.

Therefore, despite the disadvantages, the use of LED lamps is still a sustained and efficient alternative to live better. Think about it!

Let your comment or your question!

Best regards,

Barbara Bruna

References:

http://www.mundoverde.com.br/Sustentabilidade/Artigo/2012/04/16/Lampadas-LED-+-Iluminacao-Consciente/

http://www.maquinasecia.com/lampadas-led/http://www.akarilampadas.com.br/aplicacoes/led-como-funciona.php