How to Choose an LM-80 Testing Laboratory - Key Tips & Testing Value

Key Considerations for Choosing an LM-80 Testing Laboratory

When selecting an LM-80 testing laboratory, it is recommended to focus on the following key aspects:

• Qualifications and Accreditations: This is the most critical factor. Ensure the laboratory holds basic qualifications such as CNAS (China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment) and CMA (China Inspection Body and Laboratory Mandatory Approval), as well as international accreditations like NVLAP (National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program) or IAS (International Accreditation Service). These credentials guarantee the authority and global credibility of test reports, which is particularly important for product exports.

• Technical Capabilities and Equipment: LM-80 testing has a long cycle (typically at least 6,000 hours) and imposes high requirements on the laboratory’s temperature control systems, photometric measurement equipment (e.g., integrating spheres, goniophotometers), and long-term operational reliability. Inquire about the brand and accuracy of equipment, as well as the laboratory’s capacity to conduct multiple test groups simultaneously.

• Project Experience and Industry Reputation: Prioritize laboratories with extensive experience in the lighting industry, especially in the LED field. Such laboratories are more familiar with standard details, common issues, and how to help you pass tests efficiently. You can learn about their reputation through industry forums, peer recommendations, or by consulting the laboratory’s past cases.

• Service Content and Added Value: Understand whether the laboratory offers one-stop services (e.g., pre-testing, rectification suggestions, assistance with applications for Energy Star/DLC certifications). Some laboratories also provide TM-21 lifetime prediction reports based on LM-80 data, which is valuable for product promotion.

• Testing Cycle and Cost: LM-80 testing is time-consuming and costly. Clarify the testing duration and total cost in advance, and understand the cost breakdown. Also, ask whether expedited services are available (which usually incur additional fees).

• Communication and Report Quality: Choose a laboratory with smooth communication and timely responses. A clear, detailed, and standard-compliant test report is crucial to meet your subsequent certification and market needs.

Introduction and Value of LM-80 Testing

LM-80 (officially known as IES LM-80) is a test method standard for evaluating the lumen maintenance (luminous flux decay) and color maintenance (color shift) of LED devices (including packages, arrays, or modules). It is published by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA).

• Testing Requirements: Testing is typically conducted at a minimum of 2 temperature points (commonly 55°C, 85°C, and temperatures specified by the manufacturer) for a minimum duration of 6,000 hours (10,000 hours is recommended).

• Testing Value: Obtaining an LM-80 test report enables the following:

  1. Support Energy Efficiency Certifications: It is a key basis for applying for certifications such as U.S. Energy Star, DLC (DesignLights Consortium), and China Energy Label, often shortening the certification cycle or exempting products from certain tests.
  2. Evaluate Product Lifetime: Combined with the TM-21 standard, it can predict the long-term lifetime of LEDs (e.g., L70 lifetime, the time it takes for light output to drop to 70% of the initial value).
  3. Enhance Product Competitiveness: An authoritative LM-80 report is a strong proof of product performance and quality, boosting customer confidence and brand reputation.

Next-Step Recommendations

1. Clarify Requirements: Confirm your testing objectives (e.g., applying for specific certifications, R&D verification, market promotion), budget, and timeline.
2. Preliminary Contact: Select 2-3 laboratories based on your needs (e.g., GTG Group, contact: 13925582920) and communicate with them initially via phone or email. Request qualification documents (e.g., scope of CNAS/NVLAP certificates) to confirm that LM-80 testing is within their accredited scope.
3. Request Proposals and Quotes: Provide basic product information (e.g., LED specifications, target markets) to the laboratories and ask for detailed test proposals and quotes.
4. Compare and Decide: Comprehensive compare the qualifications, quotes, testing cycles, and service details of each laboratory to select the partner that best meets your needs.