Colour temperature (Kelvin)
- Updated:
- By: Kevin van Mierlo
Contents
What is colour temperature?
Definition
In lighting terms, people sometimes talk about ‘cold’ and ‘warm’ light. Many people will immediately think of the heat emitted by a light, but that is not what is meant here. ‘Cold’ or ‘warm’ light refers to how the light appears – in other words, its beam pattern. The higher the Kelvin value, the ‘colder’ and white the light will appear. The lower the Kelvin value, the ‘warmer’ and more yellow the light will appear. Kelvin (K) is the unit used to measure colour temperature. Anything up to 3000 K is warm light (more yellow) and anything above that is referred to as cold (white) light. A candle emits a yellow colour and has a Kelvin value of 1800. An incandescent or halogen light emits 2700 Kelvin. A fluorescent tube has a value of 4,500–6,500 Kelvin. With clear daylight, we move into the higher Kelvin range. Clear daylight has a Kelvin value of 5,500–6,000.
Colour temperature in LED lighting
LED lighting does not have an exact colour temperature. This is because LED lighting is available across a wide range of colour temperatures. As a result, you are not restricted to a particular colour. An LED driving light emits a powerful white light and has a colour temperature of round 4000 to 6000 Kelvin. Interior lighting emits a cool white colour and has a colour temperature of round 4500 Kelvin.
How many Kelvin does my light need?
When choosing the right LED light, you will need to consider the right colour temperature. First consider the main purpose of the lighting. Is the lighting intended for inside your commercial vehicle or outside? A warm white colour temperature creates an atmosphere-enhancing character and is therefore more suitable inside your vehicle. Are you looking for matching LED lighting for your vehicle, but can't find it yourself? TRALERT® is ready to support you 5 days a week.
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Author
Kevin van Mierlo
Lighting expert at TRALERT® - Kevin tests lighting and finds out everything about legislation. He can tell you all about it.
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