Diagram showing LED lumen degradation over time
Lumen degradation refers to the gradual decrease in luminous output of an LED fixture over time. For lighting projects or trade clients, this means rising maintenance costs and a direct impact on return on investment (ROI) and product reliability.

I. The Nature of Lumen Degradation and the Industry Pain Point

lumen depreciation based on LED junction temperature

Example of lumen depreciation, over time, based on junction temperature. Source: Lighting Research Center

Because when brightness drops by more than 30%, the human eye can clearly perceive the dimming. Therefore, the industry generally defines the “L70 point” — when brightness falls to 70% — as the end of the LED’s useful life.Whether this lifespan meets the promised duration depends on the synergy between thermal management, current control, and material reliability.

Core Factor: Chip Junction Temperature (Tj)

  • Excess heat is the main culprit: About 80% of electrical energy converts to heat. If heat is not efficiently dissipated, the chip’s junction temperature rises rapidly.
  • Result: High junction temperature accelerates chip aging and phosphor decay, leading to faster brightness loss.

Industry Pain: Promised Lifetime Not Achieved

Many market products show severe light decay within just two years due to poor thermal design or unstable current control. Only a balanced approach across thermal, electrical, optical, and material systems ensures a reliable LED lifetime promise.

II. Four Technical Strategies to Minimize Lumen Degradation

1. Superior Thermal Management

LED heat dissipation

Efficient thermal design is the foundation of LED longevity

Key StrategyTechnical Details & Advantages【Product Example】
Precise Junction Temperature ControlKeep LED junction temperature ≤85°C as a scientific basis for lifespan assurance.250W T-Shape Bulb adopts high-conductivity aluminum, achieving an extended L70 lifetime.
Passive Cooling DesignUtilizes high-conductivity aluminum for passive heat dissipation and maintenance-free operation.Industrial-grade T-series design acts as an integrated heat sink system.

2. Stable Driver & Current Control

constant current circuit

Key StrategyTechnical Details & Advantages【Product Example】
De-rated Operation DesignReserves current margin to reduce heat and ensure longer operational life.LED chips run at optimal temperature for consistent performance.
High-Precision Constant Current DriverCurrent fluctuation ≤5%, preventing surge damage and ensuring light stability.All product lines feature branded constant-current drivers with excellent voltage tolerance.

3. Advanced Material System

Typical components found in an LED fixture

High-quality materials maintain color stability and optical consistency

Key StrategyTechnical Details & Advantages【Product Example】
Premium Encapsulation and PhosphorLow-decay silicone and high-temperature phosphor prevent yellowing and lumen drop.Ensures consistent color temperature even after years of operation.
Anti-Corrosion Coating ProcessSpecial anti-sulfidation coating on electrode junctions prevents chemical damage.Purification lamps designed for harsh or chemical-rich environments.

4. Environmental Protection & Sealing

LED IP65 waterproof

High-seal structure ensures long-term performance in demanding conditions

Key StrategyTechnical Details & Advantages【Product Example】
High Protection Rating DesignIP65~IP66 waterproof and dustproof protection for extended durability.Tri-proof / Ceiling Lamps designed for humid and dusty environments.

III. Contact Us — Reliable Technology for Your LED Projects

LED manufacturing

We specialize in the integrated optimization of thermal, electrical, and material systems to deliver high-stability, long-lifetime LED lighting for global partners.

For detailed product catalogs, L70 lifetime test reports, or OEM/ODM cooperation, please feel free to reach out.

【Contact Us Now for Full Technical Specs & Quotation Support】

[SHAOXING CHANTY LIGHTING CO., LTD] | 🌐 [okaybright.com] | 📧 [kevin@yleds.com] | ☎ [+86 151 6756 6359]

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