Work light testing

The experts at DLG TestService test work lights both in the laboratory and under practical conditions to assess their technical characteristics. Durability parameters, such as shock and vibration resistance, are verified based on external test reports.

Testkriterien

Light output

  • Light distribution is measured in the laboratory and illustrated under real-world conditions. The mounting height is 2.5 m with a tilt of –15°.
  • The results of an H3 work light and a no-name LED work light are shown for subjective comparison. Light output is evaluated in lumens per watt.

Color rendering

  • The color rendering of work lights is measured under standardized laboratory conditions. Studies show that a natural, daylight-like color rendering significantly improves the sense of safety during night operations and reduces driver fatigue.
  • When interpreting the color rendering index (CRI), note that the reference value of 100% corresponds to the light spectrum of a halogen lamp. The lower the CRI value, the greater the deviation from the natural halogen light spectrum.

Color temperature

  • Alongside color rendering, color temperature is an important parameter for assessing the naturalness of a light source. The further the value deviates from 5000 K, the less natural the light appears.
  • Testing is based on the requirements of UN-ECE R46. The work light must comply with the tolerance range defined in this standard. Any unusual laboratory results are verified in a practical test setup and documented in the test report.

Vibration and shock resistance

  • Mechanical loads are tested according to ISO 16750-3.
  • For vibration resistance, the test cycle “Passenger car, sprung masses (body)” is the minimum requirement. If the cycle “Commercial vehicle, decoupled cab” is also met, this is rated as good.
  • For shock resistance, the test cycle “Rigidly mounted parts” is the basic requirement. If the cycle “Parts in doors and flaps” is also met, this is rated as good.
  • No mechanical damage may occur in any test cycle.

Ingress protection (IP Rating)

  • Ingress protection is assessed based on manufacturer-provided test reports. The test item, including all connectors, must meet at least IP67 requirements, meaning the housing is dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion.
  • If protection against continuous immersion (IP68) is achieved, this is rated as good.
  • If all components also meet the requirements for high-pressure cleaning (IP69), this is rated as very good.

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)

  • All work lights must meet at least the requirements of UN-ECE R10. If they also achieve EMC Class 5 (CISPR 25), this is rated as good.
  • Class 5 compliance is particularly advantageous for modern machinery, as it helps prevent interference with the tractor’s onboard electronics.

Handling and operation

  • Reverse polarity protection is tested in the laboratory by connecting the work light to the maximum input voltage with reversed polarity for one minute at 25 °C. No damage may occur.
  • Surface temperature is measured using a thermal imaging camera at 25 °C to ensure protection against burns. According to DIN EN ISO 13732-1, the maximum housing temperature must not exceed 70 °C. A temperature below 55 °C is rated as good, and below 44 °C as very good.