When it comes to the quality of our luminaires, we make no compromises, as it is the fundamental prerequisite for the efficiency, safety, and durability of our solutions. Christian Rocholl, Head of Quality Management at TRILUX, gives us an insight into the process.

New development - quality requirements defined right from the start

In the process of developing a new luminaire, approximately 25 employees in Quality Management play a crucial role from the outset. Even before the initial design phase, the team works closely with specialized departments to establish the quality requirements for the new development, such as the degree of protection.

This process leads to various tests that the luminaire must undergo. These tests are conducted in three of our laboratories by a team of approximately 25 other employees. Through a clearly defined feedback cycle, a prototype undergoes continuous refinement until it passes the set test criteria. Typically, a maximum of three rounds is necessary. To guarantee the credibility of our test results, our laboratories are certified and registered as partners with the VDE Certification Institute, providing official document status to our test reports.

The electromechanical laboratory - the endurance tests

At our electromechanical laboratory, we conduct a diverse range of technical tests and measurements to ensure that our products comply with both normative and legal requirements. These laboratories support the product development process and the creation of customer-specific SOF luminaires. Additionally, they assess OEM products from our suppliers and advise the quality department in the event of complaints. As a registered partner in the "Test Data Acceptance Program" (TDAP) of the VDE testing and certification institute, the TRILUX E-Laboratory is equipped to conduct normative measurements and produce test reports recognized by the VDE.

Another focal point is obtaining product certifications, such as the ENEC certificate, to support our sales activities. In pursuit of this, we work with various external testing bodies (VDE, DEKRA, TÜV, UL). Before the luminaires are launched to the market, the e-laboratory conducts all tests mandated by standards for the legally required EU declarations of conformity and UKCA documents. For example, these include:

  • Testing the electrical and mechanical safety of luminaires and components.
  • Testing of heat and fire resistance and resistance to fire and ignition.
  • Endurance tests at elevated ambient temperatures.
  • Protection class tests of luminaires against the ingress of solid foreign bodies, dust and water.
  • Testing of mechanical strength, load tests, wind and snow load.
  • Acoustic measurements to assess the noise emission.
  • Moisture and salt spray tests.
  • Ballproof tests for sports hall luminaires.

The EMC laboratory - interference-free

In our EMC laboratory, we examine the electromagnetic compatibility of our lights. This examination is crucial because electronic switching power supplies used in LEDs can produce phenomena that may disrupt other systems, such as radio communication. Additionally, luminaires must withstand electromagnetic interference events, such as lightning strikes. Through rigorous testing in the EMC laboratory, we guarantee compliance with European standards and limit values, ensuring our luminaires are interference-free.

Lighting laboratory - the light on the test bench

In our lighting technology laboratory, the primary focus is on the light itself, as the name suggests. For instance, we use an integrating sphere to examine the luminous flux of a luminaire and the spectral composition of the light. Another impressive testing instrument is the rotating mirror goniophotometer. Through skilful rotation of the mirrors, the three-dimensional light distribution of a luminaire can be accurately recorded. This data is the basis for generating the light distribution curves used in lighting design programs such as DIALux and Relux. We also use the instruments to develop new high-performance optics.

Check, check, check - from incoming goods to final inspection

Even after a new luminaire successfully passes all the tests in our laboratories, further tests and examinations are conducted. This is because the laboratory tests are only a small aspect of our quality management, which spans from incoming goods inspections to a final inspection. Each luminaire undergoes another thorough check for safety and functionality before delivery.

Dust collector of the week: The E-Line Next LED is tested for IP 64 protection against dust. For three hours, over and over again.

Still completely sealed? If you want to achieve protection class IP 64, you must withstand 20 minutes of splashing water from all directions. Our E-Line Next LED naturally stays cool and dry on the inside.

This includes verifying the correct earthing of all components and ensuring the luminaire functions are 100 percent, including all features, such as dimming. Ultimately, our customers receive exactly what they want: a luminaire guaranteed to meet the highest quality standards.