Manufacturing
Manufacturing High-Quality, High-Reliability LED Lights
While the design is one critical factor in the reliability, longevity, and quality of the LED-based lighting platform, the other critical factor is the manufacturing. Here is where optics, thermal management, electronic components, and the LED device come together into one cohesive product.
Keys to producing high-quality, reliable products are sincere commitments to programs such as:
- Design for Manufacture (DFM)
- Total Quality Control (TQC)
- Six Sigma
- Reliability testing: Severe environmental and life tests performed before a new product is released for sale
In the frantic rush to cash in on the LED lighting revolution, there are companies that knowingly or unknowingly take the short cuts that result in bad designs coming to market, as well as products not manufactured with the expected level of quality. Signs of poorly manufactured LED products can result products that last only a few days—rather than 50,000 hours, inconsistent color, and even electrical problems that can cause fires.