Lamps are critical to outdoor lighting, but their exposure to moisture, oxygen and salt can cause corrosion, reducing their lifespan and performance. This article walks you through how to protect your outdoor light fixtures from corrosion to prolong their life and ensure optimal performance.
Why do lamps rust and corrode
Corrosion is the gradual destruction of a material due to chemical reactions with the environment. It weakens lamps and lanterns, reducing their lifespan. Moisture, oxygen, and salts cause corrosion in lamps and lanterns. When exposed, they can react with metal surfaces, leading to rust and other forms of corrosion.
Methods to prevent corrosion of lamps and lanterns
clean
Cleaning lamps and lanterns is an essential method to prevent corrosion. The steps include removing dirt and debris, scrubbing with a cleaning solution, and drying thoroughly. The advantages are that it’s inexpensive and straightforward, but it needs to be done regularly to be effective.
maintain
Proper maintenance, such as tightening screws and fixing damages, can prevent corrosion. The steps involve regular inspection and addressing any issues immediately. The advantages are that it can prolong the lifespan of lamps and lanterns, but it can be time-consuming and costly.
protective coating
Applying protective coatings, such as paint or powder coating, can prevent corrosion. The steps involve surface preparation, applying the coating, and allowing it to dry. The advantages are that it can be long-lasting and effective, but it may require professional application and be expensive.
Choose Corrosion Resistant Materials
Choosing corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel, brass, or aluminum, is a preventative measure against corrosion. The steps involve understanding the properties of the materials and choosing the appropriate one. The advantages are that it’s a long-term solution, but it can be more expensive upfront and limit design options.
How to clean and maintain lamps and lanterns regularly
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for preventing corrosion in luminaires. Neglecting these tasks can lead to the buildup of contaminants, weakening the fixture’s structure and accelerating the corrosion process, shortening its lifespan.
Follow the steps below for cleaning and maintenance:
- Turn off the power and remove the jig.
- Use a soft brush or soft cloth to remove any debris, dirt or grime.
- Thoroughly clean the surface with a cleaning solution appropriate for the luminaire material.
- Check the clamp for any damage or loose screws and tighten if necessary.
- Apply a protective coating to the fixture to prevent further corrosion.
- Reinstall the jig and turn on the power.
- Repeat this process regularly to maintain the life and performance of the light fixture.
How to choose the right protective coating
Lamp and lantern lifespans can be prolonged and corrosion prevented by using protective coatings. Common protective coatings include paint, powder coating, and anodizing.
Paint:
Paint is a popular option for lamps and lanterns due to its affordability, ease of application, and ability to be matched with various color schemes. However, its tendency to chip and peel can cause the fixture to become vulnerable to corrosion.
Step：
- Clean the surface of the fixture
- Apply a primer to the fixture
- Allow the primer to dry
- Apply the paint to the fixture
- Allow the paint to dry
Powder coating:
Powder coating provides a long-lasting, scratch-resistant coating that surpasses paint’s durability. However, it may not offer the same color customization options as paint and may be more expensive.
Step：
- Clean the surface of the fixture
- Apply the powder coating with a spray gun
- Bake the fixture in an oven to cure the powder coating
Anodizing:
Anodizing provides a long-lasting, hard, and corrosion-resistant coating that surpasses the lifespan of both paint and powder coating. However, it can be an expensive option and not always possible for all types of fixtures.
Step：
- Clean the surface of the fixture
- Dip the fixture in an acid bath
- Apply an electric current to the bath to create a protective oxide layer on the fixture
- Rinse and dry the fixture
Protective coatings can be beneficial in preventing corrosion if they are applied correctly, despite each type having its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right coating for your fixture’s setting and materials is critical to achieving the highest level of protection.
Choose Corrosion Resistant Materials
Choosing the right material for your light fixture can prevent corrosion and extend its life. Commonly used corrosion-resistant materials for lamps are stainless steel, plastic, aluminum, brass, etc. These materials are specifically designed to withstand exposure to the environment and provide long-term corrosion protection.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is an excellent choice for light fixtures because of its high corrosion resistance and durability. It also has a sleek, modern look that will add to the aesthetics of any room. However, it is more expensive than other materials and can be difficult to mold into intricate designs. Tips for choosing stainless steel for luminaires include considering the environment in which the luminaire will be used, as well as the overall design of the luminaire.
plastic
Plastic is a popular lighting material because it is lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to shape into a variety of designs. However, it is not as corrosion resistant as other materials, so it may not last as long. Tips for choosing plastics for luminaires include considering the environment in which the luminaire will be used and the overall design of the luminaire.
Aluminum
Aluminum is an excellent choice for light fixtures because it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It also has a modern look that will add to the aesthetics of any room. However, it is more expensive than other materials and can be difficult to mold into intricate designs. Tips for choosing aluminum for luminaires include considering the environment in which the luminaire will be used, as well as the overall design of the luminaire.
Brass
Brass is a popular lighting material for its classic look and corrosion resistance. It’s also relatively cheap and easy to shape into intricate designs. However, it is heavier than other materials, so it may not be suitable for some applications. Tips for choosing brass for light fixtures include considering the environment in which the light will be used and the overall design of the light.
To choose the right material for your light fixture, consider the specific needs of your project, including environment, cost, and expected lifetime. Regardless of the material used, it is also important to properly maintain and clean the light fixture to ensure its longevity.
Conclusion
Corrosion protection is essential to prolong the life of the luminaire. Appropriate materials and protective layers should be selected according to the environment in which the lamp is used and the overall design of the lamp.
For high-salt and high-acid environments such as the seaside, Lacelesty’s LED luminaires use AkzoNobel powder coating to ensure maximum protection against corrosion. Contact us today to learn more about our corrosion-resistant lighting solutions and how they can help you extend the lifespan of your lamps and lanterns.
