Have you ever noticed the difference in sunlight in the morning, afternoon, and evening? Or why different light bulbs give a different feel and mood to the environment? These differences are due to a concept called “color temperature of light.” In this article from EDC, we are going to take a closer look at the color temperature of light, its importance in lighting, and its effect on different spaces.

What is color temperature of light?

Color temperature of light simply states what color the light of a light source is closest to. This concept is measured by comparing the light emitted by a black body at different temperatures with the desired light. The unit of measurement for color temperature of light is Kelvin (K). The higher the Kelvin temperature, the colder the light appears, and the lower the Kelvin temperature, the warmer the light appears.

Scientific Definition of Color Temperature of Light in Lighting

Color temperature of light is actually a measure that helps determine the color quality of the light emitted by a light source. In practice, this temperature can be simulated using a hypothetical blackbody that is heated to different temperatures. As the temperature of the object increases, the color of the light moves towards cooler (blue) spectra and vice versa.

Why is it important to know the color temperature of light in lighting?

Knowing the color temperature of light is very important in lighting and has a direct impact on the quality and performance of light in different environments.

The color temperature of light can significantly affect the atmosphere and emotions of the environment.
In office and educational lighting, using light with a high color temperature can help improve people’s concentration.
Cool, neutral white light can provide a suitable environment for intellectual activities and prevent eye fatigue.
Knowing the color temperature of light will help you make the right choice for lighting different spaces. For example, warm white light is suitable for domestic spaces, while cool white light works better for commercial and industrial environments.
The right lighting can help attract customers, increase sales, and create a positive experience for visitors.
Different Colors of Light and Their Uses

Color Temperature of Light in Different Lamps

The following is a review of the common color temperatures of light in different types of lamps and the characteristics of each:

1. LED lamps

LED lamps are available with color temperatures from 2700K to 6500K. These types of lamps have a wide range of color temperatures and are suitable for different types of spaces due to their high efficiency and low energy consumption.

For bedroom lighting, warm white light with a color temperature of 2700K is usually used,
while offices and educational environments require natural or neutral white light with a color temperature of 4000K.
For industrial spaces and outdoor environments, cool white light with a color temperature of 5000K and above is suitable.

2. Fluorescent lamps

Fluorescent lights have a color temperature between 3000K and 6500K. These types of lights are suitable for educational and office spaces due to their uniform light and relatively low energy consumption.

For educational spaces and offices, light with a color temperature of 4000K is suitable.
For stores and commercial environments, cool white light with a color temperature of 5000K is needed.
3. Color temperature of light in halogen lights

Halogen lights have a color temperature in the range of 2700K to 3000K. This type of light is suitable for spaces such as bedrooms and living rooms because it creates a warm and natural feeling. Also, light with a color temperature of 3000K is suitable for galleries and exhibitions that need natural and accurate light.

4. Metal halide lights

Metal halide lights produce a color temperature in the range of 4000K to 6000K. These lights with bright and neutral light are suitable for large environments and commercial spaces.

To provide lighting in warehouses and factories, light with a color temperature of 4000K
For outdoor or industrial areas, light with a color temperature of 5000K to 6000K is suitable.
5. Sodium vapor lights

Sodium vapor lights have a color temperature between 2000K and 2200K. These lights produce a warm, yellow light and are usually used in streets and public areas. Due to their long lifespan and low energy consumption, they are suitable for open spaces and parking lots.

6. Color temperature of HID lights

HID lights have a color temperature between 4000K and 6000K. These lights produce strong and bright light that is suitable for industrial environments and large areas. The long lifespan and good light distribution make these lights ideal for use in warehouses, factories and open spaces.

How to calculate the color temperature of light?

Calculating the color temperature of light helps you determine what color the light produced by a light source is and whether it is suitable for certain applications. Here are different methods for calculating the color temperature of light:

1. Use a spectrometer

One of the most accurate ways to determine the color temperature of light is to use a spectrometer. This device is able to analyze the spectrum of light produced by a light source and calculate its color temperature.

Spectrometer: By measuring the light spectrum and analyzing it, the color temperature of light is calculated in Kelvin (K).

2. View light characteristics and use tables

To estimate the color temperature of light, you can use the characteristics of light and compare it to existing standards. Lights are usually divided into three main categories:

Warm light (2700K to 3000K): Yellow and orange light that is suitable for creating a warm atmosphere.
Natural or neutral light (3000K to 4000K): Natural white light that is suitable for spaces that require accurate color representation.
Cool light (5000K and above): Bright white light with a slight blue tint that is suitable for spaces that require high concentration and energy.
3. Use color temperature calculation software

There are various software programs that can help you calculate the color temperature of light based on the characteristics of the measured light. These programs usually include databases of different light characteristics and can estimate the color temperature with good accuracy.

Online software: There are online tools to enter light characteristics and calculate the color temperature.
Popular software for calculating the color temperature of light: LightCalc, SpectraSuite, ColorMunki, EasyRGB, LightTools, Photometric Toolbox, etc.

4. Consulting with manufacturers and suppliers

Manufacturers and suppliers of lighting equipment provide detailed information about the color temperature of their products. Reviewing the technical specifications of the products and consulting with experts can help you determine the appropriate color temperature.

5. Practical tests

One of the simple methods for determining color temperature is to test the light in the environment. By using different lamps and observing their effect on the environment, you can simulate and select the desired color temperature.

The best ideas for combining light and how to implement it

Combining lights means using different types of light color temperatures in a space. This method can have many benefits:

By combining warm and cool light, you can create the desired atmosphere for different spaces.
Different lights can highlight certain features of a space or objects.
Combining different lights can improve lighting and reduce eye fatigue.
Light Combination Ideas
Bedroom: Use warm light to create relaxation and natural light for daily tasks.
Work environments: Combine natural white light for good lighting and cool light for high concentration and reduce fatigue.
Parks and streets: Combine cool light for safety lighting and warm light to create a pleasant and attractive atmosphere in park lighting as well as street lighting.

Summary
The color temperature of light plays a very important role in lighting an environment. By accurately understanding the color temperature of light and choosing it correctly for different environments, you can have a great impact on the feel and mood of the space. If you are looking for the right lighting products for your lighting needs, you can get the necessary guidance from EDC experts. EDC experts will help you choose and purchase the best product according to your taste, desired space, and budget.