Fire rated downlights, features and benefits, fire protection recessed lights

There are some fire rated downlights introduced on our website, via the Ceiling Lights section, and Aurora has a say in this matter – read about the technology behind the fire-rated downlights. Below is a picture explaining the main technologies/parts incorporated in such a fire protection recessed fixed light, and some of the features and benefits of using these fittings.

• Quick fit cable grip allows loop-in, loop-out wiring;
• Superior ventilation for optimum lamp & downlight operating temperature;
• Integrated intumescent material seals downlight;
• High quality cast aluminium lock ring downlight;
• Springs for installation in ceiling materials up to 35mm;
• Recessed spring mountings for maximum cut-out clearance.

Features and Benefits of the Fire Rated Downlights

• F-Mark Approved
  Thermal tested and approved for mounting on normally flammable surfaces to comply with.
• F-Marking requirements
  Suitable for continuous usage with 50W Halogen lamps.
• Full Range of Compatible Accessories
  Floating glasses, slotted & coloured lock ring accessories to customise your installation and create varied lighting effect.
• Maintains the Ceiling Fire Barrier Integrity
  In compliance with the Building Regulations Approved Document B – Fire Safety.
• Maintains the Dwellings’ Air Leakage Requirements
  Products include seals to help compliance with Part C & L of the Building Regulations.
• Maintains the Ceiling’s Acoustic Properties
  In compliance with the Building Regulations Approved Document E – Resistance to the Passage of Sound.
• Simple and Versatile Installation
  Installation no different to a standard downlight. Suitable for installation in ceiling materials up to 35mm thick.
• Lamp Compatibility
  Designed for continuous use with both Dichroic & Aluminium reflector lamps.
• Integrated Intumescent Material
  Incorporated in the downlight completely seals the downlight and cut-out in the event of a fire.

Buy online Fire Rated Downlights via Sparksdirect.

Mains voltage track lights and low energy 12V track systems, Illuma and Powerlite

On our blog we have talked extensively about the Illuma Track Lights and the Powerlite Track Systems. From Illuma, via sparksdirect.co.uk, you can find both mains voltage track systems(the 1-circuit tracks) and the low voltage track systems(the Marktrack and the Trac12 fittings), while Powerlite is represented on Sparks by its Sirius 1 range of 12V Track System. You can find so much more about the way the track systems are composed and fitted together, the components and the track fittings that belong to certain ranges, etc – visiting the specific links provided below.

• The Illuma Low Voltage Track Lights
  - The Illuma track lighting systems, the track12, miniature 2A track system
  Read about the lamp description, the technical data, and some of the fittings that compose the Illuma Trac12 system. Also, read more about the composition of the Illuma Trac12 miniature track system. Buy online the Illuma Track12 lights – for small spaces – and see online what is the Illuma Trac12 composed of.
  - The Illuma MarkTrack low voltage track lights, with live-end & dead-end
  Read more in this article about the features and existing models / packs / lamps from the Illuma MarkTrack range. Also, find our more about the Illuma Marktrack, the available components and track packs. Buy online Illuma MarkTrack fittings and packs – and see online what is Illuma MarkTrack composed of.
• Low Voltage Track Lights from Powerlite – Sirius 1
  - The Low voltage tracks, Powerlite Sirius 1, 12V flexible track system – The Powerlite Sirius 1 tracks is an extremely neat and discrete low voltage track system with a full range of colours, finishes and accessories. Read more in this article about the features of this 12V track fittings system from Powerlite, and the track fittings that go/match with the Powerlite Sirius 1.
• Mains Voltage Track Lights
  - The Illuma 1-circuit Track Lights, popular mains voltage track system – This is the most popular and also the most used Track System from Illuma, a 16A track, connector and accessory track system. Read more in this article about the Features and Components/Options of the Illuma 1-circuit Track System. Find out more about the making of a single circuit Illuma track system, components – what is the system composed of.

New lights, new blog, and new Whole House Ventilation system

It’s all new – we have been working hard this past week to put out many many new things and items, like – new light fittings, a new blog, and a new whole house ventilation system.

New Lights for indoors and outdoors

• New outdoor wall lights, exterior light fixtures, lamps and eyelids, LEDS-C4 made;
• New Outdoor Wall Lights and Spotlights, single or twin wall lamps, LEDS-C4 made, part 2;
• New Outdoor Ceiling Lights, Exterior Pendants and Flush Fittings, LEDS-C4 made;
• Momo Swing Arm Wall Light, switched wall mounted lamp with white/black shade;
• Indoor and outdoor lights – the new additions at SparksDirect;

A new blog – with New Lights from Sparks & Lights

• There are many different kinds of light fittings you can purchase via Sparks & Lights;
• New blog: Introducing the new lights for interior and/or exterior found at SparksDirect;
• New Bathroom Light: Palermo 1200, Longer Over-mirror Strip Light;

New Whole House Ventilation System – the AiroVent

• Not a simple, common system, but a Whole House Ventilation – Extractor Fan;
• The Airovent WHV-8 and WHV 8-14 – extracting the stale air from the whole house;
• More details and technical specs from the manufacturer(Airflow) – about the Airovent;

Illuma tracklights, track spotlights, track fittings, the ranges

We have started introducing a series of track spotlights from Illuma, which can be followed by the tags Illuma Track Lights and Track Systems. Here are some of the more important ranges, all of them available via the Track Lights – Illuma Track Spotlights.

The Illuma Rocket Track Lights

The Rocket range of Track Lights from Illuma is an essential range of compact spotlights for mains operated PAR halogen reflector lamps. They are specifically designed for universal applications. Available with the normal lamp version and with the cone lamps, this series of Spotlights is for the 1-circuit track. As to the usage, the Illuma Rocket is ideal for highlighting and general lighting in retail, commercial and domestic applications, particularly where unobtrusive miniature fittings are required. Read more in this article about the general features of this range of Illuma Rocket Track Lights, some technical data, the materials used for its construction, and the available models (T325WH, T326WH, T327WH and T328WH)- buy online the Illuma Rocket Spotlights via Sparksdirect – the best price online!

Illuma Electrostar, Lightweight Track Spotlights

Part of the Illuma Track Lights, the 1-circuit track lighting systems, the Illuma Electrostar range is a series of compact, lightweight spotlights for mains track or surface mounting. They are ideal for both highlighting and general lighting in retail, commercial and leisure environments. Read more in this article online about the Illuma Electrostar’s features, the lamp data & the materials used for this series of spotlights.

Illuma Lumapar, Discreet Track Spotlights

The Illuma Lumapar range of track spotlights belongs to a flexible range of discreet spotlights for mains tungsten halogen lamps not requiring a transformer. They are ideal for highlighting and general lighting in retail, commercial and domestic applications, particularly where unobtrusive miniature fittings are required. The Illuma Lumapar range has twelve styles in white, black or silver-grey (all) or chrome finish (TM3210/S, TM3220/S, TM3410/S and TM3420/S only); the standard track versions are for use with Illuma 1-circuit track; all can be also used as surface-mounting versions. Read more in this article online about some of the features of the Lumapar range, the lamp details, technical data, and the materials used for this range.

Illuma Electrospot, Highlighting Track lights

The Illuma ElectroSpot range of track lights has a timeless design for use on mains track or surface mounting. This range is ideal for both highlighting and general lighting. The quality of lighting is given also by the new illumaled lamp technology.

Read more in this article online about the features of the Electrospot range, the ease of installation, the lamp description, some technical data, the materials used, and the Illuma Electrospot versions available.

Illuma Topspot, Surface or Track Light

One of the most popular track light fitting range from Illuma, the Illuma Topspot T310 / T410 is a simple yet versatile range of spotlights for mounting on a 1-circuit track, accepting reflector, PAR and GLS lamps. The Topspot T310 range is a track mounted spotlight, and the Topspot T410 is a surface mounted spotlight – whether you need the spot light to be surface or track mounted, we have the right solution for you! Read more in this article online about the Topspot features, details about the installation, lamp features, some technical data, and the materials used.

Illuma Concepta Robust diecast tracklights

One of the most popular and much appreciated ranges from Illuma, the Illuma Concepta range of track lights, is a robust, diecast aluminium range of spotlights, with fully adjustable body and head. These track light fittings are ideal for accent lighting in retail, commercial and leisure environments. This article introduces the Illuma Concepta range(especially the Concepta TH3111X series) – Find out more about the technical specs of this track light fitting, details about the 2 series in this range, and more about the Concepta TH3111X – features, installation, lamp description, the materials used, and some technical data.

Excellent Lights, One of a Kind – 10 amazing light fittings for the first to grab them!

We go through our Lights collection periodically, and the ones that are no longer manufactured, but we have them on display in stock, we list them at Ex-Display, Collection Only section. These are “One Of a Kind – Unique Light Fittings” – for in-store pick-up only. Being EOL(End Of Line) does not mean that they are not nice – check out below this list of 10 amazing light fittings available for the first one to come and get them!

Left: Laser arrow step light in pressed steel case with arrow cut out design. Requires 12V 60VA transformer which will run up to 12 fittings. Lamp included. Price: £20.00 (Save: 38% off, was: £32)
Right: Walkie Talkie Square waterproof recessed downlight for floor or solid wall. Optional housing for concrete(see below). Also suitable for external use. Price: £75.00 (Save: 50% off, was: £150).

Left: Murano Onda 30P satin-finish, curved and silk-screened glass with chromed detail wall light. Can be mounted adjacent to each other for effective. Price: £68.00 (Save: 55% off; was £152.00).
Right: Nemo Auriga square opal white glass wall light with blue glass inner circle. Lamp not included. Price: £48.00 (Save: 71% off; was: £165.00).

Left: Ferrara matt nickel wall light with five opal white glass shades. Low voltage fitting with integral transformer. Lamps included. Price: £65.00 (Save: 58% off; was: £156)
Right: Sestri ceramic square wall light. Lamp not included. Sestri Wall Light. Price: £10.00 (Save: 69% off; was: £32.00)

Left: Nemo Jupiter halogen wall light in polished aluminium provided with red light filters. Halogen lamp gives warm light and excellent colour rendering. Price: £20.00 (Save: 67% off; was: £60.00)
Right: Madrid brushed steel wall light with acid etched glass allowing light to diffuse both upwards and downwards. Lamp included. Price: £30.00 (Save: 56% off; was: £68.00)

Left: Garden pedestal lantern in silver grey finish. For external use. Lamp not included. Price: £13.00 (Save: 66% off; was: £39.97)
Right: Murano VIP semi-recessed low voltage downlight with large crystal sphere in cast glass with air bubble effect on chromed metal fitting. Price: £70(Save: 63% off; was: £188.00)

And this is just a small selection of the many modern light fittings for indoor / outdoor you will find at Sparks & Lights Showroom – located in Archway, North London!

£152.00

Illuma Lights rocks – high quality IP rated Downlights and Wall Lights, good reviews!

We have started for a while now to go through the many ranges of Track Lights, Spotlights, Ceiling Lights, Wall Lights, etc – manufactured by Illuma, on our main blog – reviewing Illuma Lights. Here are the main ranges of wall lights and ceiling lights we covered so far:

Illuma Lumaseal – IP65 semi-flush wall/ceiling light

The Illuma Lumaseal range is a tough contender for numerous general and ambient lighting solutions. Its IP65 rated construction makes it suitable for interior wet environments as well as exterior usage. The Lumaseal range is represented on our site by DL3TD428 – Illuma Lumaseal IP65 semi-recessed light 28W – but if you require any other models, please let us know. Read more + view applications of the Lumaseal range of Lights.

Illuma Project 95 – Interior Classic Downlights

These nice small downlights from Illuma, the Project 95 range, are a series of classic, shallow-depth downlights. Ideal for both highlighting and general lighting in retail, commercial and general interior applications. Particularly, they are suitable where the ceiling void is shallow. Flexible recessed lights – the direction of the light can be modified as needed. Read more about the Illuma Project 95 range(including dimensions, applications, the full range, etc).

Illuma Proseal IP65 Die-Cast Downlights

Usage: This Illuma Proseal IP65 ceiling light is ideal for damp and humid environments, such as kitchens, bathrooms, showers and exterior soffits. The front glass pulls down easily for a quick lamp change. This range of downlights are either with a clear or with a frosted glass. Read more on our blog about some of the features of this downlight, the lamp features, some technical data, and the materials used for the Illuma Proseal IP rated downlight – see available models.

Read more about these ranges, and also about the other Illuma manufactured light fittings(like the spotlights and the tracklights) via our blog – Lights Reviews Online.

not just dimming the light: create the mood with Lutron Grafik 3000

The Grafik 3000 series of dimming systems from Lutron do not just dim the light – they create a mood at the simple touch of a button. With GRAFIK Eye and GRAFIK Integrale, each zone in a space is set at the appropriate level for the activity and saved together as one scene, retrievable later at the touch of a button. We have introduced the Lutron Dimmers and recommendations, a visual guide of the applications of the Lutron dimmers, and the Grafik 3000 + Grafik Integrale range via our blog. Yet there is more to say about these Lutron Dimming Systems, like:

• One stylish control replaces multiple switches and dimmers;
• Eliminate the guesswork of setting separate switches and dimmers every time;
• Slowly fade between lighting scenes — eyes have time to comfortably adjust;
• Add accessory wallstations to recall preset scenes from additional locations;
• Add interfaces for integration with AV systems and other equipment.

Some of the Lutron Grafik Eye 3000 applications – the difference

• Home cinema – The movie cannot begin until the lights dim.
• Lounges – Entertain guests, spend time with family, or watch TV.
• Dining room – Create the right lighting for intimate dining, family occasions, cocktail parties.
• conference room – Instantly transform a room for a general meeting, set up, AV presentation, or video conference.
• café – Create the perfect ambience for lunch meetings, cocktail hour, elegant dinners and clean-up.
• executive office – Create dynamic work spaces, reduce computer screen glare, and add infrared remote dimming  – with Lutron Grafik 3000 series.

Don’t just dim the light – create the desired mood with the touch of a button!

Set the scene(A scene is a programmed lighting environment designed to enhance a particular activity)

residential applications for the Grafik 3000 from Lutron - The Entertain Scene and the Movie Scene, with the Lighting Zone Levels

• The secret to great lighting is being able to control it.
• Match your activity or mood to your visual environment.
• Set the lights as you need them and the setting is automatically saved as one of your custom scenes.
• Retrieve it later at the touch of a button; no individual switches or dimmers to adjust again and again.

Commercial Applications of the Grafik 3000 from Lutron - the Special Event Scene and the All-On Scene, with the Lighting Zones Levels

More details with more models are listed on our website – Dimming Systems, Lutron Dimmers, Grafik Eye 3000 series. Buy online Lutron Grafik 3000 and Lutron Dimmers via SparksDirect – the best price online!

LUXOMAT energy saving single channel occupancy detector – surface or flush fitting

We have joined all the other voices online crying out for the more frequent use of more energy-saving solutions by introducing the PIR-presence detectors, the Time Lag switches, the B.E.G. Luxomat Detectors intro, some PIR detectors and info, the Illuma advice for energy saving, essential steps for saving the energy, google knol on energy saving, etc. To continue the introducing of the B.E.G Luxomat range of Occupancy Detectors, today we have the Luxomat PD3 series – single channel flush or surface mounted occupancy detectors. This range of detectors provides simple, localised control of the lighting or HVAC system, by automatically turning the load on when needed for indoor ceiling applications, with 360° coverage. The detector LUXOMAT® PD3-1C-SM is available in a e version with integrated acoustic sensor (micro version), can also cover persons who otherwise by the infrared radiation of the detector would not be recognized (e.g. in corners or behind walls)! Typical applications of the series of PD3 Luxomat Occupancy Detectors: monitoring of smaller areas like stairwells, private garages, galleries, wash rooms. Read more about the features and the technical data about this range.

Luxomat PD3 Occupancy Detector features

• Switches all types of light fixtures.
• Switches 2000W of incandescent or 1000W fluorescent load.
• 10m detection zone (5m seated, 6m walking towards and 10m walking across).
• 15 seconds to 30 minutes adjustable time delay.
• Models available: Surface mounted(SM) and Flush(FC) fittings.
• With or without acoustic sensor (micro).
• IP rating: SM is IP54, FC is IP20.
• 10 – 2000 Lux adjustable photocell.
• Manual controllable occupancy detector for inside use LUXOMAT® PD3-1C-SM/-FC/-FM PD3-1C-SM/-FC Micro for surface, false ceiling and flush mounting with circular detection area.
• One channel to switch the lighting.
• Switching for all types of light fixtures by high performance relay.
• Optical system, designed for highest sensitivity.
• Serial impulse function (gong).
• Sensitivity adjustment.
• SM fits onto conduit box.
• Buy the Luxomat PD3SM or Luxomat PD3FC via SparksDirect.

PD3 Occupancy Detectors – Technical Data

• Adjustments manual by potentiometer;
• Power supply: 230V~ +6%/-10%;
• Detection area: circular, 360°;
• Range in m (e.g.): Ø radius;
• Seated: 5.00 2.50;
• Walking across: 10.00 5.00;
• Walking towards: 6.00 3.00;
• Mounting height: 2 – 3m;
• Power consumption: < 1W;
• Light measuring: mixed light – artificial and daylight to control the light;
• Channel 1 (Control the lighting);
• Switching power: 2000W, 1000W; dry contact type: NO;
• Time settings: impulse or 30sec – 30min.;
• Light sensor: 10 – 2000Lux;
• Protection: SM IP54, FC and FM IP20, FC with accessory (92206) also IP23 / Class II / CE;
• Dimensions:
  - SM Ø 106 x H 52mm;
  - FC Ø 80 x H 84.5mm;
  - FM Ø 98 x H 65mm;
• Housing UV- and shock-resistant Polycarbonate;
• Ambient temperature: -25°C to +50°C.

To purchase the Flush Occupancy Presence detector Luxomat PD3FC or the Surface Mounted Occupancy Presence detector Luxomat PD3SM, visit the Occupancy Detectors&Switches category on our website.

energy saving solutions – save more than money with PIR presence detectors

To continue the same train of thought as we were having while introducing the Time Lag Switches(which are a good solution for the saving of the energy consumption) and the general intro for the PIR motion detectors, today we want to talk about a specific model – the SLFM360 from Timeguard – principles of functioning, where to locate it, and other features.

360º Flush Mount Ceiling PIR Light Controller – Features

• The SLFM360 utilises passive infrared technology to detect heat radiation of moving human bodies.
• Upon detection, the attached lighting load will illuminate for a user-determined time period.
• An integral daylight sensor ensures all day or night-only operation.
• Light Pollution and Considerate Lighting: Please be aware of the annoyance over-lighting an area can cause to your immediate neighbours.
• Light pollution caused by incorrectly installing a unit or over-lighting an area can be limited by carefully considering the location and position of your unit before installation.
• The light spread on all halogen floodlights can be reduced by angling the floodlight downwards on the mounting bracket.
• This will also concentrate the light on your property and limit the potential inconvenience of the light shining into your neighbours windows etc.
• Please see Selecting a Location for information on choosing the optimum location for any security light controlled by this unit.
• This product is suitable for indoor use only.
• Connected load must not exceed maximum 2000W filament/incandescent or 500W fluorescent/low energy lighting.
• Do not attempt to install if you are suffering from nausea or dizzy spells or on medication with similar side effects.
• If in any doubt, consult a qualified electrician.
• Not suitable for use with discharge lighting.

Parts included in the SLFM360 PIR presence detector

• PIR Sensor unit.
• Instruction manual. Please keep safe for future reference.
• Accessory Pack. Includes wiring cover, 2 x cable clamps, 4 x clamp screws and 1 x lens mask sticker.

Tools and parts you need for installation

• 3 core flexible cable.
• Electric/hand-held drill & bits.
• 75mm or 3 inch diameter hole cutter.
• Terminal or Electricians screwdriver.
• Small Philips screwdriver.
• Wire cutters.
• Suitable mains interconnect cable.

Selecting a location for the PIR presence detector

• The motion detector has a number of detection zones, at various vertical and horizontal angles as shown.
• A moving human body needs to cross/enter one of these zones to activate the sensor.
• The best all-round coverage is achieved with the unit mounted at the optimum height of 2.5m.
• Careful positioning of the sensor will be required to ensure optimum performance.
• The sensor is more sensitive to movement ACROSS its field of vision than to movement directly TOWARDS. Therefore position the unit so that the sensor looks ACROSS the likely approach path.
• Avoid positioning the sensor where there are any sources of heat in the detection area (extractor fans, tumble dryer exhausts etc.) including opposite any other light sources such as other security lights.
• Reflective surfaces (ie pools of water or white-painted walls) and overhanging branches may cause false activation under extreme conditions.
• During extreme weather conditions the motion sensor may exhibit unusual behaviour.
• This does not indicate a fault with the sensor.
• Once normal weather conditions return, the sensor will resume normal operation.

This SLFM360 is part of SparksDirect’s offer of Energy Management solutions – see the full offer on our website, or download the pdf catalogue.

Crystal ceiling or wall lights, the Fabbian Vicky and Cubetto ranges, Italian made Glass and Crystal Lamps

A simple look at the Fabbian ranges of wall lights, ceiling lights, pendant lights, floor/table lights will leave you speechless in admiration of the high quality and fine details of each range. Every range put out by this Italian Light Fitting Manufacturer – Fabbian – includes Ceiling Pendant Lights, Wall Lights(single light, double light, uplighter, downlighter, flexible of fixed), table lights, floor lights, Suspension Ceiling Lights, etc. Recently we took a closer look at the Fabbian Vicky range and the Fabbian Cubetto range, and see for yourself what we found out:

Fabbian Vicky Pendant, Ceiling and Wall Lights – Crystal Decorated Lamps

Have you ever heard of the Fabbian Vicky Crystal Decorated Pendant / Ceiling Light or the Fabbian Vicky Crystal Wall Lamp? It is one of those high class glass lamps hanging from the ceiling that you see in the “rich people” ’s homes – but now available for everyone to see, enjoy, check out, and order online! When I was looking at the pictures from Fabbian, the Vicky Range simply stood out – the modern and classy design, the peculiar glass shape, the decorated diffusers…. it’s just Excellent!

Check out the features and also some of the pictures of how this lamp looks like, and… judge for yourself! Also – buy online the Fabbian Vicky range of light fittings via SparksDirect.

Fabbian Cubetto Wall, Pendant and Ceiling Suspension Lights – Pressed Crystal Lamps

In this article, we just want to have a nice showcase of the Fabbian Cubetto range of pressed crystal ceiling lights, wall lights, and pendant ceiling lights. There are some general features below, but the pictures(Cubetto one wall light, Cubetto multiple Suspension Ceiling lights, Cubetto wall lamps, etc) express more than a thousand words – just enjoy the selected photos of this range and…. to purchase them, click the respective links to visit the Fabbian Cubetto collection!

Continue reading this article – check out the Fabbian Cubetto excellent range of pressed crystal light fittings, and buy online Cubetto Lamps from SparksDirect.