FadeNot Filters & Integrated LED Track Heads: What You Need to Know

We recently had the opportunity to test our FadeNot filters with the Lumenture integrated LED track head, and we want to share what we learned with our customers and specifiers.

During initial testing, our 20 mil FadeNot filter in CTB failed within a few hours — the substrate warped. Lumenture graciously sent us a unit for deeper evaluation, and after several weeks of testing various scenarios, we found that our SFX Glass filter performs reliably with this fixture.

Here’s why: integrated LED fixtures can run hot. We measured operating temperatures of around 240°F when filtered. Our 20 mil substrate is only rated up to 200°F, which explains the failure. The SFX Glass filter handles the heat without issue (although highly saturated colors may have some issues, especially if the fixture is pointed up.) We also found that if there’s any opportunity to separate the filter from direct contact with the light source, the 20 mil substrate works fine.

What this means going forward

Integrated LED technology is increasingly common across many manufacturers, and we believe other fixtures may present the same challenge. As a result, we’re making it our standard practice to test any integrated LED fixture before recommending product for it.

If you’re specifying integrated LED fixtures and need color filtration, here’s our current guidance:

• SFX Glass filters — our recommended solution for high-heat integrated LED fixtures in most instances
• Separation from the light source — if achievable, opens up more filter options
• Dichroic color filters — always a solid option for high-heat applications; Rosco and High End Systems both manufacture them, and Special FX Lighting can supply them for your project if wanted.

We’ll continue testing and updating our recommendations as we evaluate more fixtures. If you have questions about a specific fixture you’re specifying, reach out — we’re happy to work through it with you.