ANSI FL1 Standard For Flashlights

ANSI FL1 Standard

ANSI is the American National Standards Institute. The FL1 Standard is a set of guidelines and requirements for flashlight manufacturers.A flashlight must undergo rigorous testing to ensure that it complies with or above the requirements established by the institute to get the ANSI FL1 Certification. Critical factors considered in the testing process include:

light output (measured in lumens)
beam distance
beam intensity
run time
water resistance
impact resistance

Whether you're looking for a flashlight for your home, car, or camping trip, look for the torch with ANSI FL1 Certification. This will ensure that you're getting a high-quality and reliable product.

What is the Purpose of ANSI?

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) created the ANSI/NEMA FL 1-2009 Standard to provide a guide for consumers to rate and compare the claims on the packages of various manufacturers' products.

This standardization allows consumers to more easily compare flashlight performance and make informed decisions about which product is right for them. As a result, distributors and consumers are better informed about the products available to them, making it easier to choose the best option for their needs.

As a consumer, the ANSI Standard provides quick and easy access to technical information on flashlights to make informed decisions when comparing products.

As a distributor, the ANSI Standard guides you in choosing the suitable flashlight for your needs and ensures that participating manufacturers are held to the same standards.

A manufacturer participating in the ANSI Standard program demonstrates your commitment to quality and safety. While adherence to these standards is voluntary, many leading flashlight manufacturers are now adopting the standard.

ANSI / NEMA FL-1 Standard

Test Conditions Descriptions

Output

A measurement of the total emitted light energy from a portable light source, as measured by integrating the entire output over all angles.

They are measured in lumens.

This is done to quantify the overall light output of the device.

Fresh batteries or fully charged batteries are to be used for all testing.

The type and brand of battery used must be the same as what is recommended by the manufacturer.

Runtime

The number of minutes it takes for the light output to fall by 10% after the first light output value (30 seconds after fresh batteries are installed).

If the device has multiple output levels, this is how long it will take before you know how much time has elapsed under continuous operation at various levels.

Beam Distance

Over various surfaces and in different weather conditions, the beam distance is the distance at which the light beam is 0.25 lux.

The results are reported in meters.

This test is essential to know the maximum length the flashlight can produce 0.25 lux of light within the given time frame, the 30s to 2 min.

Peak Beam Intensity

With the 30s to 2 min of operation, the peak beam intensity (in units of candela) of the device's beam pattern can be determined.

This is the maximum luminous intensity along the central axis of a light cone and does not change with distance.

Impact Resistance

Impact resistance measures how well a portable flashlight can withstand being dropped on a solid surface.

The flashlight must remain fully functional after being dropped.

It guarantees the structural integrity of handheld/portable led torches under specific impact situations.

Reliability testing should be performed after the drop test, and the minimum height should be 1 meter.

Ensuring that the flashlight can withstand being dropped from a variety of heights.

Checking that the light still works after being dropped multiple times

Ensure there is no damage to the flashlight after it has been dropped.

Water Resistance

The water resistance of a flashlight can determine how well it performs in different environments. Three primary categories of water resistance exist:

Resistance to Temporary Immersion in Water

Resistance to Continuous Immersion in Water

Resistance to Splashing Water

All test samples should function normally immediately after being exposed to water and for 30 minutes afterward.

ANSI FL1 Standard