Portable torch light

Types of portable torch lights

Portable torch lights come in different types and are intended for different uses, depending on the torch's construction and features. Here's a breakdown of the various torch lights available on the market:

Incandescent torch light

These were previously the most popular portable torch lights due to their brightness and warm light. They were connected with good quality batteries, but an incandescent bulb would drain them quickly. With the introduction of energy-efficient bulb technology, these torch lights are used more sparingly.

Candle-powered torch light

A candle torch light uses a candle as its light source. This kind of torch light is not very safe because of the possibility of fire and therefore should not be used in places with high fire risk or where children can easily reach them. It is also not good for emergency use because the candle can easily blown out. Although it has a lot of drawbacks, in any case, it can provide a lot of light; it is cheap, and when it works, it can last a very long time.

L.E.D. torch light

It is the newest and most popular torch light. It has gained a lot of popularity lately because it uses less energy, has a longer lifespan, and does not have to be replaced often, as is the case with incandescent bulbs. These torch lights can last up to 50,000 hours. It's important to note that L.E.D. lights will produce some heat, but not much compared to incandescent bulbs. The light produced is bright and appears white since it is blue. The advantage of an L.E.D. torch light is that it consumes less battery power and can keep the battery longer before replacing it.

Solar torch light

This is a good option for eco-friendly consumers. The light of this torch comes from solar energy. It has small solar panels that absorb light during the day and convert it into energy to power the torch light at night. Solar torches are free, but they take a long time to charge fully. If the weather is cloudy, they might not work properly. They also don't work well in winter since the days are shorter.

GAS TORCH LIGHT

It utilizes small amounts of gas as the light source, which will either be propane or butane. With this candle lantern, there are elements to hold and protect the flame from the wind to some extent, but it's still risky. It also has the same brokenness problems and can be treated as L.E.D. or poor incandescent bulbs. This can be expensive for people who live where gas needs to be delivered or bought often.

Design of portable torch light

The design of a portable torch light will determine how effective it will be as an emergency lighting tool or light used outdoors. The brightness, beam type, and runtime will depend on how it is constructed.

Portable torch light designs have undergone a lot of change in efficiency and aesthetics. The earliest torch lights used a simple design that consisted of a bulb encased in a glass or plastic lens. This design, of course, utilized incandescent bulbs as the light source. Over time, with the improvement of technology, many other designs appeared to be introduced, considering today's needs. Here is a simple overview of the progression of torch light designs through the years:

• Primitive torch: The first torch was a piece of wood, soaked in wax or some form of flammable liquid, which would be lit at one end and provide light.
• Portable torch: Introduced in the mid-19^th century, the design consisted of a metal cylinder with a battery and an electric bulb.
• As technology evolved: Of late, the invention of L.E.D. technology revolutionized the design of torch lights. Nowadays, torch lights are more compact, energy-efficient, and offer a range of light options. Smart features like rechargeable batteries, light sensors, and multiple brightness levels have been added to many modern torch lights.

Various innovations have been directed toward L.E.D. torch lights, given their efficiency. Other designs include focusing on ruggedness for outdoor use, waterproof casing, and storing recharge batteries using solar energy. Smart technology in modern torch lights includes sensors for brightness adjustment, multiple lighting modes, rechargeability via different methods, including USB and solar power, enhancing their functionality.

Scenarios for using portable torch light

These can be used in different situations, and each has features, beam distance, type, and battery life. Here are some common scenarios:

• Power cut

  This happens when electricity supply ceases for many reasons: storms, equipment failure, or maintenance work. During power cuts, people often use torch lights to navigate safely in the dark.

• Camping

  When camping, a torch light is an essential item. Besides using it after dark to find your way around the campsite or cook and eat dinner, it can also be used in case of emergency to help you feel safer in the dark.

• Security

  A torch light is needed in security applications to illuminate areas where it is difficult to see. A torch light is an important tool to be able to see fine details and better protect one's self and one's property in the dark.

• Emergency situations

  It is hard to see anything in dark environments, which can lead to panic and mistakes. Torch lights can be a great way to navigate during these situations safely. Using a torch light in emergencies helps to regulate and avoid situations such as accidents and injuries.

• Power outages:

  Outages occur when electricity is unavailable, mainly during storms or grid failure. Outages are very inconvenient and disruptive, but outages can be managed with portable torch lights to navigate safely and continue with regular activities until power is restored. The outage duration will determine how much light will be needed and how the batteries will be changed or recharged.

• Outdoor activities: p>Portable torch lights are widely used for hiking, biking, or just walking after dark. It ensures the activity is done safely and allows the person to see where they are going and avoid possible hazards. Having an L.E.D. torch light within reach will be sufficient for everyone's short and long lighting needs.

How to choose a portable torch light

When choosing a portable torch light, one should consider a few factors regarding the product. Below is a guide on what to consider when purchasing torch lights:

• L.E.D. technology: L.E.D. torch lights or pen lights are the most common torch lights these days because they are efficient and energy-saving. The light source is long-lasting (up to 50,000 hours) as opposed to incandescent bulbs which need replacing often. The greater the number of L.E.D.s on a torch, the stronger the light produced.
• Waterproofing: This feature is important for torch lights that will be used regularly outside. Look for torch lights with an I.P. rating of 67 or higher, which will protect the torch from water and dust.
• Battery: Battery-saving torch lights are nice to have, with some being rechargeable and others just using regular batteries. Torch lights with more battery saves long usage time and no interruption.
• Brightness: Brightness is measured in lumens. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light. For general use, one with 30–300 lumens is fine, but for camping or emergencies, a torch with more than 800 lumens is suitable is required.
• Flash mode: Flashlight modes are good for emergency situations such as signaling distress or conserving battery power. Different light patterns are also available, such as strobe and SOS.

• Beam type:

  The beam type determines how the light is projected from the torch. Wide beams give more light over an area, while long beams focus light over great distances.

• Compact size:

  Use a compact torch, as compact items will be easier to carry and store. A torch light should not be heavy around the 1-pound mark. It should not be more than half a foot in length.

• Different brightness levels:

  This feature saves battery life and allows setting light for different activities.

Q&A

Q.1: What is a portable torch light?

A.1: It is a portable light that produces light with a fixed beam angle.

Q.2: Which is better, an incandescent bulb or an L.E.D. bulb in terms of the lifetime of a torch light?

A.2: L.E.D. bulbs have a life of around 50,000 hours, while an incandescent bulb has a life of around 1,000 hours.

Q.3: Can torch lights be used as everyday lights?

A.3: Yes, they can be used as long as they have enough brightness or enough lumens.

Q.4: Are there candle lanterns?

A.4: Yes, there is also a candle lantern, a torch light, which uses candles to produce light.

Q.5: Can torch lights be used for security purposes?

A.5: Yes, they are commonly used for securing properties at night, especially in remote areas.

Q.6: Are all torch lights waterproof?

A.6: No, only those with proper waterproof housing and an I.P. rating of 67.

Q.7: Do torch lights come with different brightness settings?

A.7: Yes, many of them come with different brightness settings for different needs.