PermaDry® Ballasts Leading the Way for Innovative Illuminated Signage

Newlite Solutions Ltd, a specialist in the lighting industry has combined expertise and technologies with world-class suppliers of control gear, including Osram, Philips, GE and Tridonic and is leading the way in the progression towards bespoke streamlined signage, whilst also offering increased visual effect for signs and considerably reducing operational costs on sign expenditure.

PermaDry® protected high frequency ballast is a pioneering product, designed to enhance illuminated outdoor signage. PermaDry® is a unique process which, when applied to high frequency ballasts, gives protection from condensation and damp atmospheres, hence its outdoor application.

This is a unique development within the lighting industry and will be of significant importance within the sign making trade. The European Union is tightening its policy on the use of non efficient lighting sources. In 2005, it will no longer be permitted to use CELMA class C rated ballasts within the EU, which are currently used within many outdoor signs. This will result in a shift towards the use of heavier and more bulky low loss standard chokes.

PermaDry® high frequency ballasts have been specially designed for use in outdoor signage and provide numerous benefits compared to the conventional illumination methods.

The use of PermaDry® ballasts for outdoor signs produce significant energy savings, using up to 30% less energy than conventional illumination methods. This energy saving benefit results in considerable ongoing reductions in company electricity bills.

Their ability to drive more lamps, leads to a reduction in ballast requirements. One PermaDry® ballast is able to supply up to four lamps, compared to low loss chokes only having the capacity to supply up to two.

Extensions in lamp life of up to 50% are achieved using PermaDry® ballasts as opposed to the conventional illumination methods. This reduces operational costs further as there is a reduced need for product replacements and reduced labour time to replace failed ballasts.

PermaDry® ballasts weigh up to 70% less than low loss standard chokes. This lightweight feature can result in reductions in sign installation time, as well as increased sign durability due to less strain on supporting systems and surfaces. This further reduces maintenance and labour costs and thus, improves operating costs.

This lightweight nature of PermaDry® ballasts means they have a wider application within the signage industry. They facilitate the possibility for more streamlined sign designs, a trend which is being adopted by many high street retailers.

PermaDry® ballasts operate either standard, super slim (16mm diameter) and compact fluorescent lamps.

PermaDry® ballasts are able to increase the visual effect of signage as they produce nearly 20% more lumen output compared to low loss standard chokes. Brighter signage is an often-desirable benefit in competitive industries, due to the importance of conveying brand image to the consumer.

Cathode flicker and stroboscopic effects is a problem associated with conventional illumination methods. However, these effects are eliminated using PermaDry® ballasts and therefore their use can further enhance the lighting ambiance of outdoor signage.

PermaDry® ballasts have been used by a variety of blue chip companies for use in outdoor signage. The product has a proven and excellent reputation for both quality and durability. To show our dedication to product quality, all PermaDry® ballasts used in conjunction with Osram lamps are guaranteed for five years, giving peace of mind for both sign companies and end users.

For more information on the benefits of PermaDry® ballasts for use within the sign industry please call our technical help line on 08707 458 444.

Style Benefits

• Streamlined designs possible
• Wider application
• Weigh up to 70% less than standard chokes
• Improved visual effect
• Up to 20% more lumen output

Operational Cost Savings

• Increased sign durability
• Reduced maintenance costs
• Reduced labour costs
• Extended lamp life of up to 50%
• Improved operational costs
• Up to 30% less electrical consumption