rosenlite
Rope
Light Information Page
The
following information should help you to have a better understanding of this
12volt wire system
and enable you to choose the products required to complete the system you wish
to build.
If you still can't quite get your head around what is required please don't
hesitate to call for advice.
Caution |
Please note that care should be taken when installing low voltage rope and track systems to ensure that all electrical connections are properly tightened. Long runs and the high current associated with 12volt systems means that heat will be produced where connections are loose. The 6mm cable is rated at 300va (watts) maximum and at this wattage a max current of 25amps will be created. If connections are loose arcing can occur across any gaps resulting in burn out of the connection. The maximum recommended run for Rope Lighting is 6metres. If longer runs are required these can be made by the use of insulated connectors effectively creating two separate runs / circuits. Each run will need to be supplied by a separate transformer. Using this method long runs can be created that appear continuous and the total wattage can be increased. This wire system will provide you with a very attractive lighting option but it does need to be maintained at regular intervals.When changing lamps or adjusting fittings it is recommended that all connections are checked for tightness. IF the installation is in an area where movement is possible regular tighening of all connections is recommended as movement of the product will loosen connections and result in arcing.
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Transformation |
| The
ET300 transformer (see the dedicated transformer page) has been specially
designed to provide a max of 300va for runs up to 6m in length. For
short runs of max 2.5 metres a single output electronic transformer
can be used. All these electronic transformers are silent in operation
and can be dimmed. |
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General
Information |
The 6mm wire rope is fixed by means of cable holders and straining sets (these are sold in pairs). The straining sets allow adjustment to the tautness of the cable - on longer runs it is recommended to use straining sets at each end to obtain the necessary tension. The use of an in-line strainer can allow extra adjustment but on longer runs the cable may still need to be supported with ceiling supports which are available upto 15cm in length. If a longer drop is needed steel support wire is sold by the metre and steel wire holders can be used. The straining sets and cable holders come in two base sizes. The larger base utilising two screws allows for a better purchase which is essential on longer runs where the tension is higher. The smaller base has a hidden central fixing. If the wires are fixed to metal work or flooring insulated holders must be used. The 6mm cable is sold by the metre so if you require a 5 metre run you will need to order 10 metres for the 5 metre parallel run and additional cable to connect the transformer via the power feed nuts. Ensure that you use a min of 6mm cable between the transformer and the power feeds and try to keep this length to a minimum by mounting the transformer as near to the wire as possible. |
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Cable
Width |
The
distance between the cables and hence the cable holders and straining
sets, is determined by the choice of fitting - see the examples
below |
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Selecting the components for the Rope Light System |
STEP
1 - CABLE |
| The 6mm cable is sold by the metre. The maximum run is 6 metres after which voltage drop will be encountered. If you require a 5 metre run you will need to order 10 metres for the 5 metre parallel run and additional cable to connect the transformer via the power feed nuts. Ensure that you use a min of 6mm cable between the transformer and the power feeds and try to keep this length to a minimum by mounting the transformer as near to the wire as possible. |
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STEP
2 - MOUNTING |
For
wall mounting use one pack of cable holders at one end with one pack
of straining sets at the other end. For the extra tension required in
long runs use straining sets at each end. The larger double screw bases
with two screws give a more secure purchase and the longer strainers
offer increased tension. Insulated mounts are available for fixing to
metal surfaces. Ceiling runs can be fixed directly to the ceiling using
strainers each end and to mount the run further away from the celing
use ceiling support rods to support and position your cable run. |
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STEP
3 - SUPPORT AND REROUTING |
Rigid
support rods and steel wire supports are available for use at the installers
discretion.
Rerouters can be used to change the direction of the cable, ideal for
use in corners.
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STEP
5 - POWER |
Transformers
can be Electronic - see the ET300 or electronic single output for short
runs of max 2.5 metres. Toroidal wire wound transformers to a max of
300va can also be used but dimming is not recommended with these as
long runs can produce resonance. Use of pack of power feeds per transformer
and make the connection between the transformer and the power feeds
using 6mm cable. |
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STEP
6 - FITTINGS |
Select
the appropriate fitting of your choice from the range carefully checking
the lamp type. Fittings are sold excusive of lamps or accessories unless
otherwise stated. |
STEP
6 - LAMPS |
IRC (Infra Red Coated) lamps are idealally suited for 12volt rope lighting. These lamps are 30% more efficient then standard 12volt lamps, have a long 5000 hour lamp life, and stay the same brightness throughout their lifespan. In a typical installation with 6 50watt lamps the system will be running at its maximum 300watts and producing 25 amps. By replacing the 50watt lamps with 35watt IRC lamps no light output will be lost but the current will be reduced to 17.5 amps not only saving energy costs but allowing the system to operate at a lower safer current. The 20watt IRC lamps are just as bright as a standard 240volt 50watt GU10 lamp and using 6 of these the current is reduced to 8.3amps and the wattage to 100watts.
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To go back to the Rope Light Fittings and Accessories click HERE |
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