Dimming
The Firelight FL-B Blaze
fixtures should not be operated from dimmed AC lighting circuits due to the voltage
adaptability of the “Universal Voltage” DC power supplies provided, as these units will attempt to
compensate for any variation in the input voltage. The unit should not be dimmed by attempting to vary the
DC power supply voltage either. If dimming is required in any application, the fixture should be dimmed using
the DMX control functions as intended.
LED Emitter Lifetime
The LED light sources used in the Firelight FL-B Blaze
fixture should operate for tens of thousands of hours,
or several years of daily operation without requiring replacement. A decrease of from 25 to 30 percent in
intensity can be expected after approximately 50,000 hours of operation. If the unit is mounted close to high
wattage fixtures, or otherwise operated in hot environments, the output of the LED emitters may decrease
more rapidly, but should not require replacement over the lifetime of the fixture.
In the event that a fixture appears to be operating at reduced output, especially if the selected output color
changes abruptly, it is possible that an LED emitter has failed prematurely. Evaluation the fixture for
improper control settings, dust or dirt contamination, or other routine problems. The unit may be returned for
service if an LED emitter failure is confirmed.
Maintenance
The only maintenance recommended is a periodic cleaning to remove dust accumulation from the fixture.
The proper cleaning interval is determined by the amount of dust in the environment, which may be
established by inspecting the unit at regular intervals over the first 12 months of operation.
The FL-B Blaze fixture is fan cooled, and there is no clear path to draw air or dust through the optical section
of the fixture. Dust will eventually build up outside and inside the fixture over time. Heavy accumulations of
dust will reduce the fixture output, and may reduce the airflow through the unit, resulting in increased
temperatures and reduced LED lifetimes.
Periodic cleaning with compressed air or bottled gas will remove most light dust contamination. Heavy dust
contamination may require removal of the fixture outer cover for more thorough cle aning of the interior and
effect optics using compressed air, aided by a soft dry brush or tissue paper. Severe contamination by dust in
combination with oil, and fog or smoke fluid residue may require the use of a cleaning cloth or tissue
dampened with water, or a water based cleaner to thoroughly remove dirt from the fixtures exterior, interior,
and optical surfaces. Proper cleaning will generally restore the fixture to original performance.
The two DC effect drive gearmotors installed in the unit are sealed and permanently lubricated, and should
not require maintenance over the lifetime of the fixture. Some minor leakage of oil from the motors may be
expected over time, but this is not an indication of motor failure, and is objectionable mainly because of the
dust it tends to capture inside the fixture. After prolonged operation, typically 15 to 20 thousand hours, the
gearmotors may fail to operate due to brush wear or contamination. Regular operation of the effect motors at
high speed, or temporarily running an inoperative motor at a high speed setting will help to clear off any brush
contamination, extending the fixture lifetime or restoring an intermittent motor to normal operation. Worn
out brushes will eventually require the replacement of the effect drive motors.
Although the fixture is designed for continuous operation, for the longest motor lifetimes, the fixture should be
operated only when an active display is required, and should be powered off when not needed.
