Lighting for outdoor environments

A designer always seeks new ways to create inspiring shapes.
We at Optoga give them a whole host of new possibilities with the Clara AC IP65.

1. Introduction

Lighting for outdoor environments – including bollards and façade luminaires – must be robust, resistant to environmental stresses, and reliable over time. Optoga’s Clara IP65 module is engineered to meet these challenges, combining long life and high light quality with exceptional durability against moisture, corrosion, and thermal stress.

With the Clara IP65, we give designers and manufacturers new opportunities to create new interesting outdoor fittings. Without having to limit yourself to, and how, the luminaire needs to be water proof. We have already taken care of that in the light source.

By making the actual LED-engine IP67-rated, the luminaire does not have to look like outdoor lighting always done. In addition, no external driver is needed, the Clara AC IP65 connects directly to 230V mains. It saves space, assembly time, weight and money. But above all, it creates completely new design possibilities where all that is needed can be an aluminium casing and two screw holes for the LED-engine.

Changing the market

With Clara AC IP65 the market for lighting manufacturers is changed once and for all. Now manufacturers won’t need neither additional housing or driver for the LED unit, but can plug it directly to mains, 230 volts. This means easier and more cost-effective design, and less time to process and produce products. With Clara AC IP65 the manufacturers not only save time but also money. The idea is that instead of doing the whole luminaire moisture proof, we just do the places that are in need of moisture barriers secure. It’s about not closing in moisture, but always get it to be able to evaporate. Do not turn in moisture without opening up the structure so that the moisture can always evaporate.

2. Clara IP65 – Designed for Resilience

Clara IP65 is designed specifically for harsh outdoor conditions where moisture, gas exposure, and heat can degrade LED performance. Key protection strategies include:

– Integration of a breathable membrane that balances internal pressure and prevents moisture ingress.

– Use of materials with low sulfur outgassing to prevent LED corrosion.

– Encapsulated LED structure to reduce exposure to ambient contaminants.

– Proven mechanical design that has remained unchanged for over 10 years.

– Built-in AC driver – no external power supply needed.

– IoT functionality is not currently integrated, but the consistent form factor allows future upgrades.

Area of use

Clara AC IP65 is designed for bollards, park lighting and bulk heads and can be integrated into environments that previously were not possible, since the LED module itself is water and moisture proof. We have thus moved away the moisture barrier that previously had to be built into the luminaire, this simplifies for the OEM manufacturer. The manufacturer can now concentrate fully on designing and creating a unique design instead of focusing on how the different moisture-proof environments will be achieved as all this is integrated in the module.

3. Environmental Protection and Standards

LED components are sensitive to environmental contaminants. Moisture, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), and other corrosive gases can degrade LED materials and electrical contacts, leading to reduced life or failure. Clara IP65 mitigates these risks with advanced barrier design and strict material controls.

The use of a pressure-equalizing membrane reduces thermal and atmospheric stress, helping to maintain internal conditions and improve longevity. Design and material selection align with good practice as recommended by IEC 60598 for outdoor luminaires and corrosion-prone installations.

Convenient and safe

All you need are two screws to attach the module, for example, to a steel beam. All electronics are encapsulated in the casing and a breathable membrane allows to prevent condensation. What is needed is a moisture-proof junction box as the electrician has access to the connection of 230VAC. And mount the module on any kind of heat dissipating material.

4. Benefits for Luminaire Manufacturers

– Resistant to moisture, gases, and heat – fewer failures and complaints.
– Consistent mechanical interface – simplifies product development and upgrades.
– Ready for future connectivity – while Clara IP65 is not currently IoT-enabled, we can support future integration.
– Sustainable – long operational life and low maintenance needs reduce environmental impact.

5. Summary

With Clara IP65, luminaire manufacturers gain a dependable and future-proof LED module optimized for challenging outdoor conditions. Whether for bollards, façades, or path lighting, Clara delivers consistent performance, robust environmental protection, and long service life – ensuring peace of mind for designers, installers, and end users alike.

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Technical specifications

The base of the construction is one of our strongest and most abundant LED modules from low power to high with 230VAC as switching voltage. We have integrated a 2 conductor, double insulated rubber cable to have a flexible option of switching. The LED module is ventilated through special membranes to always be able to equalize in order to minimize the risk of moisture ingress.