Candela to Lux Calculator
Table of Contents
Introduction
As a textile engineer or professional working in manufacturing, understanding how to convert candela (cd) to lux (lx) is essential for planning projects involving lighting systems, machinery, or resource optimization. Whether you’re designing energy-efficient processes, sizing equipment, or managing budgets, accurate conversions ensure efficiency and precision. In this article, we’ll explore the formula, provide practical tips, and introduce tools to simplify your work.
Why Convert Candela to Lux?
Converting candela to lux is crucial for professionals in industries like:
- Electrical Engineering: Estimating illuminance levels for devices and systems.
- Manufacturing: Ensuring proper lighting levels for safety and efficiency.
- Project Planning: Avoiding errors by matching lighting requirements to system needs.
By using a candela to lux calculator, you save time, reduce errors, and ensure consistent results.

The Formula for Converting Candela to Lux
The process of converting candela to lux depends on standardized conversion factors. Below are the general guidelines:
1. Basic Conversion Formula
To convert candela to lux:
Lux = Candela ÷ Distance²
Where Distance is the distance (in meters) between the light source and the surface being illuminated.
For example:
- If the light intensity is 500 candela and the distance is 2 meters, the calculation becomes:
Lux = 500 ÷ (2 × 2) = 500 ÷ 4 = 125 lx
In this case, 500 candela at 2 meters equals 125 lux.
2. Adjusting for Larger Distances
If the distance increases, the illuminance decreases proportionally. For instance:
- If the light intensity is 300 candela and the distance is 5 meters, the calculation becomes:
Lux = 300 ÷ (5 × 5) = 300 ÷ 25 = 12 lx
In this case, 300 candela at 5 meters equals 12 lux.
3. Handling Smaller Distances
For shorter distances, the same formula applies. For example:
- If the light intensity is 100 candela and the distance is 1 meter, the calculation becomes:
Lux = 100 ÷ (1 × 1) = 100 ÷ 1 = 100 lx
In this case, 100 candela at 1 meter equals 100 lux.
How to Use the Formula
Let’s break down the process step by step:
Step 1: Identify the Input Values
Determine the candela value and the distance (in meters) you need to convert. For instance:
- If you’re converting 200 candela at a distance of 3 meters, note these values.
Step 2: Apply the Conversion Formula
Use the appropriate formula based on the available data. Using our example:
Lux = 200 ÷ (3 × 3) = 200 ÷ 9 ≈ 22.22 lx
Step 3: Cross-Check with Standard Charts
Always refer to standardized candela-to-lux charts to confirm the calculation, as slight variations may exist depending on regional standards.
Practical Applications
Understanding how to convert candela to lux has practical applications across various fields:
Electrical Engineering
For engineers, calculating lux ensures accurate estimation of illuminance levels for devices and systems.
Manufacturing
In manufacturing, knowing the exact illuminance in lux helps optimize budgets and minimize losses.
Project Planning
Professionals can use the calculator to estimate lighting requirements, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
Candela to Lux Conversion Chart
Below is a comprehensive chart for estimating lux values based on common candela measurements and distances:
Candela | Distance (meters) | Lux |
---|---|---|
100 | 1 | 100 |
300 | 2 | 75 |
500 | 2 | 125 |
300 | 5 | 12 |
100 | 3 | 11.11 |
This chart helps you match candela values to lux equivalents, ensuring consistent results.
FAQs
What Is Candela?
- Candela (cd) measures the luminous intensity of a light source in a specific direction.
What Is Lux?
- Lux (lx) measures the illuminance, or the amount of light falling on a surface per unit area.
Why Do We Need to Convert Candela to Lux?
Converting ensures compatibility between light intensity (candela) and illuminance (lux), especially when designing lighting systems.
Can I Use This Chart for All Lighting Systems?
Yes, similar principles apply to all types of lighting systems, but specific adjustments may be needed for unique setups.
Tips
- Use Standardized Charts: Always refer to official conversion charts for accuracy.
- Account for Distance: Ensure you measure the distance accurately for precise calculations.
- Verify Regional Standards: Some regions may use slightly different conversion factors.
- Test with Samples: Create small prototypes to verify calculations before scaling up.
Conclusion
Using a candela to lux calculator is a valuable skill for engineers, manufacturers, and designers alike. By understanding the formulas and leveraging tools like the provided chart, you can ensure precise measurements and efficient resource planning.
For more information on related topics, check out our articles on Candela to Lumens Calculator and Lumens to Candela Calculator .
By mastering candela to lux conversions, you’ll enhance your ability to handle lighting-related projects with confidence and accuracy.