What are the types of lighting tracks and how do they work?

Tracks have been gaining popularity in recent years, and the reason is that they are not only an elegant but also a very practical lighting system in almost every room arrangement. Although until recently track lighting was mainly used in shopping malls, today they are increasingly finding their place in private homes and apartments, offices, or public buildings. What types of track are available on the market? Where to install them and what are their advantages?

What are track lights and track lamps?

Track lamps are also called track lights. They are characterized by a simple design, which makes them great for minimalist and loft arrangements, thanks to which they are becoming an alternative to traditional lamps. The track system allows you to illuminate selected areas using only one cable outlet. Thanks to this, you can combine elegant and sumptuous chandeliers with light in decorative display cases. Importantly, this type of lighting can be freely modified without the need to modernize the electrical installation.

It is worth emphasizing that track systems require the installation of an appropriate type of light source. However, there is no need to worry that their selection will be limited. Among other things, in our store's offer you can find not only lamps, but also the necessary accessories for lighting track systems. Regardless of whether you intend to buy point light sources, such as spotlights, or flat panels, this type of lighting provides enormous arrangement and functional possibilities.

The tracks on which the lighting is mounted are connected to each other using special connectors. These include connectors, T and X type connectors, and straight and corner connectors. A huge advantage of the track system is its simplicity of installation and the small amount of time required. In addition, there is no need to break the ceiling or wall in many places to bring the light to the place where it is currently needed.

Single-phase track lighting - characteristics

In the case of track lighting, there are two types - 1-phase and 3-phase. The first ones are characterized by the fact that they have three wires in their construction, namely phase, neutral and protective. This means that the current runs between two wires along the entire structure - phase and neutral. In practice, this means that all light sources placed on the track are turned on simultaneously and also turned off. By pressing the button to turn on or off the light, they turn on or off all the lamps simultaneously.

Three-phase track system - characteristics

On the other hand, three-phase track systems are characterized by one additional wire and their type. The structure contains three phase wires and one neutral wire. Thanks to this, you can freely operate the light points. Specific lamps can be powered by separate phases, because such a solution is provided by the placement of three separate phases. Separate lighting control allows you not only to illuminate and highlight a specific area in the room, but also save electricity.

Single-phase and three-phase lighting tracks - other differences

How else can a single-phase track differ from a three-phase track? The three-phase model is easier to install, as it has more space for the placement of cables powering the light source. In addition, it has a greater load-bearing capacity, so it works better in larger spaces. In addition, three-phase tracks are more popular, because you can find more spots for them on the market. So you can buy not only spotlights, but also modern and designer luminaires.

Where to use track lamps?

Originally, the functionality of track lamps meant that they were used to illuminate mainly commercial and public spaces. Due to the fact that it is possible to adjust the angle of light incidence, they are used primarily to illuminate museum and shop display cases. In addition, office spaces also benefit from choosing such a solution, as they can easily be matched with light sources for a specific purpose. Tracks are often installed in hairdressing salons, because the light flow needs to be adjusted there so that it best reflects details.

It is worth noting that track lighting is an alternative to traditional lighting in homes and apartments. It is used due to the fact that it generates savings. The requirement to supply only one power beam is a huge advantage that allows for cost reduction. Tracks are characterized by a minimalist style, which is why they can be found more and more often in house designs designed by the best architects and in all rooms.

How to install a lighting track?

To achieve the best possible results, the installation of lighting and its design should be entrusted to a qualified electrician. First, the shape of the room and its dimensions are taken into account, because they determine the layout of the tracks. Appropriate design of lighting areas allows for the best possible light. The next stage is the selection of the type of installation - high-voltage or low-voltage. If the tracks run in different directions from the connection, then the middle power supply is also installed. However, in the case of a one-way distribution, the initial/final power supply is installed. The next stage is the selection of the light color, flux value and design. Then everything is installed and checked for proper operation.

Popularity of track - summary

There is no denying that track is becoming increasingly popular. It is a great solution for many different rooms and arrangement styles. However, it is important to choose the right solution in many respects and to install it correctly, which should be done by a qualified electrician. In our shop you will find a wide range of products for single-phase and three-phase busbars, as well as very popular magnetic lighting, which is successfully replacing single-phase 230V busbars!