Electricity + Control February 2018

SENSORS, SWITCHES + TRANSDUCERS

How to Choose Lighting for Harsh Industrial Environments Information provided by Banner Engineering Industrial lighting applications Industrial lighting can be categorised as area lighting or task lighting. Area lighting includes high-bay and low-bay applications, such as ware- houses and other open spaces that often require high-power lights to achieve adequate illumina- tion over a large area. Task lighting, on the other hand, can be used to augment the area lighting in a space by focusing illumination where the work occurs. By bringing the light source closer to the work, industrial users may be able to achieve recommended illumination with lower-powered lights. Industrial users should consider using task lighting for the following: • Worker assembly cells and workstations • Machine/ robotic assembly cells • Electrical panels and other enclosures • Inspection stations • Machines where operators need to be able to see inside to work on components Performance standards for industrial lighting Determining the appropriate level of light for a given application can be challenging. Too little light can potentially be dangerous, while too much light can create unpleasant glare and add unnecessary costs. Because of the variety in architecture and uses of industrial space, there is no one-size-fits-all

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Selecting the right lighting for industrial environments – especially harsh and hazardous environments – is a significant component of energy management.

T his discussion includes the common chal- lenges for lighting in industrial environments, the standards that industrial users should keep in mind, and considerations for extreme envi- ronmental conditions to help you choose the right lighting for your facility. Common challenges for lighting in in- dustrial environments Industrial facilities have a wide variety of tasks, machines and purposes, but the following key fea- tures are common: • Most industrial facilities have high ceilings and large open spaces, and they often host de- tail-oriented or risky work that can require very specific (and bright) lighting solutions • Lighting systems may need to withstand harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, dust, or moisture • Lighting may be exposed to mobile equipment and heavy machinery • Industrial facilities often have sensitive equip- ment that can be damaged by electrical noise from poor quality lighting. Conversely, equip- ment in the space may create electrical noise that can damage a lighting system • In some industries, sanitary standards require the protection of consumable goods or other manufactured products against contamination from the failure or breakage of the light fixture

18 Electricity + Control

FEBRUARY 2018