A well-thought-out lighting plan for industrial applications is an essential component of any industrial environment. Whether in production halls, warehouses, or workshops – the right lighting not only improves working conditions but also contributes significantly to safety, efficiency, and productivity. In this article, we delve a bit deeper into the essential basics of lighting design for industrial applications.
What factors play a role in lighting for industrial applications?
Light intensity and illuminance (Lux)
Light intensity and illuminance are central terms in lighting design. Light intensity, measured in candela (cd), describes the amount of light emitted by a light source in a specific direction. Illuminance, measured in lux (lx), indicates the amount of light hitting a surface. Different industrial areas and activities require varying illuminance levels. For example, manufacturing areas need an illuminance of 500-1000 lx to enable precision work, while 200-300 lx is sufficient in storage areas.
Light color and color temperature
Color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), determines the appearance of light. Warm white light (2700-3000 K) is suitable for break rooms as it creates a cozy atmosphere. In work areas, however, neutral white (3500-4000 K) or daylight white light (5000-6500 K) is preferable, as these light colors promote concentration and productivity. A high color rendering index (CRI) above 80 is especially important in areas where precise color recognition is required, such as quality control.
Glare and visual comfort
Glare can lead to accidents and productivity losses, so its avoidance is a central aspect of lighting design. Indirect lighting and the strategic placement of fixtures minimize glare. A uniform light distribution without shadows and dark corners contributes to visual comfort and reduces eye fatigue.
Light distribution and control
Even light distribution is crucial in industrial environments. This is often achieved through a combination of direct and indirect lighting. Intelligent lighting control systems based on motion sensors and daylight sensors optimize energy consumption and ensure that light is used only when needed.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
LEDs are the preferred choice in the industry due to their high energy efficiency and long lifespan. They consume less energy than traditional light bulbs and offer better light quality. Sustainable lighting solutions include energy-efficient fixtures, recycling options, and the use of renewable energies.
Safety requirements and regulations
There are specific regulations and standards for lighting in industrial environments. The DIN EN 12464-1, for example, sets minimum requirements for illuminance and light distributions. Emergency lighting systems must provide sufficient light in the event of a power outage or emergency to ensure safe evacuation.
Maintenance and lifespan
Good lighting design also considers the maintainability of lighting systems. They should be designed so that they can be easily maintained and cleaned to preserve light quality and efficiency over time. Choosing durable light sources and robust fixtures can reduce costs in the long term and decrease maintenance efforts.
Ergonomic and psychological aspects
Ergonomic lighting enhances employee productivity and well-being. It considers the specific visual tasks and comfort of employees. Light also affects mood and well-being, so it’s important to incorporate psychological factors into lighting design to create a positive working atmosphere.
Conclusion
Careful lighting design in industrial applications is crucial for creating safe, productive, and energy-efficient work environments. By considering light intensity, light color, glare avoidance, light distribution, energy efficiency, safety requirements, maintainability, and ergonomic aspects, optimal lighting solutions can be developed that meet the specific requirements of industrial environments.