Lighting spaces with high ceilings: key considerations for industry
How to effectively illuminate spaces with high ceilings is a key consideration for factories, office buildings, supermarkets and shopping centres. The luminaires selected for these types of spaces must meet a series of specific requirements.
This article addresses...
- HOW TO LIGHT A SPACE WITH HIGH CEILINGS
- RECOMMENDED LUMINAIRES
- RECOMMENDED SECOM PRODUCTS
How to light a space with high ceilings
The availability of LED luminaires means that businesses tasked with lighting spaces with high ceilings have a much easier job, given these fixtures are more adaptable, resistant, durable and energy efficient than conventional lighting. These new solutions can also generate considerable cost savings.
How much light is needed
LED luminaires are an ideal option for spaces like these. A range of different lighting outputs can be combined with a selection of secondary optics to achieve the legally-required light levels.
For that reason, there is no single criterion linking lighting output with ceiling height. It depends largely on the use of the lit space, the need for additional optics or even additional accessories, such as anti-glare matte protection.
How big the building is
When it comes to designing lighting for a large space, particularly one with high ceilings, the geometry of the space should be studied first and foremost. The light levels required by law should then be analysed and the appropriate luminaires selected, based on light efficiency, colour temperature and optimal power output.
What type of work is carried out in the space
The way light is projected in a space with very high ceilings is determined largely by the work carried out there. This will depend on several factors:
- The nature of the work
- The lighting contrast
- The complexity of the work
The ideal light level for a specific task facilitates maximum performance and minimum fatigue.
How many luminaires are needed
There are so many variables involved in lighting a space with high ceilings that the possibilities are practically endless. The number of luminaires depends on factors such as light intensity, ceiling height, aperture angle or where the cables can run.
Dedicated software is now available for calculating light levels to ensure optimal output and uniform distribution throughout the area. It determines the space between each lighting point and highlights factors such as ceiling height and the lumen rating of a device.
Luminaire maintenance
Basic luminaire maintenance includes the following:
- Removing dust from accessories, bulbs and lenses every 6 to 24 months.
- Replacing luminaires once they have exceeded their average lifespan. Complete groups and lighting areas should ideally be replaced together.
- Replacing seals, if necessary.
- Checking mechanical attachments.
- Inspecting electrical connections.
These tasks should be carried out at regular intervals and efforts made to combine as many as possible to save costs, increase speed and optimise organisation and efficiency.
Recommended luminaires
There are two types of ideal luminaire for spaces with very high ceilings, each offering an optimal combination of effectiveness, energy savings, durability and resistance.
Bell LEDs
These are manufactured especially for spaces such as industrial units. Bell LEDs can be suspended at any height, regardless of the shape and height of the ceiling.
LED floodlights
These energy-efficient lights project lighting efficiently and offer adjustable lighting for large spaces. They are tough, adjustable luminaires that have very little light loss.
Recommended SECOM products
The SECOM catalogue includes a range of products which are perfectly suited for lighting industrial units with very high ceilings. The following two options meet all the requirements for these types of spaces.
Konak LED
This luminaire has an innovative design that has been optimised to allow it to function as both an industrial bell light and a floodlight. It provides high lighting performance, reliability and robustness. The fixture has a transparent polycarbonate cover, injection-moulded aluminium, a huge variety of secondary optics and high quality electronic components, making it one of the best choices for all types of industrial units.
Protek Q2 LED
The perfect system for industrial lighting projects, including commercial and industrial spaces, transport facilities and others. Like the previous example, it is equipped with LED technology and has an elegant aesthetic with reduced dimensions that enable it to be installed in any space. The result is a well-integrated lighting system. Hence, is it used as standard in commercial spaces as well as sporting, industrial and transport facilities, both inside and out.
Lighting projects for spaces with high ceilings must follow a series of well-defined guidelines. Thanks to LED technology and the range of products on offer from Secom Iluminación, it is possible to achieve well-lit spaces that are fit for purpose.
