Friday, April 26, 2013

The Meaning Of Obstruction Lighting

By Cherry Mercer


When things do not work well for pilots, obstruction lighting can guide them and the implemented colors can be red and white. A reliable system must have emergency power, for maintaining the signaling when there is an electrical failure. If the weather is not good, the beacons can have a low visibility. More types of markings could be used in rough climate conditions, as they can be helpful for pilots.

The main reason for which red and white lights are used in aviation is avoiding accidents. The systems are usually installed on high terrain and towers and they have to be positioned in such a way that will allow pilots to see them from any direction. In general, LED technology is used, because it is energy efficient and durable. In order to ensure LED visibility with night goggles, there are additional features.

Some buildings can use numerous types of indicators and this usually improves visibility. Many times lamps can surround a structure, for revealing its form. Even if pilots may not notice the construction, its lights will surely be viewed. During daytime, LED indicators may not be seen well and this can be a good reason to use another type of markers instead.

A good example of alternative navigational indicators could be colored stripes, which are painted and may be quite common. Aviation hazards are indicated in a chart. Because of markings, pilots can maintain a plane on course. Exact markings can be good, as they can offer more safety. There is a standard for the navigational lights, made by the International Civil Aviation Association, or ICAO.

Manufacturer companies of obstruction lights can give their clients tips for helping them install and use the devices correctly. More help could be received from aviation officials. In general, the items are placed in clusters of minimum two pieces. The best implementations of a beacon may be on wind turbines, tall buildings, cranes and chimneys. Before the use of LED, incandescent filament bulbs were used for guidance.

Obstruction lighting is also used at ground level and for helipads. Beacons that are placed on tall structures, the visibility range can be of a few miles. Not all lamps are the same when it comes to light intensity, as there are different levels. Red lamps may be turned on continuously, or they may be intermittent. White versions can use xenon technology.

Firms exist that offer energy efficient LED beacons, powered by solar cells. A lamp can also be used directly on the ground and there are particular attachment means for this. Item bodies have to be constructed from materials like cast aluminum, which has a very high resistance to environmental agents. For enhanced visibility, the beacons have clear lens. Some devices can be purchased with wiring on them.

The International Civil Aviation Association imposes the utilization of obstruction lighting for assuring pilots they can have safe landings and flights. LED devices have a high visual intensity. The items can provide signaling and guidance to pilots, for avoiding dangers. The standards in the domain ensure the right positioning for the beacons that could help in avoiding accidents.




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