Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Promote Safety With LED Obstruction Lights

By Elena McDowell


It is extremely important for aircraft pilots to be aware of anything that may be in the way of their route. Structures that are along their paths should therefore have warning systems that make them visible in any circumstance. They must be able to give early warning and indicate their presence particularly if they are in the way of flight or on the ground. Any tall structures like towers, buildings, or tall chimneys present obstacles that must be clearly indicated so they can be avoided. Illuminated systems are also used to outline runways so the pilot is aware of them. LED obstruction lights are a good way to provide such warning systems.

Such devices give pilots a clear indication of the height and location of any potential obstacle. The FAA has set rules and regulations on how such structures must have these cautioning systems. They must be immediately noticeable in clear or bad weather, day or night. Even the manner and positioning of these devices on the structures are clearly outlined by the FAA.

Lighting systems used for early warning come in different colors and intensity. Government-set regulations clearly outline the applications of such systems. The varied colors and intensities are intended to optimize visibility whether day or night. The colors for day time use is in varying levels of white and orange while red is used for night.

Since these fixtures are installed outdoors, it is important that the structure is made from durable materials. Several companies manufacture these lighting systems using glass and metals only. Other use durable and strong plastics and acrylics. These are to ensure that they can withstand constant exposure to a variety of weather and natural elements.

Another factor to consider is that these devices are kept on constantly. As such, it is important that they are efficient in power consumption. Light emitting diodes consume very little electricity compared to other types of lighting like incandescent or xenon bulbs. They are extremely thrifty when it comes to power. This would therefore generate a lot of savings in operational costs.

To be even more efficient with power, there are models of these devices that are solar powered. As such, operating them is at virtually no cost. This results to great savings in operational expenses.

Another requirement set by the FAA is the need for lighting that flashes aside from those that are steadily lit. Both types are used in tandem and how they are to be used and installed are also set by the FAA. The intention is to maximize perceptibility.

Precautions for safety demand that all structures above a certain height and could present a danger to aircraft have systems to warn of their presence and position. These systems must be clearly visible no matter what circumstances are. LED obstruction lights are an ideal way to provide this warning. They consume very little power and are thus cheap to operate. Guidelines and rules on how these systems are to be installed are clearly set by the FAA. Companies that make such systems are knowledgeable about these regulations and can thus formulate a system that is ideal for all situations.




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