The proper industrial lighting is essential for the correct amount of lighting. An ideal lighting solution is LED high bays 100W-240W that produce 5000K with a brightness of 20-50 foot-candles. This depends on the height of the ceiling. The use of a 150W LED high-bay light with a 120-degree beam angle and a microwave sensor is economically cheaper. It reduces energy consumption compared to traditional metal halide lights. Moreover, it should be larger, covering most of the storage areas in a warehouse.

Which Lighting Is Suitable For A Warehouse And A Factory?

Round and UFO (long beam) high bay lights are preferable. This is because they provide wide, even light coverage, unlike long aisles and racks. Specific task lighting is needed over assembly lines in factories. Therefore, linear fixtures or a combination of beam angles works better in this situation. The light category is determined by ceiling height. For a ceiling of over 20 feet, high bay lighting is suitable. Low bay lighting is suitable for a lower ceiling. 

How Many Does A Facility Need?

The need for lighting is not determined by just square footage. There are some other factors also: 

• General lighting after peak usage: 10–15 foot-candles

• Plans and designs for active picking and packing areas: 30–50 foot-candles

• Other interior areas: 10–20 foot-candles

• Mechanical assembly or inspection areas: 50–75 foot-candles

According to Energy's Solid-State Lighting Forecast Report, half of all U.S. lighting installations are expected to be LED lamps or luminaires by 2035. In contrast, the annual lighting energy savings will exceed 569 terawatt-hours. This adoption of LED lighting is proof of the better performance of LED high bay. 

What Factors Are Important In An LED Bay Light?

There are the following features in an LED for general storage:

• A 20- 30-foot ceiling with a ready 120° beam

• LED High Bay Light 150W 5000K 100–277VAC Microwave Sensor Ready 120° Beam 

These are some of the essential features to look for when buying LED warehouse lights.

How Much Spacing And Fixtures Are Required?

The following calculations are made to determine the number of fixtures and spacings: 

• Calculate total square footage/fixture coverage area, then make adjustments for mounting height and aisle width.

• Check mounting height and desired foot-candle level in each zone.

• This is the coverage per fixture (about 400 – 600 sq ft for a 150W high bay at 20 ft).

• Evenly space fixtures to prevent dark corners in racking and walls.

• Separately add task lighting for inspection/packing stations.

Should Sensors And Controls Be Added In Industrial Lighting?

The use of microwave sensor-ready fixtures is suitable in areas where there are racks, not aisles. It allows light levels to be dimmed automatically and brightened when a customer reaches the fixture. This can be useful in areas with occasional use. Combining sensors with dimmable drivers provides facility managers with flexibility. It also allows them to avoid redesigning the electrical scheme later. If you are looking for a facility-specific photometric plan, CIRL Lighting’s design team can help you convert those specs into accurate plans. Check out their lighting design warehouse/factory lighting design services or view the high bay layout process before ordering.

Conclusion

The type of fixtures, beam angle, and wattage determine the suitability of industrial lighting. It ensures that the voltage and sensor are compatible before installation. A 150W, 5000K LED high bay with a 120° beam/120° drop and a microwave sensor is sufficient for general storage. However, a customized layout is required for factories and specialty zones.