FEATURE SPONSOR
LIGHTING SOLUTIONS FOR UNDERWATER APPLICATIONS
In addition to aerial technology for turbine inspections, offshore windfarms require underwater inspections and maintenance. Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs) with attached lights and cameras are one common option for surveying underwater conditions and inspecting equipment. While cameras provide the image, lighting plays a critical role in the ability to locate and view potential concerns.
THE UNDERWATER DIFFERENCE
Illumination is a challenge underwater because light behaves differently. When submerged, light does not follow direct lines to the subject. Macroscopic life and water volume distort the luminosity of light sources, thus obscuring visibility. Light also suffers from attenuation: a gradual loss in light intensity as water molecules absorb light photons. Another effect, known as scattering, occurs when variations in the water such as temperature changes and suspended
particles diffuse illumination. Scattering diminishes contrast between a subject and its surroundings, which can blur an image and wash out a subject.
CHOOSING A LIGHT
ROV piloting and other inspection methods require broad, diffused lights optimised for scattering conditions so that equipment can reliably manoeuvre to the worksite and avoid hazards and obstacles. Total luminous flux, dimming range, and Correlated Color Temperature (CCT, measured as Kelvin) are also important considerations.
A high luminous flux supports detection of low contrast and/or distant subjects, while dimming capabilities can compensate for high backscatter. Greater than 5000 Kelvin is ideal for inspections, as this high CCT lighting allows better detection for both distant and low-contrast objects. Some companies still opt for halogen lighting solutions, yet LEDs tend to be more efficient and offer optimal colour temperature options. Other benefits are
OnShore?
SPECIALIST LIGHTING
shock and vibration resistance, precise dimming, and safe operation in air during deck tests.
CONCLUSION
Light behaves differently underwater, creating challenges that require subsea- specific equipment to mitigate. Knowing what characteristics to look for in lights when managing offshore windfarms will support safe and effective operations.
DeepSea
OffShore?
BE SURE... Rely On Peli
Rugged, Rechargeable & Portable
Easy and quick to set up
Battery can be swapped to extend light duration
Mast extends above 1.8 metres
9490
Intelligent control to programme light up to 24 hours
AREA WORK LIGHT T: 01457 869999
Wind Energy Network sept issue 2016 180 x
130mm.indd 1 Self-contained system
AREA LIGHTING Use code:
10% OFF
U LIGHTUPTHEDARK16
10/08/2016 10:54:04
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