4 Key Considerations about Bollard Lights

Bollard lights are an essential component of outdoor lighting applications, providing both functionality and aesthetics. They are different from street lights in terms of purpose and design. If you are considering installing bollard lights, here are four key considerations to keep in mind.

What are Bollard Lights?

Bollard lights are outdoor lighting fixtures that are mounted on bollards, which are posts used for various purposes like guiding traffic, protecting pedestrians, or tying up ships. These lights are typically shorter in height compared to street lights and are designed to provide orientation and guidance rather than high illuminance. The housing of bollard lights is usually made of cast aluminum or stainless steel and can have various shapes like cylindrical, round, or square. They emit light from the top or the sides, with a Type V lighting distribution to control lighting pollution.

Why are Bollard Lights Needed?

Illumination and Aesthetic Function

Bollard lights serve the dual purpose of providing illumination and enhancing the aesthetics of outdoor spaces. They offer soft, non-dazzling light that illuminates the ground and nearby areas, guiding people and creating an inviting atmosphere. These lights can also be used to highlight plants and buildings, enhancing the overall landscape.

Less Lighting Pollution

One of the advantages of bollard lights is their ability to provide ground-level lighting without causing visual discomfort for drivers and pedestrians. Their lower height ensures that the light does not interfere with people’s vision while still illuminating the ground effectively.

Safety

Bollard lights play a crucial role in ensuring safety at night. They act as a barrier, separating pedestrians from driveways and protecting both pedestrians and drivers. The design of bollard lights, with their special surface and top, can withstand vehicular traffic without causing damage to the interior components.

Crime Reduction

Bollard lights have the added benefit of deterring crime during the nighttime. The illumination they provide acts as a deterrent to potential thieves and looters. By effectively reducing dark areas, bollard lights help create a safer environment and prevent criminal activities.

What are the Requirements of Bollard Lights?

Power Supply

Before installing bollard lights, it is essential to ensure that there is a power supply available at the intended location. Bollard lights are typically powered by electric wires buried underground. However, solar-powered bollard lights are also available, eliminating the need for wiring. Low voltage bollard lights (12V) are another option as they are easier to install, requiring less extensive electrical work.

Premium Material

Considering that bollard lights need to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, it is crucial to choose high-quality, durable materials. Bollard lights should be made of premium materials like extruded aluminum with a protective coating, ensuring they are resistant to corrosion, impact, and deformation caused by extreme temperature, heavy rain, and sunlight. The head of the bollard light should also be fixed with vandal-resistant screws to enhance security.

Height and Spacing

The height and spacing of bollard lights depend on the specific application. Higher mounting heights provide broader coverage but lower light levels closer to the fixtures. Consequently, wider spacing is suitable for fixtures with higher mounting heights. Conversely, lower mounting heights require closer spacing between fixtures. Bollard lights are typically available in three heights: 20cm, 50cm, and 90cm, with recommended spacing ranging from 2.4m to 9m, depending on the application.

Lighting Distribution

Proper lighting distribution is crucial to avoid lighting pollution. Bollard lights should emit light downwards to the ground or floor, limiting excessive up-light and back-light that can cause glare and trespass. Most bollard lights use Type V or Type IV lighting distribution, which illuminates a wider space with fewer fixtures. Additionally, shielded bollard lights equipped with visors or louvers focus the light towards the desired areas, enhancing recognition of people and objects.

How to Install Bollard Lights?

Installation methods for bollard lights may vary depending on the brand and specific type of fixture. However, the following simplified installation steps can provide a general guideline:

1. Fix the baseplate on the anchor bolts using nuts.
2. Secure the bollard head and pole body.
3. Connect the supply lines from the conduit to the fixture wires.
4. Tighten the bollard light mounting screws and secure the fixture.

It is important to note that these steps are for reference purposes only. It is always recommended to hire licensed contractors or electricians to ensure a safe and proper installation.

In conclusion, when considering bollard lights for your outdoor lighting needs, it is essential to pay attention to the specific requirements of these fixtures. From power supply and premium materials to proper height and spacing, these considerations will help you choose and install bollard lights that provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal to your outdoor spaces.