Lighting Science, Theory and Calculations 9

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SECTION 1
LIGHTING SCIENCE, THEORY AND CALCULATIONS

Contents:

Section 1.1 Introduction

Section 1. Visible Spectrum

Section 1.3 Light Sources

Section 1.4 Lighting Theory

Section 1.5 Laws of Light

Section 1.6 Point Source Calculations

Section 1.7 Transmittance, Reflectance, Absorption

and Indirect Lighting Schemes

Section 1.8 Illuminance and Visual Performance

Section 1.9 Lumen Method of Light Calculation

Section 1.10 Uplighting Calculations

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SECTION 1 - LIGHTING SCIENCE

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Light is the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Light radiates and can
travel unlimited distances through space. Light rays can however, be reflected,
transmitted or absorbed when they strike an object. The visible spectrum is only a
small part of the full electromagnetic spectrum (see figure 1.1a). The main
source of our natural light is the sun, which has a core temperature of
approximately 10,000,000 K but a surface temperature which is a relatively cool
6,000 K. It is this surface temperature which determines the energy levels at the
different frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Figure 1.1a shows a graph of electromagnetic energy transmitted by a black body

at 6000 K across the frequency spectrum. The visible spectrum is the frequency
span between 380 nm and 720nm.

ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM

Cosmic Gamma Ultra Visible Infra Red Radar T.V. +

Rays Rays + X Violet Spectrum Radio
Rays

380nm 720nm

Fig 1.1a

1.2 THE VISIBLE SPECTRUM

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Fig. 1.1b

Consider the effect of heating a piece of

soft iron in a fire. If the iron is heated
for a short time, it will radiate heat
energy (curve 1). This radiation is not
visible. If the iron is heated further it
will glow red (curve 2), then white
(curve 3) and eventually blue (curve 4).

The radiation peaks have moved across

the spectrum from red to blue as the
temperature increases and have
increased in magnitude.

Surprisingly, blue is produced at a

higher temperature than red even though
psychologically, we consider blue to be
a “cool” colour and red a “warm” colour. White of course, is a mixture of all the
colours in the spectrum.

1.3 LIGHT SOURCES

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Light from natural sources such as the sun is known as white light and is made
up from the different frequency components of the visible spectrum.

Artificial light from sources such as

candles, tungsten filaments and gas
discharge lamps, etc., has a different
mix of frequency components which
produce a different colour light This is
also true for indirect natural light which
has been reflected or refracted and where
some of the colour components have
been absorbed in the process. The
constituent colours in a beam of light
can be seen by passing the light through
a glass prism (Fig. 1.3).

The human eye has evolved over

millennia under the influence of natural
light. Figure 1.4. shows the sensitivity of
the eye to different frequencies. This
can be seen to follow closely the wave
energy profile shown in Fig.1.1b. The
eye therefore, is most sensitive to
colours at the centre of the visible
spectrum.

Discharge lamps have concentrated

outputs at or near the centre of the
visible spectrum to improve their
efficiency, or to use a more exact
lighting term, their efficacy. (See Fig.
1.5)

A low pressure sodium vapour (SOX)

lamp for example, has a very high
efficacy - up to 180 lumens per watt
because its output is concentrated at the
centre of the spectrum. It is not,
however, capable of rendering colours at
the periphery of the visible spectrum.
The colour red for example will look brown under this lamp because there is no
red in its light output.

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Other discharge lamps have outputs
spread over a wider spectrum so that
colour rendering is improved albeit at
the expense of efficacy.

The output of an incandescent lamp is

higher at the red end of the spectrum
giving it a characteristically warm
output. (2800 K approx.). It will have
excellent colour rendering
characteristics because all of the colours
of the spectrum are contained in its
output,

Fig. 1.6 shows the output of an

incandescent lamp. Note that most of its
output is outside the visible spectrum and
because of this it is a very inefficient
lamp with a typical efficacy of 12
lumens per watt. Heat output is of
course high because of the high infra red
output.

The output of a tri-phosphor

fluorescent lamp is concentrated at the
three primary colours of the spectrum
(See Fig. 1.7). This provides an
efficient lamp (up to 90 lumens per
watt) with good colour properties.
When people view objects and room
interiors under these lamps they
experience slightly exaggerated colours
which may in fact be desirable. Exact
colour rendering is not provided by
these lamps.

If exact colour tasks are to be performed then colour matching lamps are
necessary. These lamps have much lower efficacies and provide a
characteristically cool colour similar to the natural light of an overcast day in the
northern hemisphere. (See Fig. 1.8). The northern sky is best because there is
less variation of colour and no direct sunlight.

It should be noted that exact colour rendering is not always possible under
daylight conditions because of the natural light colour variation with time of day,
season and weather conditions.
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Colour rendering is also related to the illuminance on the task. A high

illuminance (1000 Lux +) is recommended where exact colour rendering is
necessary.

1.4 LIGHTING THEORY

Lighting can be considered in 4 stages, source, flow, illuminance and luminance.

1. SOURCE - the light source has a

luminous intensity (symbol I) and is
measured in candela.

2. FLOW -the flow of light, or light

flux (symbol which is measured in
lumens.

3. ILLUMINANCE (symbol E) -
when light falls on a surface, the level
of illumination on that surface is
referred to as illuminance. The unit of
measurement is lux. (lumens per
square metre)

4. LUMINANCE (symbol L) - The

fourth stage of this process is the light
leaving the surface which has been
illuminated by the source.

Consider a situation where the same amount of light strikes both a “dark” surface
and a ”bright” surface. The illuminance is the same in each case but due to the
greater reflectance of the “bright” surface it now becomes a secondary source of
light. Its luminance will therefore be much greater than that of the dark surface.

Luminance is measured in lumens emitted per sq.m. (not to be confused with

Illuminance which is lumens received per sq. m.) and the unit used is
“APOSTILB” which is not a S.I. unit. The luminance may be thought of as the
brightness of the surface. The term brightness is a subjective term however,
whereas luminance is objective.

Luminance is usually be measured in candela per square metre, the illuminated

surface being considered a secondary light source.

Note: 1cd/m2 = 3.14 Apostilb = 3.14 lm/m2

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The luminance of a surface depends upon the amount of light arriving multiplied
by the per unit reflectance R (p.u.).

Example 1.1 The illuminance (E) on the working plane in Fig. 1.10 is 500 lux.
The reflectance is 50%, calculate the luminance of the working plane.

L = E x R(p.u.)
= 500 x .5 = 250 Apostilbs
= 250 / 3.14 = 80 cd/m2

Experiment to illustrate the difference between Illuminance and Luminance

1.5 LAWS OF LIGHT

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1.5.1 Rectilinear Propagation of light.
This means that light travels in straight lines.
It travels at 300,000 km/S and requires no
medium for propagation.

1.5.2 Inverse Square Law

In Fig. 1.11 the area illuminated by the point
light source increases in proportion to the
square of the distance. It follows that the
average illuminance would decrease by the
same ratio.
I
E = ----
d2
where d = the distance between the source
and the object.

In the example shown the illuminance reduces to a quarter of its original value
when the distance is doubled. Similarly the illuminance reduces to one ninth of
its original value when the distance away is tripled.

Example 1.2
A point light source has an intensity of 1,000 candela and the light falls
perpendicularly on a surface. Calculate
the illuminance on the surface if its
distance from the surface is:
(i) two metres, (ii) four metres and (iii)
six metres.
I 1000
E = -- = ----- = 250 lux
d 2 2 2
I 1000
E = -- = ------ = 62.5 lux
d2 4 2
I 1000
E = -- = ------ = 27.8 lux
d2 6 2

1.5.3 Cosine Law

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When light does not fall normally on a surface,
the area illuminated increases reducing the
average illuminance by the same ratio.

Fig. 1.13 shows light from a distant source

striking surfaces AB and BC. The rays of
incident light may be taken as parallel.

AB
---- = Cos 
BC

where The angle between the

incident light and the normal to the surface BC.

Therefore the average illuminance on a
surface is given by the general formula:

I Cos 
 
d2

Example 1.3

A point light source has an intensity of 2,000 candela in all directions and is
mounted 4 metres above a surface. Calculate the illuminance on the surface
directly underneath (Ea) and at a distance of 3 metres to the side (Eb).

I 2000
Ea = -- = ------ = 125 lux
d2 42

I Cos  2000 x 0.8

Eb = --------- = ------------ =
64 lux
d2 52

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Note:
I
Ea = --
x2
I Cos  I . x/y
Eb = -------- = -------
y2 y2

multiply above and below by x2

/y2

I (x/y)3 I Cos3
Eb = --------- = ---------
x2 x2

i.e.Eb = Ea Cos3

Example 1.4

A walkway is illuminated by Son 250W lamps each having a luminous intensity

of 4750 candela in all directions below the horizontal. Each lamp is installed at a
height of 6m and the distance between them is 16 metres. Calculate the
illuminance contributed by each lamp:

(a) (i) directly underneath,

(ii) 8 metres from the base,
(iii) 16 metres from the base,
(iv) 32 metres from the base.

(b) The total illuminance at:

(i) the base of each lamp post,
(ii) midway between the base of each lamp post.

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(c) Sketch an illuminance profile on a straight line joining the base of each
lamp post.

Let the illuminance at A, B, C and D be Ea, Eb, etc., respectively.

(a)
I 4750
Ea = --- = ------- = 132 Lux
d2 62

b = tan-1 (8/6) = 53.13 o

Eb = Ea Cos3b = 132 Cos3 53.13 o = 28.51 lux

Ec = Ea Cos3c = 132 Cos3 69.44 o = 5.71 lux

Ed = Ea Cos3d = 132 Cos3 79.38 o = 0.83 lux

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(b) The total illuminance at:

(i) the base of each lamp post,

Ea (total) = Ea + 2Ec + 2 Ed
= 132 + 11.42 + 1.66
= 145.08 lux.
(taking A as centre and adding the contributions from two lamps either side)

(b) The total illuminance at:

(ii) midway between the base of each lamp post.

Eb(total) = 2Eb + 2 Ed (approx.)

= 57.02 + 1.66
= 58.68 lux.

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1.5.4 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CANDELA AND LUMEN

The Candela. In 1948 an international standard was adopted for light intensity.
The candela (pronounced “candeela”) is approximately equal to one candle
power. It is defined as the luminous intensity of a point source at the centre of a
sphere of 1m radius which produces an illuminance of 1 lux on the inner surface
of the sphere.

The Steradian. This is like a three dimensional radian, sometimes called the unit
solid angle. The steradian is the solid angle subtended at the centre of a sphere
by surface areas equal to r2.

There are 2 radians in a circle and 4steradians in a sphere. Consider a sphere

of radius one metre, with a symmetrical point light source of 1 candela intensity
at its centre, the surface area of the sphere = 4r2
Therefore the surface area of a 1 metre radius sphere = 4  m2
I
E = -- = 1 lux = 1 lm/m2
d2
If there are 4 m2 then the source must produce 4 lumens in order to produce an
average illuminance of 1 lumen/m2 on the surface of the sphere.

CONCLUSION:
A lamp with an intensity of 1 candela produces 4 lumens of light flux.

Example 1.5 A 500 watt Tungsten Halogen lamp has an efficacy of 20

lumens per watt. Calculate its mean spherical intensity.

= 500 x 20 = 10000 lumens


I = ---- = ------ = 796. cd
44

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1.6 POINT SOURCE CALCULATIONS

This method of calculation is particularly suitable for outdoor schemes, (see

Example 1.4) with a small number of light sources and when it is necessary to
calculate the illuminance at a small number of points.

Computer programmes have allowed this method to be extended to schemes with

a large number of sources and where the illuminance must be calculated at a
large number of points.

It may also be suitable for indoor schemes where the light reflected onto the
working plane from walls, ceilings etc., is negligible. The point to point method
uses the inverse square law and cosine law, the light intensity in a given
direction is found from polar diagrams supplied by manufacturers.

1.6.1 POLAR DIAGRAMS

Light sources are seldom

symmetrical in output. We have
already seen that the light output in
a given direction is called the
luminous intensity.

If the light source was symmetrical

in output as in example 1.4, then
80 cd/1000 lm would be its
intensity in all directions as shown
in Fig. 1.18 by curve A. A more
realistic output for a bare lamp
would be as shown in the same
diagram by curve B. If reflectors
were used, the output would be
concentrated even more as shown
by curve C.

Polar diagrams allow the lighting designer to select suitable luminaires and
spacing distances based on an acceptable illuminance variation along the working
plane. They are also used to provide the designer with information on light
intensity in a given direction when using the point to point method of calculation.

Polar curve data is also supplied by lighting manufacturers in software packages

to allow accurate calculation of illuminance in schemes with zero reflectance.

Example 1.6
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A point light source has an output of 2000 lumens and intensity as shown by
curve C in Fig. 1.18 calculate the illuminance on a horizontal surface which is 2
metres beneath the source:

(i) directly beneath.

(ii) 2 metres to one side.

All values in Fig. 1.18 must be multiplied by 2 because the output of the
luminaire is 2000 lumens and the values are quoted per 1000 lumens.

(i) From Fig. 1.18, the intensity directly under the lamp = 250 x 2 = 500 cd.

I 500
 E = ---- = ------- = 125 lux
d2 22

(ii) From Fig 1.18a, the incident angle is 45 o. From the polar curve
(Fig. 1.18), the intensity at a 45 o angle = 200 x 2 = 400 cd.

I 400 x Cos 45o 400 x 0.707

 E = ---- Cos  = --------------- = ------------ = 35.35 lux
d2 2.822 8

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Example 1.7
A point source luminaire has an output as shown by the polar curve in Fig. 1.19.
It is mounted 2 metres above the working plane and is fitted with an 18 Watt
compact fluorescent lamp whose output is 1500 lumens. Calculate:

(i) The illuminance on the working plane directly under the lamp
(ii) The illuminance on the working plane 2 metres to one side.

1500
(i) From polar diagram I = 750 x ------------ = 1125 cd.
1000

I 1125
E = ----- E = -------- = 281.25 lux
d2 22

1500
(ii) I  = 450 x -------- = 675 cd
1000

from Fig. 1.19a, d = 2.828 m Cos  = 2/2.828 = 0.707

I Cos 
E = --------
d2

675 x 0.707
E = ------------- = 60 lux
(2.828)2

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1.7 TRANSMITTANCE, REFLECTANCE and ABSORPTION

When light falls on a surface, one or more of the following may occur:

1. Light is transmitted through it;

2. Light is reflected from it;
3. Light is absorbed as heat.

1.7.1 Transmittance
Most surfaces will not allow light pass through them but surfaces which do, are
referred to as translucent.

1.7.2 Reflectance
We have already seen that the luminance of a surface is the illuminance on it
multiplied by the surface reflectance. It therefore follows that:

Reflected Light
Reflectance = ------------------
Incident Light

1.7.3 Absorption
The light which is not transmitted or reflected is absorbed as heat. This is the
reason light coloured high reflectance clothing is preferred in summer.

Heating engineers normally consider all of the lighting load as a heat gain in the
room on the basis that all of the light is eventually absorbed as heat in the totality
of room surfaces.

1.7.4 Indirect Lighting Schemes

Indirect lighting schemes rely on reflected light from room surfaces to illuminate
the working plane. High reflectance surfaces are necessary if the scheme is to
be efficient. In addition, colours of surfaces must be carefully selected so that
the reflected light from these room surfaces is not colour distorted. This can be
achieved by using low chroma (pastel) colours on the room surfaces.

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1.8 Illuminance ( E) and Visual Performance.

1.8.1 A Historical Perspective

Research work on determining appropriate illuminance levels began in the

1930's. A link was established between the illuminance and the performance of
visual tasks. Visual performance was seen to improve as the illuminance was
increased up to 400 lux, at which point it levelled out. The onset of fatigue could
be delayed by increasing the illuminance to levels above 400 lux.

A norm of 500 lux was recommended by the I.E.S. in 1973 for general office
lighting. This value was used in the U.K., however, at the same time the
recommended levels in the U.S. were 1500 to 2000 lux. This reflected a
difference in emphasis and a different regard for the consumption of energy. The
subsequent oil crisis brought about a reduction of recommended levels in the
U.S. but those in the U.K. remained unchanged.

Modern research has also shown that visual task performance is also related to
the colour of the light and contrast. In this regard vertical illuminance is also
considered important. It is therefore important to consider a lighting scheme not
only in terms of quantity but quality as well. (refer to vector/scalar values,
modelling index, etc.)

1.8.2 Current Practice.

The CIBSE Code for Interior Lighting Design (1994) gives recommended
maintained illuminances for a wide variety of installations. The level of
illuminance required depends on 4 factors:

1. The importance of the visual task and the consequences of errors.

2. The difficulty of the visual task.
3. The duration for which the task is undertaken.
4. The eyesight of the user.

This recommended illuminance must be maintained throughout the life of the

installation and must take account of the reduction of light reaching the working
plane because of lamp ageing, dust collection and deterioration of the decor.

The design illuminance (maintained illuminance) is taken as the illuminance at

the end of the maintenance period (typically 2 years). This is different to the
method used in previous codes which used the lamp output at 2000 hours (LDL)
to calculate the average illuminance over the life of the installation.

1.8.2.1 Importance of task

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Performing a heart operation may not prove any more difficult visually than
assembling a piece of machinery. Nonetheless if one were on the operating table
one would hope there would be sufficient light to allow the surgeon perform the
operation with maximum efficiency and without error. It is clear that the
importance of the task is a major consideration.

1.8.2.2 Difficulty of task.

Fig 1.20 shows the relationship between

visual performance and task illuminance. It
is clear that performance improves
significantly up to a certain illuminance after
which there is no further significant
improvement. It is also clear that a higher
illuminance is required as the task gets more
demanding. For the average person, reading
and writing is easiest when the illuminance is
about 1000 lux.

In general, visual performance improves as

illuminance increases, however, at very high
illuminance levels glare becomes a problem and may even cause a reduction in
performance.

1.8.2.3 Duration of task

The duration of the task is also important Higher task illuminances increase the
optical depth of field thereby reducing the work required by the eye in adjusting
focus. Fatigue can be offset by using high illuminance levels.

1.8.2.4 Eyesight of user.

Human eyesight deteriorates with age and so older people require a higher
illuminance for a given task than younger people. The average 70 year old
requires up to 3 times the task illuminance of the average 20 year old.

Notwithstanding the above, in current European practice, an illuminance of 500

lux is recommended for offices where the task is mostly desk based (300 lux if
screen based). This seems a reasonable compromise between performance and
energy conservation.

1.9 LUMEN METHOD OF LIGHT CALCULATION

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This method is most suitable for interior lighting design , where a high proportion
of light on the working plane is reflected by internal surfaces. For external
applications or where the reflectance of the surfaces is unknown or may not be
relied upon (emergency lighting schemes), a utilisation factor for zero reflectance
may be used. The lumen method, sometimes called the luminous flux method of
calculation, is normally used to calculate the average illuminance on working
planes, or to calculate the number of luminaires required to provide a
specified average illuminance in rooms. The following formula is used:

N (n . ) . MF . UF
E = --------------------
A

or
ExA
N = -----------------
Mf . UF . ( . n)

Where:

N = Number of luminaires required

E = Maintained Illuminance (lux)

 = Initial lamp output (lumens)

n = Number of lamps in luminaire

MF = Maintenance factor

UF = Utilisation factor

A = Area of room (m2)

1.9.1 Number of Lamps / Luminaires.

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N is used to represent the number of luminaires and n is used to represent the
number of lamps in each luminaire.

1.9.2 Lamp Flux ( lumens)

The initial light output (100h) is now

used for calculations. A factor called
the lamp lumen maintenance factor
(LLMF) is then applied to allow for
the reduction in light output from the
lamp during the maintenance period.

Consider an installation where lamps

are to be replaced after 6000 hours
use. The lamp manufacturer's data is
checked to see the lamp output after
6000 hours use (as shown in Fig 1.21).
This figure is now divided by the
initial lamp lumens to get the LLMF.

Note: This is a change from the 1985

code which used the output at 2000h
called the lighting design lumens (LDL). Calculation of the maintenance factor is
detailed on the following pages.

Table 1.1

Typical recommended maintained Lux Limiting glare index

illuminances

Corridors and stairs 100 22

Warehouses 100 - 200 25
Medium bench and machine work 500 22
Fine painting spraying and finishing 750 22
Printing inspection 1000 19
Proof reading / drawing offices 750 16
General offices (desk based) 500 19
General offices (screen based) 300 19
Supermarkets 750 22

1.9.3 Maintenance Factor (MF)

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In the 1994 guide, Maintenance Factor (MF) is the term used to take account of
the reduction in illuminance over the maintenance period due to:

1. Reduced reflectances due to

the accumulation of dirt and
dust on room surfaces. Room
Surface Maintenance Factor.
(RSMF Fig. 1.22a).

2. Reduced light output from the

luminaire due to the
accumulation of dirt and dust
on the luminaire. Luminaire
Maintenance Factor.(LMF Fig.
1.22b).

3. Reduced light output due to the

Lamp Lumen Maintenance
Factor.(LLMF Fig. 1.21 and
1.22c)

4. Reduced light output due to

lamps failing. Manufacturer
data will give the percentage
lamp failures for a specific
number of hours operation. The
Lamp Survival Factor (LSF)
will be 1 if spot lamp
replacement is carried out.

MF = RSMF x LMF x LLMF x LSF

Note: The CIBSE Code for Interior

Lighting 1985 used the term Light
Loss Factor (now obsolete), which
took account of the reduction in light
output due to the accumulation of dirt
and dust on luminaires, deterioration
of room surfaces as well as the
reduction in light output due to lamp
depreciation.

Tables 1.2 to 1.6 reproduced the Code for Interior Lighting by kind permission of
the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers.

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Table 4.3
Table 4.4

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Table 4.5
Table 4.6

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Table 4.7

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Figure 4.13

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Example 1.9 Calculate the maintenance factor for an installation where
the LLMF, LMF and RSMF are as shown in Fig. 1.22. The luminaires are
cleaned after 3000 hours, the lamps are replaced after 6000 hours and room
surfaces are cleaned after 6000 hours. Spot replacement of failed lamps is also
carried out.

MF = RSMF x LMF x LLMF x LSF

Maintenance factor at 6000 hrs = 0.9 x 0.75 x 0.8 x 1 = 0.54

1.9.4 UTILISATION FACTOR

Lumens received on W.P.
UF = ---------------------------------
Lumens output of luminaires

Utilisation factor takes account of the

loss of light due to absorption on room
surfaces. It depends on 3 factors:

1. Type of Luminaire A luminaire with a

concentrated light output directed on the
working plane will have a higher UF than
a luminaire with a dispersed light output.

2. Room index. This takes account of the

length (L) and width (W) of the room and
the height of the luminaires above the
working plane (Hm).
LxW
R.I. = ------------
(L + W) Hm

3. Reflectances of Room Surfaces.

Bright colours with high reflectances
result in a higher UF. A high utilisation
factor will mean fewer lamps are needed
resulting in a more efficient energy usage
and a lower capital cost.

To determine the Utilisation Factor:

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1. Obtain reflectance factors for room surfaces from the architect or interior
designer. (See Table 1.7)

2. Acquire manufacturer's data for luminaire selected. (Table 1.8)

3. Calculate room index.

4. Evaluate utilisation factor from manufacturer's data. (Table 1.8)

Table 1.7 Typical Reflectance Factors

Colour Factor
White or Cream 0.7 or 0.8
Yellow 0.6
Light Green or Pink 0.5
Sky Blue or Grey 0.4
Beige or Brown 0.3

Table 2 Typical Manufacturer's data for a typical twin tube

fluorescent luminaire used to calculate Utilisation Factors.

Room index
Room
reflectances
C W F 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 4.00 5.00

0.7 0.5 0.2 NA 0.61 0.65 0.67 0.70 0.71 0.73 0.74 0.75

0.3 NA 0.58 0.62 0.64 0.67 0.69 0.71 0.73 0.74

0.1 NA 0.56 0.59 0.62 0.65 0.68 0.69 0.71 0.73

0.5 0.5 0.2 NA 0.60 0.63 0.65 0.68 0.69 0.70 0.72 0.73

0.3 NA 0.58 0.61 0.63 0.66 0.68 0.69 0.71 0.72

0.1 NA 0.56 0.59 0.61 0.64 0.66 0.68 0.69 0.71

0.3 0.5 0.2 NA 0.59 0.62 0.64 0.66 0.67 0.68 0.69 0.70

0.3 NA 0.57 0.60 0.62 0.64 0.66 0.67 0.68 0.69

0.1 NA 0.55 0.58 0.60 0.63 0.65 0.66 0.68 0.68

0.0 0.0 0.0 NA 0.54 0.57 0.58 0.61 0.62 0.63 0.65 0.65

Example 1.9
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Calculate the Utilisation Factor for a room with the following dimensions:
Length 8m; Width 6m; Height 3m; height of working plane 0.8m. The room
reflectances are Ceiling 0.5; Walls 0.3 and Floor 0.2.

LxW 8x6
R.I. = ------------ = ------------ = 1.558 (say 1.5)
(L + W) Hm (8 + 6)2.2

From Table 1.8 the Utilisation factor can be read as 0.63

1.9.5 SPACE: HEIGHT RATIO (SHR)

This is the ratio of space between

luminaires (S) to their height above the
working plane (Hm).

Manufacturers will specify a

recommended SHR for each of their
luminaires. Ensuring that luminaires
are spaced within the recommended
value will mean an acceptable variation
in illuminance across the working
plane. This is expressed in terms of the
Uniformity Ratio (see definitions).

Example 1. 10 A factory area is 40m long, 20m wide and is 8m high.

Point source luminaires are suspended 1.5 metres below ceiling level. The
working plane is 1 metre high. Calculate the minimum number of luminaires
which must be installed to conform with a recommended SHR of 1.5 : 1.

Hm = 8 - (1.5 + 1) = 5.5m

SHR = 1.5 : 1

therefore S = 1.5 x 5.5 = 8.25m

W 20
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Min. no. of rows = --- = ---- = 2.4 (3 rows)
S 8.25

L 40
Min. no. of luminaires per row = --- = ---- = 4.85 (5 luminaires)
S 8.25

This means that the minimum number to conform with SHR. requirement is 3
rows with 5 luminaires per row. More than this number can be used if desired
for reasons such as balance, effect, control or ease of installation.

Assuming that three rows of five luminaires is suitable, the actual spacing is
determined as follows:
W 20
Spacing between rows (S) = ----------- = ---- = 6.67m.
No of rows 3

Note: The spacing between the last row and the wall should < 0.5 S. i.e.< 3.33m

L 40
Spacing in rows (S) = ------------ = ------ = 8m
No per row 5

Note: If work is to be carried out at the perimeter of the room, a spacing of 0.33 S
to the wall may be used.

Linear Luminaires
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The relevant spacing maximum transverse and axial spacing data will be
supplied by the manufacturer. The spacing is usually taken between centres.

(Note: the maximum recommended transverse SHR is usually different from the
axial SHR where linear luminaires are used).

Where high levels of illuminance are

required, it is common practice to
use continuous rows of luminaires
with the transverse spacing at the
maximum permissible. In this way,
installation costs will be kept to a
minimum, particularly where
luminaires are suspended below the
ceiling.

The lighting installation must

however be co-ordinated with other
services and compromise with air
conditioning outlets and other
ceiling mounted equipment is often
necessary in practice.

Example 1.11

The factory in example 1.10 is to be illuminated using continuous rows of twin

1500mm fluorescents. Calculations indicate that 72 luminaires are required.
Design a suitable layout given a mounting height above the working plane of
5.5m and the following SHR's apply.

Transverse 2.00 : 1 (spacing between rows)

Axial 1.75 : 1 (spacing in rows)

(i) Spacing between rows: Hm = 5.5m, therefore S = 5.5 x 2 = 11m

Two continuous rows of fluorescents 10 metres apart and 5 metres from each
side wall would conform with the SHR requirement, this would mean using 36
luminaires per row and these would not fit in the 40m available.
i.e. 36 x 1.5 = 54m. which is longer than the building.

Note the actual physical dimensions of luminaires with 1.5m tubes is 1.6m
approximately.

40
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Try 3 rows of luminaires with 24 luminaires per row. (--- = 1.67m.) seems O.K.
24

i.e. the luminaires will be spaced 1.67m

apart (centre to centre) and
1.67
---- = 0.83 m from end walls
2
The transverse spacing is now 20m
divided by 3, which is 6.67m. Since this
is less than the maximum spacing, the
effect will give a more uniform
distribution of light.

Example 1.12

An office area measures 16m x 8m and is 2.7 metres high. It is to be illuminated

to an average value of 500 lux. 600mm x 600mm recessed luminaires, each
containing 4 lamps are used. Each lamp has an output of 1400 lumens.
Utilisation factor is 0.5 and maintenance factor is 0.75.

(i) Calculate the number of luminaires required.

(ii) Sketch a layout of the scheme indicating the spacing between luminaires.

E x A
N = --------------------
MF x UF x (n x )
E = 500 lux
A = 16 x 8 = 128m2
MF = 0.75
UF = 0.5
n = 4 lamps
 = 1400 lumens
500 x 128
N = ---------------------- = 30.5 luminaires.
0.75 x 0.5 x (4 x 1400)

Assumptions:

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1. Desk height 0.7m therefore Hm = 2 m

2. SH ratio = 1.5 : 1, Therefore max spacing = 3 metres

3. There are no restrictions with regard to ceiling tile positions. (in practice tiles
will normally restrict spacing to multiples of 0.6m.

8
Min. no of rows = ---- = 2.7 (i.e. 3)
3

3 rows of 10 would give a spacing of 1.6m between centres.

An alternative layout would be 4 rows of 8 luminaires.

4 rows of 8 would be preferable as they would give a square layout with identical
spacings. In practice it is likely that ceiling tiles would restrict spacings to
multiples of 0.6m (the size of the ceiling tiles)

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Example 1.12
An office area measures 30m x 15m. The ceiling to desk height is 2 metres.
The area is to be illuminated to a general level of 500 lux using twin lamp 32
watt VDT luminaires with a SHR of 1.25. Each lamp has an initial output of 85
lumens per watt. The lamps are operated for 6000 hrs (2 years) before being
replaced. Lamps and luminaires are cleaned annually and the room is cleaned
every 3 years.

(a) Using Table 1.9, find the utilisation factor.

(b) Using tables 1.2 to 1.6 find the maintenance factor.
(c) Calculate the number of luminaires required and design a suitable lighting
scheme.

Table 1.9 Utilisation Factors SHR (nom) 1.5

Room Room index

reflectances
C W F 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 4.00 5.00

0.7 0.5 0.2 0.53 0..57 0..60 0..62 0..64 0..66 0..67 0.69 0.69

0.3 0.50 0.54 0.57 0.59 0.62 0.64 0.65 0.67 0.68

0.1 0.48 0.52 0.55 0.57 0.61 0.63 0.64 0.66 0.67

Solution:

(a) assume a bright interior with room reflectances 70% ceiling, 50% walls and
20% floor. The top row of the table applies.

L x W 30 x 15
Room index = --------------- = ------------ = 5
(L + W) H m (30 + 15)2

from the table 1.9, U F = 0.69

(b) LLMF = 0.87 (Table 1.3 lamp lumen maintenance factor)

LMF = 0.81 (Table 1.5 luminaire maintenance factor)
RSMF = 0.95 (Table 1.6 room surface maintenance factor)
LSF = 0.95 (Table 1.3 lamp survival factor)

Maintenance Factor (M.F.) = LLMF x LMF x RSMF x LSF

= 0.87 x 0.81 x 0.95 x 0.95
= 0.636

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E x A
(c) N = -----------------------
MF x UF x  x n

 = 85 x 32 = 2720 lumens per lamp

500 x 30 x 15
N = ---------------------------- = 94 luminaires
0.636 x 0.69 x 2720 x 2

Hm = 2m; SHR = 1.25  max spacing = 2.5m

15
Number of rows required = -------- = 6
2.5

Round off number of luminaires to 96, allowing 16 per row

30 15
Axial spacing ----- = 1.875m; Transverse spacing = ---- = 2.5m
16 6

Example 1.13

A factory measures 50m x 30m x 6m high. A general lighting scheme is to

illuminate the whole area to 500 lux maintained illuminance using 1000 watt
metal halide lamps with an initial efficacy of 90 lumens per watt. Maintenance
factor is 0.6 and utilisation factor is 0.5. A space height ration of 1.5 : 1 is
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recommended for the luminaire chosen and a mounting height of 5m over
working plane is assumed. Design a suitable lighting scheme.

 = 1000 x 90 = 90,000 lumens per lamp initially. There will be a reduction

in lamp output over time but this is taken account of in the maintenance factor.

ExA 500 x 50 x30

N= -------------- = ----------------------- = 27.7
MF x UF x  0.6 x 0.5 x 90,000

therefore 28 lamps are required.

Check space height ratios for length and width.

4 rows of 7 spaced as shown is an acceptable design.

Sample questions

1 A Factory area measures 30m x 15m and is 5m high. The factory is to be

provided with general lighting to a level of 300 lux. Giving reasons for your
choice, specify for the above installation:

i two suitable lamp types

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ii two suitable luminaire types.

2 Determine the utilisation factor for the factory described in question 1

using table Q2 and assuming that the surface reflectances are: Ceiling 50%,
Walls 50% and Floor 20%.

3 Using the CIBSE code for interior lighting determine the most suitable
maintenance period / Maintenance Factor for the factory described in question 1

Assume that the following applies:

i tri-phosphor lamps are used
ii The factory works a double shift six day week
iii The luminaires are maintenance category C
iv The environment is described as normal
v The luminaire flux distribution is direct/indirect

4 Design a suitable general lighting scheme for the area described in

question 1 and sketch a layout of the proposal.

Solution 1:
i Lamps - LPMV - tubular fluorescent
- HPMV (MBI) - Metal Halide
Both lamps have high efficacy and good colour rendering

ii Luminaires

Reflectors ensuring a high Downward Light Output Ratio (DLOR) are

recommended as these luminaires are normally suspended and/or ceiling voids
often have low reflectances in factories.

Solution 2 Determine Utilisation factor.

30 x 15
Room Index (RI) = --------------- = 2.5
(30 + 15) x 4

Table Q2 Utilisation Factors

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Room Room index
reflectances
C W F 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 4.00 5.00

0.5 0.5 0.2 NA 0.60 0.63 0.65 0.68 0.69 0.70 0.72 0.73

0.3 NA 0.58 0.61 0.63 0.66 0.68 0.69 0.71 0.72

0.1 NA 0.56 0.59 0.61 0.64 0.66 0.68 0.69 0.71

Utilization factor = 0.69

Solution 3 Determine the Maintenance period / Maintenance Factor

Using the data provided and tables 1.2 to 1.6.

The number of hours of usage per year = 5000 (table 1.2)

LLMF 1yr. = 0.89 2yr. = 0.85 (table 1.4)
LSF 1yr. = 1 2yr. = 0.85
Recommended cleaning period is 1yr. (table 1.4)
LMF 1 yr. cat. C = 0.81 (table 1.5)
RSMF 1 yr. (medium/large) (direct/indirect) = 0.88 (table 1.6)
MF = LLMF x LSF x LMF x RSMF

Alternative maintenance schedules:

(i) Clean every year. + group lamp replace every 2 years.

(MF = 0.85 x 0.85 x 0.81 x 0.88 = 0.51)
(ii) Clean every year. + spot lamp replace + group lamp replace every 2 year
(MF = 0.85 x 1.0 x 0.81 x 0.88 = 0.61)
(iii) Clean and group lamp replace every 1 year 3 months.
(MF = 0.89 x 1.0 x 0.81 x 0.88 = 0.63)

Select option (ii) and benefit from a maintenance factor of 0.61 (i.e. a 20%
energy saving compared with option (i).

Solution 4. Using linear 58W 1500mm tri-phospor fluorescents.

lamp = 58 x 90 = 5220 lumens

assume twin tube luminaires.

ExA
N = -----------------
Mf . UF . ( . n)

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300 x 30 x 15
N = -------------------------- = 30.7 (say 31)
0.61 x 0.69 (5220 x 2)

Three rows of 10 luminaires would be a possible solution.

Assume mounting height (Hm = 3.5m)

and a max. SHR of 1.5
Maximum spacing = 3.5 x 1.5 = 5.85m

30 luminaires provide an overall average maintained illuminance of 293 lux

which is deemed acceptable.

1.10 UPLIGHTING

1.10.1 Introduction. Uplighters illuminate the ceiling and upper walls. These
surfaces act as secondary sources providing soft diffused lighting to the room.
There will be no excessive glare from VDT screens irrespective of the viewers
position provided there are no stark contrasts of room surface luminances, .
Uplighting may be used to enhance the architectural features of interiors,
however care is necessary to ensure that undesireable shadows are not cast.

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Conspicuous reflections such as scalloping must be avoided. Ceilings and walls

should be matt with high reflectance and white or pastel colours. Nonetheless an
uplighting scheme is less efficient than standard ceiling mounted scheme by
about 10% to 20%. A room illuminated by uplighting will appear bright and airy
though perhaps a little boring. Visual stimuli are important such as colours and
textures. These colours should not form part of the main reflecting surfaces.

1.10.2 CALCULATIONS

1.10.2.1 To Calculate number of luminaires required

The lumen method of calculation may be used but there is a change to the use of
UF. The following formulae apply:
ExA
N = -----------------
 x n x MF x UF

UF = ULOR x TFCF

Where: UF = Utilisation factor for uplighters

ULOR = upward light output ratio of luminaire
TFCF = transfer factor (see table 5.21 from CIBSE code for
interior lighting)
N = Number of luminaires
E = Maintained average illuminance (lux)
A = Area of room (m2)
 = Initial bare lamp lumens (lm)
n = Number of lamps per luminaire
MF = Maintenance factor
UF = Utilisation factor

The number of luminaires required can be calculated from this formula. This
does not however, ensure that the illuminance variation over the working plane is
acceptable. Maximum and average ceiling luminances must also be calculated
to ensure a satisfactory result (see chapter 6)

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