A new lighting system is now operating in the hazardous (Ex) area of one of Poland’s major chemical plants, powered by an R. Stahl central battery system supplied by ASE ATEX. Compared with alternative solutions, this approach offers a number of advantages. A CBS (central battery system) delivers far more than backup power: it is an advanced control unit that provides detailed visibility and continuous monitoring of an entire installation—potentially comprising more than 4,000 luminaires. By streamlining lighting maintenance, the central battery system also helps reduce overall operating costs.
Luminaires with their own emergency power supply are a good solution when their number is too limited to justify the use of a central battery system.
Providing backup power for lighting in case of a power supply interruption is a mandatory requirement. There are, however, several ways to address this need. Luminaires may be equipped with their own batteries to ensure operation during a power outage or system fault. This solution, however, does not allow for precise identification of the source of the problem or all affected components. In addition, battery packs require regular maintenance - often with battery life warranties limited to two years - whereas a CBS is designed for up to ten years of continuous operation. It enables immediate identification of luminaires that are no longer supplied from the mains, and any battery maintenance is always carried out in a safe area, regardless of where the luminaires are installed.
A UPS can also provide safe emergency power for lighting from a non-hazardous area. However, it does not offer the same level of control as a central battery system. Using a CBS means receiving feedback from every luminaire via addressable modules and the ability to assign individual identifiers to each fitting. It is an emergency lighting power solution that delivers both operational confidence and convenience
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The central battery system in the completed project
Any sufficiently extensive lighting system can benefit from a CBS. It is an excellent way to ensure not only emergency power supply, but also power redundancy during normal operation. The system is available in multiple configurations and sizes, based on a standard rack cabinet design with either an integrated or external battery. The battery itself is stored under controlled and stable conditions in full compliance with Polish and European standards, including CNBOP requirements.
A central battery system is a tailor-made solution. Based on lighting designs using R. Stahl luminaires and their associated photometric curves, the entire system can be precisely engineered. With access to the appropriate software, such as DIALux®, it is possible to select the right luminaires and define all CBS parameters to match specific project requirements. Take control of your facility’s lighting today with R. Stahl and ASE ATEX.
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