Selecting Effective Lighting Controls: A Guide To Bulletin 500 Lighting Contactors.pdf

Selecting Effective Controls for Diverse Applications

This white paper provides a concise guide to selecting lighting controls, with a particular focus on lighting contactors, for various settings. It highlights different categories, applications, and control methods while offering practical considerations for optimal selection.

Key Takeaways:

Three Categories of Lighting Contactors:
Feeder Disconnect Type: 2-4 pole, up to 2250A, ideal for large load control (e.g., full-bus lighting panelboards).
Multi-Pole: 20-30A per pole, used for multi-branch circuit control and individual luminaire control.
Low-Voltage Relays: 20-35A, suitable for selective branch circuit or luminaire control using low-voltage signaling.
Control Methods: Two-wire, three-wire (start/stop), timing controls, and sensor-based systems offer diverse control options.
Application Considerations:

Size of Individual Lighting Area: Larger areas may require higher ampere contactors.
Facility Use: Residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial facilities have distinct control needs.
Existing Facilities: Assess existing wiring and control schemes for compatibility.
European Common Market: Adhere to relevant standards (e.g., CE marking) for international applications.
Advantages of Lighting Contactors: Enhanced energy management, supervisory control, flexibility, and ease of servicing.

Specific Topics Covered:

Advantages of remote controlled lighting contactors over manual switches.
Modular design allowing for interchangeable contact blocks and coils.
NEMA vs. Definite Purpose (DP) designs.
Two-wire, three-wire, and start/stop control configurations.
Timing controls and sensor integration for automated lighting.
* Level controls for precise dimming or on/off setpoints.