High-level lighting
Utrecht
High-level lighting
The lighting in the David de Wied building of Utrecht University was outdated; more than half of it no longer worked. Many lamps are hung at great heights, making replacement difficult. The university also wanted to make a sustainability leap by switching to LED lighting.
Van den Pol was asked for advice; which type of luminaires is most suitable, what is the best approach for replacement? Various options and the associated costs were worked out. In addition to light quality and energy savings, lifespan was an important consideration.
Test setup
After the university had determined its preference, a test setup was set up. Insight into the end result in advance was important, especially because a different light colour was chosen; from 3,000 to 4,000 Kelvin, a neutral light that tends towards daylight.
Wecycle
The 800 lamps were mostly delivered on location. Van den Pol works together with the non-profit organization Wecycle for the disposal of used lamps. They collect all old fixtures via containers and ensure that they are recycled.
Highest scaffolding ever
The lamps in the David de Wied building are located at a great height, up to 20 meters. The lamps in the David de Wied building are located at a great height, up to 20 meters. To ensure safe working conditions, several scaffolding units were built, including the highest ever used by Van den Pol. Mobile scaffolding is used for lighting in lower ceilings. Additional challenge: the building remained in use during the replacement.
No fear of heights
Due to the special nature of this project, two experienced mechanics were deployed. Both colleagues – without a fear of heights – were involved in the preparations at an early stage. Because the building remained in use, it was crucial that work was carried out carefully and with an eye for the environment. Nuisance was kept to a minimum.
Better light, less energy
All lighting was replaced in three weeks. The university building has been extensively renovated, with much better lighting and significantly lower energy consumption. To the great satisfaction of the customer. Users of the building are also happy with the new lighting.
