What is a Beam Angle in Lighting and How to Choose?

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Illumination transcends the mere act of activating a switch to dispel darkness; it amalgamates scientific principles with artistic considerations to augment the texture, focus, and ambiance of your surroundings. Despite its significance, the beam angle in lighting design is often overlooked.

Table of Contents

The beam angle is a straightforward metric to optimize light coverage within your residence or building. Contemporary lighting projects invariably incorporate calculations related to beam angle and light spread. While beam angle is frequently employed in lighting endeavors, a comprehensive understanding of its nuances and practical applications still needs to be discovered by many.

Overlooking the beam angle is akin to painting without considering the brush technique—an oversight that significantly influences the spread and intensity of a light source. Mastery of beam angles empowers you to regulate the brightness of space, mold its ambiance, and, consequently, influence its perceived size and utility.

In light of this, we present a thorough guide to familiarize you with the intricacies of Beam Angles in Lighting, aiding you in selecting the ideal beam angle to meet your specific requirements.

What is a Beam Angle?

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beam angle comparison

Beam Angle Comparison

The term “beam angle” transcends industry terminology; it represents a mathematical measurement that elucidates the extent and scope of a light’s luminosity.

The beam angle serves as a metric for the dispersion of light from the source, such as a light bulb. A wider beam angle yields more extensive light coverage but with reduced intensity, whereas a narrower angle concentrates the light, resulting in higher intensity within a limited area.

Envision it as a cone of light emanating from your light fixture. A broader cone covers more area but with diminished brightness, while a narrower cone concentrates the light, generating an intense yet confined illumination. Achieving an optimal lighting setup in diverse spaces necessitates a nuanced understanding of this equilibrium.

The luminous intensity is commonly quantified in Lumens, with measurements expressed as Lumens per square meter, known as “lux,” and Lumens per square foot, referred to as “foot candles.” The aggregate lumens required to illuminate a room vary based on the light type and dimensions.

Light Distribution and Types of Angles

The beam angle is a parameter that defies a one-size-fits-all approach, offering a spectrum ranging from narrow to wide, each presenting its advantages and limitations. For precise spotlighting or focused illumination, narrow beam angles, typically less than 30 degrees, are optimal. Medium beam angles, spanning from 30 to 60 degrees, provide even light distribution suitable for various lighting requirements. In scenarios requiring expansive coverage, such as landscapes or conference rooms, wide beam angles exceeding 60 degrees prove effective.

For Examples:

What does 120 Beam Angle Mean?
“120” denotes the degree of the light fixture’s angle. A 120° angle characterizes a wide beam angle for light bulbs, capable of covering an entire room when the ceiling height permits.

What does Narrow Beam Angle Mean?
A narrow beam angle pertains to a bulb with an angle of less than 30°. Further subcategories within narrow beam angles include Spot angle or even narrower beam angles.

Common Varieties of Beam Angles:
Beam angles can be referenced using two methods: numerical degrees (e.g., 10°, 60°, 120°) or descriptive terminology such as narrow, spot, wide, wider angle, and so forth.

Degrees vs. NEMA Classification of Light

While “degrees” are commonly used in consumer lighting conversations, beam angle terminology and standards lack universality. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) formulates standards explicitly designed for industrial applications, making it the most extensively embraced standard in the field. These classifications are typically denoted by two numbers, such as “7×7” or “5×15,” indicating the width and height of the beam. The NEMA classification considers the beam’s angle and shape, which may manifest as oval, rectangular, or trapezoidal. Acquainting oneself with NEMA classifications and degrees is essential when selecting industrial lighting, providing insights into how the light will function.

common beam angles

Common Beam Angles

Exploring the Scientific and Technical Aspects of Beam Angles

A. Distinguishing Beam Angle from Field Angle
A comprehensive grasp of the disparity between beam and field angles is paramount in lighting design. The beam angle constitutes the focal point of the lighting area, delivering the most intense illumination comparable to a spotlight centering on a stage actor. In contrast, the field angle serves as the backdrop, enveloping the beam angle with a diffuser to produce a softer, less intense radiance, culminating in a harmonious lighting effect. In practical terms, the beam angle provides focus and intensity, while the field angle contributes to the overall ambiance by imparting gentle illumination to the softer peripheries.

B. 3H3V vs. 30 Degrees
Navigating the intricacies of beam angle measurement units can be perplexing. While the term “degrees” is straightforward, the alternative unit, 3H3V, encapsulates both horizontal (H) and vertical (V) light spread. In scenarios like illuminating expansive warehouses, the 3H3V measurement proves invaluable as it considers both width and height, offering a comprehensive understanding of how the light will operate in multidirectional spaces. Unlike degrees, which reveal only one dimension, 3H3V provides insights into three dimensions, enhancing its significance in spaces with diverse lighting orientations.

What Makes Beam Angle Crucial?

The selection of an appropriate beam angle holds significance for both aesthetic appeal and efficient illumination. Opting for the right beam angle allows illuminating larger areas with fewer lights, translating to energy cost savings.

The Beam Angle is pivotal in determining light coverage area; a higher angle results in broader coverage, and conversely, a lower angle provides more focused illumination. To adequately illuminate the floor of a 40×40 square foot room, for instance, a single 60° light positioned at the center of a 34 ft. high ceiling suffices. Alternatively, two 60° lights, spaced ten ft. apart, are suitable for a 17 ft. high ceiling center.

Beyond mere functionality, the beam angle contributes to the emotional ambiance of a space. Varied angles can evoke distinct moods, ranging from dynamic and invigorating to tranquil and soothing. Narrow beam angles prove ideal for creating focused lighting in spaces dedicated to activities like reading or art studios. Conversely, wide angles ensure even light distribution, fostering a relaxed atmosphere conducive to socializing or leisure.

What is the Method for Measuring Beam Angles?

Utilize this straightforward trigonometric formula to compute beam angles (beam spread):

Angle = 2* Tan-1 [Beam Spread / Light Distance]

beam angle measure

Beam Angle Measure

The beam spread referred to here constitutes 50% of the overall light output, and any light beyond this concentrated center is termed “spill light” or “beam field.”

The calculation of beam angles for bulbs occurs in a controlled environment using precise instruments. However, for general consumers, there is no need to calculate beam angles personally; this information is readily available on the light bulb’s packaging or the manufacturer’s website. This section serves as informational content to enhance your understanding of beam angles.

Beam Angle Choosing Standard

Having grasped the significance of beam angles and discerned the distinctions between narrower and wider options, it is now opportune to establish criteria. In identifying the most suitable beam angle for your building, it is crucial to consider the specific factors outlined below.

Building Type

Regarding beam angles, a one-size-fits-all approach is certainly not applicable. The distinctive architectural characteristics of various buildings necessitate unique lighting considerations. A warehouse, for example, requires a different beam angle than a quaint café. To make an informed choice regarding the appropriate beam angle, it is paramount first to comprehend the purpose and layout of your building.

Two critical building types come into play when contemplating beam angles:

  1. Residential Buildings
  2. Commercial Buildings

Residential buildings prioritize uniform illumination room-by-room, typically requiring a wide-angle light positioned centrally. On the other hand, commercial buildings, such as restaurants or factories, focus on efficiently illuminating expansive floor areas. Medium to narrow-angled lights are distributed over a substantial ceiling expanse for these settings. Restaurants, in particular, emphasize mood and accent lighting as integral elements of their illumination strategy.

Light Fixtures

Among the pivotal factors influencing beam angle selection, the type of light fixture plays a significant role. As the foundation for lighting, a light fixture is typically affixed to a wall or ceiling and may house light sources such as bulbs or LEDs. It’s noteworthy that light fixtures can modify the beam angle of a light bulb. For instance, a hanging pendant reduces the angle, while a recessed light fixture may amplify it.

Number of Lights

Illumination is not solely about brightness but also the quantity of fixtures deployed. The spatial constraints of your area can guide your decision. Fewer fixtures with wider beam angles may be sufficient for limited spaces, whereas achieving a specific effect might necessitate multiple fixtures with narrower angles. A thoughtful assessment of your requirements aids in determining the optimal quantity and quality of light needed.

Lighting Type

Traditionally, lighting can be categorized into three types, each serving distinct purposes.

  1. Ambient Lighting: This involves diffused lighting to illuminate an entire room.
  2. Accent Lighting: Focused and indirect lighting typically directed towards walls for a specific aesthetic.
  3. Task Lighting: Focused and direct lighting that highlights a specific working area, such as a desk.

Ambient lighting benefits from wide beam angles, whereas task and accent lighting are better suited for narrower angles.

Ceiling Height

Light intensity diminishes with distance from the source, particularly impacting spaces with varying ceiling heights. Residential structures, like houses or apartments, often feature lower ceilings, typically ten ft. or less. In such settings, wide-angled lights are apt for comprehensive room coverage. On the contrary, commercial or industrial buildings, such as factories and warehouses, boast higher ceilings, typically exceeding 25 ft. These spaces demand robust and narrow beam angles and the deployment of multiple light fixtures for comprehensive area coverage.

Bulb Types

Having delved into light fixtures, it’s pertinent to highlight the considerable variations that bulbs can introduce. A ubiquitous and easily recognizable bulb is the pear-shaped Type A bulb, often symbolically associated with the moment when an idea strikes and a lightbulb appears above one’s head.

Bulb types

Bulb Types

Type A bulbs inherently lack directionality, prompting reflectors to channel and direct their light. In the realm of modern lighting, particularly with the prevalence of LED technology, bulbs commonly come in PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector), BR (Bulged Reflector), and MR (Multifaceted Reflector) casings, each designed to enhance and control the direction of light emission.

What is the difference between PAR, BR, and MR-type Bulbs?

Various bulb types, such as PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector), BR (Bulged Reflector), and MR (Multifaceted Reflector), possess intrinsic beam angles tailored for specific applications. PAR bulbs excel in spotlighting applications, while BR bulbs offer a softer and more diffused light quality.

  1. BR (Bulged Reflector): Beam Angle > 90°
  2. PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector): Beam Angle > 45°
  3. MR (Multifaceted Reflector): Beam Angle 15° – 45°

Types of Beam Angles

types beam angle

Beam Angle Types

Spot: 5° – 18°
Spot beam angles, spanning from 5 to 18 degrees, are optimal for precisely highlighting specific objects or features within a space. Ideal for accentuating art pieces, retail displays, or performers on stage, the narrower the angle, the more intense and focused the light. Spotlights are common in museums, galleries, and upscale retail spaces.

Narrow: 18° – 30°
For focused illumination, select beam angles falling within the 18 to 30-degree range. Suited for settings like reading corners, kitchen countertops, or workstations, these angles concentrate light more than wider alternatives, creating a focused environment that enhances productivity and minimizes eye strain.

Narrow Flood: 30° – 60°
The narrow flood category, spanning from 30 to 60 degrees, provides a versatile middle ground for beam angle selection. Often employed in smaller rooms like offices or kitchens, this type of lighting offers a balanced distribution—wide enough for comprehensive coverage yet allowing for some focus. It strikes a harmonious balance between not being overly harsh or too soft.

Flood: 60° – 90°
Rooms with larger dimensions or open spaces benefit from flood beam angles ranging from 60 to 90 degrees, delivering a soft, even light. Widely used in places such as supermarkets, warehouses, and auditoriums that demand extensive coverage, these broader angles effectively diffuse light across expansive areas, reducing the number of fixtures required.

Wide Flood: 90° – 120°
Outdoor areas like parks, buildings, and streets benefit from flood angles between 90 and 120 degrees. The expansive angle ensures wider light coverage, enhancing visibility and safety in open spaces.

Elliptical: 5° – 50° + 90° – 180°
Elliptical beam angles offer asymmetrical light distribution, providing versatility for unique applications such as wall grazing or illuminating pathways. Featuring customizable horizontal angles ranging from 5 to 50 degrees and vertical angles spanning from 90 to 180 degrees, elliptical lighting is tailored for specialized applications across diverse settings.

Which Beam Angle should you Choose?

With a comprehensive understanding of beam angles in lighting, we can now transition to the selection process. The choice of beam angle is contingent upon the specific lighting application. The predominant categorizations guiding beam angle selection are those tailored for residential and commercial buildings.

Beam Angle for Residential Building

As mentioned, residential buildings typically feature lower ceilings and more confined square footage. Consequently, similar beam angles are applicable for both houses and apartments, given their analogous lighting requirements.

A medium beam angle ranging from 40° to 60° is generally adequate for most houses to ensure proper room illumination. However, the precise beam angle may vary slightly based on the factors above.

Since living rooms are often more expansive and may be interconnected with kitchens or dining areas, a wider beam angle exceeding 60° is recommended to cover the space effectively. Given the lower light requirements in living rooms, fewer light units suffice.

In specific areas of a house, such as staircases or walk-in closets with ceilings around 9-10 ft., a narrower beam angle of 25° is a standard choice.

Typically, residential spaces employ a diverse range of lighting styles. Incorporating an assortment of lighting units with different beam angles enhances visual aesthetics and facilitates the integration of accent and task lighting, offering a versatile and well-rounded illumination solution.

residential building lighting

Residential Building Lighting

Beam Angle for Commercial Building

Commercial buildings are diverse, encompassing various types with distinct lighting objectives. To facilitate comprehension, we can subdivide commercial buildings into specific classifications:

Retail Stores:
Retail establishments prioritize showcasing products in a favorable light. Achieving an ideal presentation involves minimizing shadows and glares while providing intense ambient lighting throughout the store. Therefore, a preference for narrow beam angles and multiple light bulbs is observed. For instance, jewelry stores often employ beam angles under 10° within display cases, while clothing store lighting may opt for 30° or wider beam angles for mannequins.

Restaurants:
Restaurants deviate from conventional commercial spaces as they emphasize aesthetics and mood lighting. Given their typical operating hours in the evening, these establishments prefer to avoid overly bright environments. A standard restaurant lighting setup often incorporates beam angles of 25° for dining tables.

Offices:
Office spaces accommodate multiple employees, necessitating a balanced lighting solution to prevent harsh glares and shadows. Adequate lighting is crucial to avoid eye strain, especially for those working extensively in front of computer screens. In office settings, wide flood beam angles, typically around 60°, are preferred, with narrower beam angles reserved for task lighting.

Warehouses:
Warehouses, characterized by high ceilings, require narrower beam angles to maintain light intensity reaching the floor. The specific beam angle selection varies depending on the ceiling height.

Real-Life Examples of Beam Angles

Here is a table delineating suitable real-world scenarios corresponding to different beam angles.

Examples of Beam Angles

Conclusion

Presented here is a comprehensive guide detailing beam angles in lighting. This article has provided a foundational understanding, empowering you to apply this knowledge when selecting lighting solutions for your building.

While this section concludes our in-depth examination, it marks your starting point. Armed with these valuable insights, you can now leverage beam angles to significantly enhance your lighting configuration, whether for a simple home or a large-scale commercial building.

Though beam angles may initially appear complex, they become more approachable upon deconstruction. Utilize wide beam angles for well-lit spaces and narrow angles to accentuate specific areas. Feel free to use beam angles to craft an optimal lighting environment.

For those who find selecting beam angles arduous, our team of experts at Upward Lighting is available to provide guidance. We offer a varied selection of indoor and outdoor lighting solutions specifically designed for use in both residential and commercial structures.

Upward Lighting boasts an impressive selection of lighting solutions encompassing a wide range of beam angles. Noteworthy among our offerings are Outdoor LED Step Lights, LED Underwater Fountain Lights, LED Recessed Lighting, and Commercial LED Track Lighting.

For a personalized quote customized to your lighting requirements, please get in touch with us at your earliest convenience.

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