HID Vessel Illumination

While LED lighting has become the marine standard due to its longevity and efficiency, it often falls short in wet maritime climates across the pacific north west. Specifically, high-intensity LEDs can significantly reduce visibility during wet and rainy weather due to reflected glare from rain and moisture. To address this, Britmar Marine has developed the ST76 high intensity discharge (HID), a floodlight designed with wavelengths that penetrate moisture and reduce deck-level glare to ensure visibility where traditional lighting may reduce it.

The science behind this improvement lies in how light interacts with water. HID technology utilizes wavelengths that reduce photon scatter in rain and moisture while high intensity LEDs scatter their photons. By minimizing this atmospheric scatter, HID units allow vessels operating in wet climates to maintain a clear line of sight even during heavy storms. This technological advantage is particularly relevant in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, where maritime safety depends on the crew's ability to maintain a clear view of the deck at all times.

The practical benefits of this technology are most evident in the commercial fishing industry. As fleets prepare for seasonal openings, deck safety and productivity depends on constant clear visibility. HID units provide the precise illumination required for sorting and processing catch, ensuring that deck crews can work safely and efficiently regardless of the time of day or weather conditions.

To deliver this performance in these climates, Britmar Marine distributes a ruggedly constructed ST76 HID using high pressure sodium (HPS) or metal halide (MH) lamps. The unit's housing is crafted from durable steel, featuring a safety glass diffuser and a high-efficiency aluminum reflector. Designed for open waters, the unit achieves a comprehensive IP67 protection rating and maintains a manageable weight of 12.2 kilograms, making it an ideal piece of equipment for any vessel.