Introduction – Why Proper Installation Matters in Airport Lighting
When it comes to airport lighting, most people focus on the lights themselves (runway edge lights, taxiway lights, approach lighting systems), but few consider the mounting accessories that keep them stable, functional, and durable over time. Without the right mounting bases, plates, and brackets, even the most advanced airport lighting system can fail prematurely, leading to operational disruptions, costly maintenance, and potential safety risks.
At AES Airport Solutions, we understand that every component of an airport lighting system plays a crucial role. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of mounting accessories, the differences between shallow and deep bases, proper installation methods, and the latest innovations that improve performance and longevity.
1. Shallow vs. Deep Bases – The Foundation of Stable Lighting
One of the most critical choices in airport lighting installation is selecting the right type of base to support each light fixture, mainly for inset lighting applications, but also for mounting elevated AGL fixtures. There are two main options: shallow bases and deep bases, each suited to different applications and environmental conditions. Let’s explain both:
Shallow Bases – Ideal for Surface Installations
Shallow bases are low-profile enclosures used to mount airport lights on or near the ground’s surface. They are commonly chosen for:
✅ Areas where excavation is not possible or practical.
✅ Locations with solid or rocky terrain.
✅ Applications where a compact, lightweight solution is needed.
Pros:
✔️ Faster and easier to install.
✔️ Require less ground excavation.
✔️ Reduce the risk of water pooling inside the base.
✔️ Allows the maintenance tasks on the primary circuits out of aircraft rollover areas.
Cons:
❌ Less structural depth may make them less stable in extreme conditions.
❌ May require additional stabilization methods in soft or loose soil.
Deep Bases – Designed for Stability and Longevity
Deep bases are installed below ground level, providing a strong foundation for lights in demanding environments. They are commonly used in:
✅ High-traffic areas, such as runways and taxiways.
✅ Locations with loose or unstable soil.
✅ Airports prone to severe weather conditions.
Pros:
✔️ Provide greater stability and durability.
✔️Protect electrical connections from environmental damage.
✔️ Ideal for long-term, high-performance installations.
✔️ Minimizes the secondary cable lengths, i.e. power losses since the isolating transformer is located inside.
Cons:
❌ Requires deeper excavation, increasing installation time.
❌ More expensive compared to shallow bases.
❌ Added complexity on the maintenance tasks of the AGL circuit.
2. Mounting Plates – Ensuring Correct Positioning and Durability
Beyond the base, mounting plates and brackets play a key role in securing airport lights and ensuring they are correctly positioned. These components must withstand high winds, vibrations, and temperature changes while maintaining precise alignment for accurate illumination.
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- Mounting plates act as intermediate support structures between the lighting fixture and its base.
- They help distribute weight evenly and improve impact resistance.
- Typically made from corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum or stainless steel.
3. How to Install Mounting Accessories Correctly
Proper installation of mounting accessories is essential to ensure airport lighting functions reliably and meets safety regulations. Below are the 11 key steps in installing bases and plates.
- Ensure the installation area is level and free of debris.
- Verify ground conditions to determine whether a shallow or deep base is needed.
- Position the base according to ICAO or FAA guidelines and installation tolerances by means of an accurate survey work.
- In the case of installing shallow bases, drill the recess in strict compliance with the manufacturer recommendations and project specifications.
- Secure it in place using concrete anchoring for deep bases or mounting jigs for shallow bases.
- Check for correct alignment and leveling to avoid misalignment issues.
- Verify the shallow base or deep base is at the correct level and does not protrude above the pavement.
- Apply the most suitable grout/sealant for the shallow base fixing depending on the pavement type, environmental conditions and specific conditions and allow the recommended hardening time.
- Connect and install the light fixture or any additional accessory (base plate, adaptor ring, etc.) if applicable.
- Tighten all bolts by applying the torque setting recommended by the manufacturer.
- Perform a final alignment check before activating the lighting system.
4. Installation Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Even with high-quality mounting accessories, improper installation can lead to operational and maintenance issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Misalignment
❌ Problem: Poorly aligned lights can reduce visibility and compromise safety.
✅ Solution: Use high-precision alignment tools like laser or GPS to ensure precision installation.
Weather Damage
❌ Problem: Corrosion and water infiltration can shorten the lifespan of mounting accessories.
✅ Solution: Solution: Choose anti-corrosion materials and ensure proper sealing.
Soil Instability
❌ Problem: Shallow bases may shift in loose or unstable soil.
✅ Solution: Use deep bases or additional stabilization methods such as reinforced concrete.
5. The future of Mounting Accessories
Technology and materials are constantly evolving to improve the performance and longevity of mounting accessories for airport lighting. Here are some of the latest innovations:
✅ Smart Mounting Systems: New mounting plates come with built-in sensors to monitor alignment and vibrations.
✅ Self-Leveling Bases: Automatically adjust to minor ground shifts, reducing maintenance needs.
✅ Anti-Corrosion Coatings: Advanced materials like nano-coatings extend the life of bases and brackets in extreme climates.
✅ Modular Designs: Easier replacement of damaged components without removing the entire system.
As airports modernize their infrastructure, using the latest mounting accessories can reduce costs, enhance reliability, and ensure compliance with international standards.
The role of mounting accessories in airport lighting is often overlooked, yet they are fundamental to ensuring stability, performance, and safety. From choosing the right base to ensuring proper installation and maintenance, investing in high-quality mounting solutions can significantly extend the lifespan of airport lighting systems and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
At AES Airport Solutions, we offer a comprehensive range of mounting accessories designed to withstand the harshest airport environments. Whether it’s runway lighting, taxiway installations, or approach lighting, our solutions ensure efficiency, durability, and compliance.
🚀 Looking for reliable airport lighting mounting accessories? Contact us today!