World Premiere in Tunnel Lighting with LEDs in CanadaCanada-based Dellux Technologies certainly challenges common standards in the industry with its Intelligent Tunnel Lighting™ (ITL) system, a pioneering technology based on light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Entirely monitored by a remote computer that can diagnose the entire network, unit by unit, through a user-friendly web interface, the new technology allows 40% to 80% energy savings compared to conventional tunnel lighting systems (fluorescent or high pressure sodium lamps) and is virtually maintenance-free for a minimum of 15 years (130,000 hours) during which there are no costly light bulb and ballast replacement nor consequent waste in the environment.The advantages for tunnel operators are countless: predictable cost of operation (no need to worry about future currency fluctuation or energy cost increases); no complex wiring to install or maintain; uniform luminance on the carriageway all the way through the tunnel, which minimises discomfort for drivers; 'all lights on' in case of power failure (no surprise reaction); no re-striking time (critical for tunnel safety); line of guidance at all times (helps drivers stay in lane); minimum lane-closing events (minimises risk of accidents); self-reporting alarm conditions; etc.Conventional lamps require dangerous and complex interventions, particularly during winter. When a lamp blows, it is necessary to detect and locate the failure and act quickly if the uniformity of lighting is at risk. This is generally the case in the central area of tunnels where HPS lamps are spaced out every 10 to 12 m. On the contrary, the ITL™ is a high performance and resistant solution, salt-insensitive, not fearing groundwater percolation (there can be as much as 50 frost-thaw cycles in a season) and able to withstand extreme weather conditions from -40°C to +55°C.The ITL™ solution guarantees a fast return on investment thanks to reduced energy costs, virtually no maintenance and unmatched life span. The average consumption of LED luminaires is 32 W while it is 150 W or more for HPS lamps. Moreover, to help tunnel operators make a decision, Dellux has developed a computer tool customized for each project, that determines quickly the savings obtained with the ITL™ technology versus traditional lighting systems. All these advantages have convinced the City of Montréal to adopt the ITL™ solution for the Atwater tunnel. Opened in 1929, this cut-and-cover dual-tube tunnel (218 m / 222 m) runs underneath canal Lachine, southwest of the city. Each tube carries two 3.65 m-wide lanes and is separated by a service gallery. The complete refurbishment of the tunnel was completed in October. The tunnel was first equipped with fluorescent lighting. In the 1980s, the lighting was renovated and HPS lamps were installed. The ITL™ system is therefore the third generation, advanced lighting system to be installed in the tunnel. The City of Montréal has also started the lighting refurbishment of the 220 m Saint-Marc and du Fort tunnels, which will also be equipped with the ITL™. The Saint-Rémi tunnel will follow. With the ITL™ solution developed by Dellux Technologies, a leap forward for tunnel lighting, tunnel operators and drivers alike in Europe, North and Latin America and Asia can see great prospects in safety improvements. More info from info@dellux.ca and visit www.dellux.ca/led_tunnel_lighting.html 49/04.