What are vapor-proof or vapor-tight lights?
Vapor-proof or vapor-tight lights are durable and weather-resistant lighting fixtures. These lights' "vapor tight" aspect refers to their ability to prevent moisture and other particles from entering the fixture. Typically these lights have gasket-sealed corrosion-resistant housings, often polycarbonate or aluminum. The sealed housings enclose the internal components to resist water, moisture, and environmental contaminants such as dust, dirt, and debris, which could cause damage and decrease the light's lifespan.
Vapor-proof light fixtures provide reliable and safe illumination, making them essential in environments where moisture and other contaminants can pose a risk to equipment and personnel.
You will commonly find these in outdoor environments with high exposure to dampness and humidity or in areas where moisture, dust, and debris are present such as parking garages, warehouses, and industrial facilities. LED vapor-proof light fixtures are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional fluorescent vapor-tight lights reducing maintenance costs over time. Additionally, LED vapor-tight lights are more environmentally friendly, as they do not contain hazardous materials like mercury.
Where are vapor lights used?
You will find LED vapor-tight lights where moisture, dust, and debris are present. These lights are standard in commercial and industrial settings, such as parking garages, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and food processing plants. The sealed construction makes them well-suited to outdoor environments, such as parking lots, tunnels, and bridges.
Here are some specific applications for LED vapor-tight lights:
Parking Garages
Vapor-proof LED lights can provide bright and uniform lighting in parking garages, making it easier for drivers to see and navigate the area.
Warehouses
These lights can provide high-quality illumination in large warehouse spaces, making it easier for workers to see and locate items on shelves.
Transit Stations
These lights are often used in bus and train stations, providing bright and efficient lighting in covered areas where moisture and dust can accumulate.
Outdoor walkways and bridges
Vapor-tight LED lights provide bright and uniform lighting along outdoor walkways and bridges, improving visibility and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Is IP65 vapor-tight?
While manufacturers design IP65-rated LED lights to be water-resistant, they are not necessarily vapor-tight.
A vapor-tight light prevents moisture from penetrating the fixture, which is vital in environments where dampness can cause damage to electrical equipment or pose safety hazards.
IP65 refers to a rating that indicates the degree of protection provided by an electrical enclosure against solid particles and water ingress. Specifically, IP65 means that the fixture is dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction. Therefore, whether or not an IP65 LED light is vapor-tight would depend on its specific design and intended use. Some IP65 LED lights may also be vapor tight, but it's not guaranteed. Check the product specifications to determine if your LED light is a vapor-proof light fixture.
What is vapor tight vs. watertight?
Vapor Tight
Vapor-tight and watertight LED lighting are lighting fixtures designed for use in environments where moisture, dust, or other particles may be present. However, each type protects against different types of ingress.
Vapor-tight LED lighting fixtures have a sealed housing and gasketed lens to prevent moisture and dust ingress. You'll find vapor-tight LED lights in food processing facilities, swimming pools, car washes, and other areas with exposure to water or steam.
Watertight
Watertight LED lighting fixtures, on the other hand, have a sealed housing and lens that prevents the ingress of water. They are common in outdoor environments like parking lots, sports fields, and other areas where the light has exposure to rain, snow, or other precipitation.
Both vapor-tight and watertight LED lighting fixtures provide a high level of protection and have various applications where protection against moisture, dust, or water is required.
Are vapor-tight lights explosion-proof?
While some vapor-tight lights may have explosion-proof ratings or certifications, not all meet the rigorous safety standards for use in hazardous locations. Vapor-tight lights protect the LED light source and its electrical components from water and moisture. While commonly found in hazardous environments, such as those with flammable gases or dust, they are not necessarily explosion-proof. Explosion-proof lights prevent sparks, arcs, and hot surfaces from igniting combustible gases, vapors, or dust found in the environment. LED vapor-tight lights can contain a possible explosion within the fixture thanks to heavy-duty materials and safety features such as seals, gaskets, and unique glass or metal housings.
Always check the specifications and certificates of the light fixture to ensure it meets the safety requirements for the specific hazards of the installation environment. Shop our selection of LED Explosion Proof Lights here.
