A new range of floodlights which combine high optical performance, with effective light pollution control is being marketed by leading UK external lighting specialist Abacus Lighting.

''Known as the Challenger series, they will enhance the company's highly successful AM560 and AM570 range of floodlights,'' says company spokesperson Jade Clark. ''The range consists of a series of high-performance floodlights that present a cost-effective solution to the lighting needs of sports grounds and other large areas.''

Detailing their features, Clark continues: ''Challenger 1 has been designed for outdoor sports grounds, smaller sports stadia and other outdoor applications. This is a high-performance floodlight comprising two beam types: narrow and medium, which ensures lighting efficiency. It incorporates the Abacus Light Control System which uses a double asymmetric reflector system, an internal glare baffle and an optional cowl accessory to effectively control light pollution.

''The inclusion of a sight aiming feature together with an aiming protractor ensures the optimum targeting of individual floodlights to achieve desired lighting levels.

''Challenger 3 features a symmetric reflector system for use in sports stadia with corner mast systems. Compactly designed and also incorporating an anti-glare baffle, it provides precision optical control and offers significant cost savings for both the supply and installation of floodlights.

''Gun sight fixings are incorporated into Challenger 3, ensuring that the gun sight is easily fixed on site. Both Challenger 1 and 3 are constructed from high-pressure die-cast aluminium, finished in a hard-wearing durable grey powder polyester coating that blends with the daytime sky. Both types use double-ended lamps of either 1,000 W or 2,000 W which offer optimum optical control and add greater stability, leading to less vibration and less damage in high winds.

''Each type in the Challenger series features a simple lamp changing system, from the rear, for ease of maintenance. Challenger floodlights use silicone rubber gaskets which provide strong jetproof and dustproof protection (IP65), which ensures lower maintenance costs and longer product life. They also use universal mounting stirrups which allow for above and below mounting of floodlights without obstructing the light beams which provides greater efficiency and flexibility. With low windage area and a low weight both these floodlights can be used with smaller masts and foundations. Clear cost savings can therefore be made in both the supply and installation of the two floodlights.''

"The new Challenger series presents an intelligent and cost-effective solution for sport and large area lighting schemes,'' comments Abacus sales and marketing director Chris Yates. "Excellent control of light pollution through the Abacus Light Control System combined with high optical performance defines a product that is testament to the Abacus design philosophy."

Abacus has also released a new brochure with details of the Challenger floodlights, covering complete specifications, including component materials and finishes.