Field reliability of airfield lighting arrays demands absolute electrical stability. To mitigate utility-side volatility, airport operators increasingly deploy Ferroresonant Constant Current Regulators (CCRs).
These systems utilize a transformer-based architecture leveraging nonlinear magnetic properties coupled with a resonant circuit to regulate output current precisely. This design ensures the secondary loop remains unaffected by primary input voltage transients. Additionally, the inherent galvanic isolation between the primary and secondary windings attenuates downstream voltage spikes, surges, and electromagnetic interference (EMI), thereby preserving component longevity and maintaining optimal luminous efficacy across the runway circuit.
At Airport Lighting Company, we supply two robust ferroresonant solutions for every type of airport runway lighting configuration.
L-828/L-829 Ferroresonant Constant Current Regulator
The L-828/L-829 Ferroresonant Constant Current Regulator is designed specifically to power airfield lighting systems while providing selectable AC constant current to adjust lighting intensity as operational conditions change. It’s manufactured in full compliance with FAA, ICAO, NAVAIR, UFC, and Annex 14 requirements, making it fully suitable for demanding aviation environments.
This CCR unit delivers precise, stable current without being influenced by rapidly changing electrical loads such as runway guard lights or strobes. Its ferroresonant design produces a high-efficiency, high-power-factor sinusoidal constant current output, achieving efficiencies exceeding 90 percent with a power factor of 0.99.
The unit’s fully digital interface simplifies operation while providing digital readings of output current and voltage for immediate system visibility. The integrated software adds another layer of operational flexibility by allowing technicians to recalibrate the regulator in the field, restore previous calibration settings, adjust brightness steps, and monitor warnings and fault histories without extensive service procedures.
Protection features include high-quality lightning arrestors that safeguard output connections, transient protection that protects the incoming power circuit, and built-in open-circuit, over-current, and over-voltage protection that help extend equipment life while reducing the risk of unexpected failures. Safety is also prioritized with an interlock that automatically disconnects output power whenever the cabinet door is opened.
Additional options such as the integrated S-1 Cutout allow maintenance personnel to physically remove the operating handle once the regulator is shut down, creating safer working conditions during servicing. The optional Insulation Resistance Monitoring System (IRMS) further enhances maintenance planning by providing digital insulation resistance measurements that can be tracked over time, giving airport maintenance teams valuable insight into field-circuit integrity before failures occur.
Combined with quiet operation and stackable construction, the L-828/L-829 CCR provides an efficient, dependable solution for airports seeking long-term performance, simplified maintenance, and improved operational confidence.
L-828/L-829 Ferroresonant Constant Current Regulator SRA Switchgear Regulator Assembly
For installations requiring an integrated switchgear solution, the L-828/L-829 Ferroresonant Constant Current Regulator SRA Switchgear Regulator Assembly combines the proven performance of ferroresonant regulation with a compact switchgear configuration that simplifies installation while supporting broader airport electrical infrastructure.
Designed to fit directly into a switchgear lineup, the regulator cell reduces installation footprint, minimizes downtime during implementation, and simplifies integration with essential airport systems such as an Airport Lighting Control and Monitoring Systems (ALCMS). The assembly supplies either three or five precision output currents for powering airfield series lighting circuits while offering both L-828 and L-829 switchgear cell configurations.
Available in Class 1 or Class 2 configurations for 6.6-amp or 20-amp circuits, the system accommodates a broad range of airport applications while maintaining compliance with current FAA AC 150/5345-10 requirements. Air-cooled construction contributes to operational simplicity while maintaining maximum efficiency and power factor. Dedicated raceways for control and power wiring facilitate easy installation, while flexible bus configurations supporting up to 65kAIC provide additional design versatility for electrical engineers developing new systems or modernizing existing infrastructure.
The unit also features digital True RMS monitoring of output current, output voltage, kilowatts, and kVA, as well as temperature alarms for continuous operational visibility.
A wide range of available power ratings, ranging from 1 kW through 30 kW, allows airports to match regulator capacity to virtually any project requirement. Available control voltages include both 120 VAC and 24 VDC. Redundant communications and circuit breaker door interlocks, along with optional integrated IRMS capability and internal S-1 Cutout, optimize maintenance and safety procedures.
Available in multiple cabinet sizes, this flexible unit is perfect for airport operators seeking dependable current regulation, easier system integration, reduced maintenance disruption, and scalable performance that supports future expansion.
Read More: Enhancing Airport Efficiency And Safety With Airport Lighting Control And Monitoring Systems
Partner With Airport Lighting Company For Your Next Runway Lighting Project
Airport Lighting Company has been a trusted partner to airports worldwide for almost 60 years. We specialize in supplying high-quality, fully compliant products that deliver safety, reliability, and operational continuity, while providing sound recommendations that can optimize costs without compromising efficiency.
When you’re planning your next system upgrade, give our experts a call for high-quality products and exceptional customer service.
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The Airport Lighting Company team is standing by to answer your questions about how our tech-based products can help improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of your runways. Call 315-682-6460 for fast, friendly service you can count on.
