TYPES OF DETECTION DEVICES

It is important to have an adequate number of detectors to fully cover the areas requiring protection. Additionally the type of detection must be matched to the environment and the potential fire hazards likely to be present.

Optical Smoke Detectors
For slow burning smouldering fires.

• Escape Routes and corridors
• Wood or cardboard stores

Do not use in steamy, dusty or smokey areas such as kitchens, bathrooms etc.


Ionisation Smoke Detectors
For fast burning, high energy fires.

• Petrochemical or solvent stores
• Electrical switch rooms

A mixture of optical and ionisation sensors can be used to ensure coverage in areas of high value, like computer rooms.


Heat Detectors
Heat detectors are used when the environment is subject to constant levels of smoke or dirt.

• Loading bays
• Boiler rooms
• Kitchens and laundries
• Plant rooms

Heat Detector Identification Coding

Fixed Temperature Heat Detector
For protection of property, particularly where high ambient temperatures exist, or in areas where sudden changes in temperature may occur.

• Near large windows
• Heat producing processes

Rate of Rise Detector
Has fixed temp operation, but also looks for sudden rises in temperature give faster reaction than standard fixed temp detector.

Areas deemed unsuitable for smoke detection due to dust or other contamination.

Beam Detectors
Beam detection may provide more cost effective solutions to point detection over long distances, especially when the buildings are relatively tall, or where excessive height excludes the use of point detection.

• Large production facilities
• Warehouses
• Ceiling voids, above false ceilings
• Shopping malls
• Aircraft hangers

Duct Detector
The duct detector unit is designed to detect unit is designed to detect smoke in air conditioning systems. It is fitted to the outside of the duct and has probes that protrude inside the duct to monitor the air.