One of the main problems facing fire detection systems in the UK is exposed/external environments is the unpredictable British weather. Almost every detection system (Smoke, Heat and even some Flame Detectors) can suffer from reduced effectiveness in varying weather conditions. Common issues can include smoke stratification, temperature fluctuations and false alarms through direct sunlight on a detector lens.
One exception to this rule is Thermal Fire Detection. This system stays effective almost regardless of the weather conditions. This makes it especially useful for waste management sites with significant operations/storage space in open buildings, or uncovered areas.
How does it work?
All particles produce a certain amount of infra-red radiation, but as the heat rises, so the concentration of radiation increases. The camera identifies this increase in radiation, reading it as a rise in heat levels. The system can then be set to activate the alarm when radiation reaches a certain threshold.
Benefits
Drawbacks
Conclusion
Despite the drawbacks listed above, Blazequel regards thermal fire detection to be the most effective fire protection system for external environments, as it is reliable, effective most weather conditions, and gives you the opportunity to achieve a pre-emptive alarm before a fire can even break out. Careful system design can largely overcome the ‘blind spot’ issue, with wide-lens cameras or a scanning camera system.
For more information on Thermal Fire Detection, please visit our website page ( Thermal Fire Detection ) or contact us on 01234 357357 or sales@blazequel.com.