It detects the presence of an open flame and gives off a visual or auditory warning. They are extremely useful in factories which deal with hazardous materials and are slowly starting to become more popular in houses as well. If you are looking to buy a flame detector for your home or business, you should be aware of the various options available to you. This helps you make a more informed decision.
Most flame detectors which are presently available detect flames by using methods like infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy and visual flame imaging. The flame produced by the combustion of specific materials produces waves at specific wavelengths. The analysis of the wavelengths in an area helps the detector distinguish between dangerous fires and false alarms.
Here is a look at the different types of flame detectors.
Here is a look at the different types of flame detectors.
Ultra Violet Detectors
These flame detectors respond to waves in the UV spectrum. They are extremely sensitive and react quickly at short ranges. Since they are sensitive to other sources of waves like lighting, halogen lamps, arc welders, etc. they are not used in outdoor settings. Their sensitivity can also be affected by the presence of thick and soot smoke.
UV/IR Detectors
When an infrared (IR) device is attached to a UV sensor, it creates a detector which is sensitive to both bands of the spectrum. This increases the effectiveness of the detector and works at moderate speeds over a much larger distance. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses as well. However, like with UV detectors, their efficiency is affected by the presence of thick smoke.
When an infrared (IR) device is attached to a UV sensor, it creates a detector which is sensitive to both bands of the spectrum. This increases the effectiveness of the detector and works at moderate speeds over a much larger distance. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses as well. However, like with UV detectors, their efficiency is affected by the presence of thick smoke.
Multi-spectrum infrared detector
The multi-spectrum IR flame detector uses multiple IR regions to help it differentiate between flame regions and non-flame backgrounds. They are well suited to areas which have smoky fires. They are effective within a range of about 200 feet and work at a moderate speed and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They also exhibit a high level of immunity to most hot objects in industrial areas such as welding, sunlight, lightning, etc.
Visual flame detectors
These detectors use charged couple device (CCD) sensors commonly used in closed circuit TV cameras, along with special algorithms to detect flames. The algorithms are able to process a live video feed and analyze the shape and progression of a flame to distinguish between various sources. Unlike other detectors, they are not dependent on the intensity of the fire or the kind of waves it produces. Therefore, they are used in factories to distinguish between an accidental fire and an intentional, process-related fire. These detectors cannot be used to detect flames which are invisible to the eye, such as hydrogen fires. Their efficiency is also greatly affected by smoke.
