Optical beam smoke detectors, commonly known as fire beams, offer an effective and economical solution for detecting smoke in large, open-plan commercial and industrial spaces within the UK. Unlike standard point detectors, a fire beam uses a projected beam of infrared light between a transmitter and a receiver (or reflector). If smoke enters the beam path and obscures the light signal, it triggers the fire alarm system. This technology is particularly well-suited for environments where traditional smoke detection methods may be impractical or inefficient, such as buildings with high ceilings.
Key Benefits
Utilising optical beam smoke detectors provides several key advantages:
- Cost-Effective Large Area Coverage: A single beam detector can protect a large area (up to 1500-1800m² according to some sources), potentially replacing numerous point detectors, leading to significant savings in equipment and installation costs.
- Ideal for High Ceilings: Beams are specifically designed for use in spaces with high ceilings (up to 25m or even 40m, depending on sensitivity), where smoke stratification might prevent smoke from reaching point detectors effectively.
- Suitable for Challenging Environments: They perform well in dusty or dirty environments like warehouses, and models with features like anti-condensation heaters are available for areas with changing temperatures and humidity.
- Reduced False Alarms: Modern beams incorporate advanced technology, such as automatic alignment compensation for building movement and light cancellation features to minimise false alarms caused by environmental factors.
- Simplified Maintenance: Features like low-level controllers allow testing and maintenance to be performed from ground level, avoiding the need for high-level access equipment. Self-aligning models further reduce maintenance needs.
Our Installation Process
We ensure your optical beam smoke detection system is correctly installed and commissioned for reliable performance, following UK standards:
- Site Assessment: We evaluate your premises to determine the suitability of beam detection, considering factors like area size, ceiling height, potential obstructions, environmental conditions (dust, humidity, vibration), and the type of fire risk.
- System Design: We design the optimal layout, selecting the appropriate type of beam detector (e.g., reflective, end-to-end) and quantity required to provide compliant coverage according to BS 5839-1 guidelines. This includes determining the correct mounting positions, typically high on walls or below the ceiling structure.
- Mounting & Alignment: Our engineers securely mount the transmitter, receiver, and reflector units onto stable structural elements, ensuring they are positioned correctly relative to the ceiling and potential obstructions. Precise alignment, either manually or using auto-alignment features, is critical for correct operation.
- Wiring & Integration: The detectors are wired back to the fire alarm control panel according to manufacturer instructions and electrical standards.
- Commissioning & Testing: We perform thorough commissioning tests to verify correct alignment, signal strength, and alarm activation thresholds, ensuring the system functions as intended and meets all regulatory requirements. Handover includes demonstrating the system’s operation.
- Maintenance: We provide ongoing maintenance services as required by standards to ensure the continued reliability of the system.
Industries We Serve
Optical beam smoke detectors are an ideal fire detection solution for a wide variety of large-volume spaces and challenging environments, including:
- Warehouses and Distribution Centres
- Aircraft Hangars
- Atriums (in Hotels, Shopping Centres, Offices)
- Manufacturing Facilities & Industrial Units
- Heritage Buildings & Museums
- Sports Halls & Leisure Centres
- Theatres & Auditoriums
- Airports
- Areas with potentially explosive atmospheres (using specialised ATEX-certified models)
Contact Us
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