Fire alarm systems are systems designed to detect early signs of fire and send warning signals to people so they can evacuate the dangerous area quickly and safely.
Fire alarm systems can generally detect the following:
1. Smoke
- Working principle: When a fire occurs, smoke will float out. The smoke detector will detect small particles from combustion, which is the first sign of a fire.
- Type of device:
- Ionization: Detects charged particles that are caused by the combustion of materials containing carbon.
- Optical: Detects light-scattering particles that are caused by the combustion of materials containing hydrocarbons.
2. Heat- Working principle: When a fire occurs, the temperature in that area will increase. The heat detector will detect the change in temperature.
- Type of device:
- Fixed Temperature: Detects when the temperature reaches the set point.
- Rate of Rise: Detects when the temperature increases rapidly in a short period of time.
3. Flame- Working principle: The flame detector will detect light and heat emitted directly from the flame.
- Types of devices:
- Infrared: Detects infrared radiation emitted by flames
- Ultraviolet: Detects ultraviolet radiation emitted by flames
4. Toxic gases (Gas)- Working principle: When a fire occurs, toxic gases such as carbon monoxide may be released. Gas detectors detect these gases.
- Types of devices:
- Electrochemical: Detects specific gases such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide
- Semiconductor: Detects flammable gases such as methane, butane
- Infrared: Detects multiple gases such as methane, ethanol
- In addition, fire alarm systems may have additional functions such as:
- Alarm signaling: Siren, flashing light, notification to mobile phone
- Fire extinguishing system control: Such as turning on sprinklers, turning off gas valves
- Connection to security systems: Such as CCTV, access control systems
- Factors to consider when choosing a fire alarm system
- Building type: Residential buildings, office buildings, industrial plants
- Building size: The size of the building will affect the number and type of equipment to be installed.
- Building Materials: The materials used in the construction of a building will affect the type of fire that may occur.
- Activities performed in the building: Activities performed in the building, such as using chemicals, cooking
- Budget: The price of a fire alarm system will vary depending on the type and features of the device.
- Maintenance of a fire alarm system
- In order for a fire alarm system to work effectively, it should be inspected and maintained regularly at specified intervals, such as cleaning the sensors, testing the system regularly.
- Summary
A fire alarm system is an important system for preventing and controlling fire incidents. Choosing the right system and maintaining it regularly will help increase the safety of life and property.