The basis of the fire alarm is a special sensor. It is this small device that can detect even slight temperature deviations, as well as the presence of fire and smoke. But due to the fact that it can only respond to one factor, not in every case it can fix a fire at its very initial stage. It is for this reason that an autonomous fire smoke detector is used in alarm systems. Let's see what is the difference, compared with traditional devices, how to choose the right item.
What it is?
What is the design feature of these devices? In one small mechanism, three elements are combined. So, these are optical smoke detectors, audible warning devices, as well as batteries. The latter provide autonomous operation of the device.
The sensor is a measuring optical camera, which excludes access to the light stream, but at the same time passes air well. It has a built-in infrared emitter, as well as a receiver. The elements are arranged relative to each other so that the light hits the receiver when it is reflected from solid smoke particles. This leads to a small drawback of a self-contained smoke detector - an element can be triggered if dust, insects or steam get into the camera.
The sound announcer is an integral part of the device. This is nothing more than an ordinary siren. It usually starts when the smoke detector is triggered. At the same time, she emits quite piercing sound signals. The notification is made by means of a piezo emitter.
Since the detector is an
electronic device, for its functioning electric energy is absolutely necessary. A 9-volt battery is used here as an autonomous energy source. It is enough for about a year of operation of the device.
Operating principle
What determines the operation of a smoke detector? During the fire, small aerosol particles are released into the air, which can be detected by an autonomous fire smoke detector. Various factors can affect the operation of the device. This is the size of the particles, their speed of movement, the chemical composition and structure of the air, the density, and also the saturation of the air with smoke.
The device is completely autonomous and independent. But there are models that can be combined into a common signaling network at the facility. The signal can be output to a separate sound or light siren. The power will be autonomous, since the device has a battery. The principle of operation is to fix the optical particles of solid particles that are in the smoke, and the subsequent supply of alarm signals.
Advantages and disadvantages
Autonomous fire smoke detectors of this type are characterized by frequent false alarms. Therefore, at such moments, the battery is removed from them. But she is often forgotten to insert back. This is a significant drawback. But there is an advantage - the sound signal that is triggered when the sensor is triggered can wake even a person who is soundly asleep.
Manufacturers
Everyone who has decided to install a fire optoelectronic self-contained smoke detector is faced with the problem of choice. Fire safety experts conducted research and testing of devices from different companies and made certain conclusions - they are disappointing. Experts assure that most of the devices that are currently on the market do not comply not only with the requirements of regulatory documents, but even with the parameters that the manufacturer claims.
If we take into account the results of these tests and studies, then among the models produced by domestic manufacturers, we can clearly see the lag in terms of manufacturability from the goods of European brands producing similar products. The choice of a self-contained smoke detector should be entrusted to a professional who has certain experience and has serious knowledge in this field.
Based on international experience, the most promising are devices with a non-replaceable energy source, which have a lifespan of 10 years or more. These devices are manufactured by most European manufacturers. We can distinguish the HDV 3000 OSF model, but its cost even now is very high.
Domestic manufacturers
Among the Russian manufacturers that produce products that meet the requirements, we can distinguish the companies System Engineering, Magistral, and Rubezh. These companies have been manufacturing these products for over twenty years. Fire and security alarms - this is the main direction of work of these manufacturers.
Among the popular models, one can single out IP 212-52SI (autonomous smoke detector). The reviews of this device indicate that the device has a high sensitivity, is able to work for 10 years. Users say that the device practically does not give false signals.
The main parameters when choosing
Strict requirements are imposed on fire alarms. This equipment should provide high security. But the list of these requirements depends not only on the detector itself and its model, but also on the company that manufactured it. According to the reviews, the stand-alone fire smoke detector IP 212-50M2 differs from the Rubezh brand in high quality.
Among the main selection criteria, it is possible to single out the operation of the device offline for a year or more. The device should have a light indicator that signals that the device is working properly. The siren should be given no earlier than 4 minutes after detecting a fire. The temperature range at which the device can function normally should be from -10 to +50 degrees. The device must have a special test button to test its response to smoke. There should also be a signal corresponding to a dead battery.
Model Overview
The self-contained fire smoke detector IP-212 is one of the models manufactured by domestic manufacturers. As for the principle of operation, this is an optoelectronic device. This device does not have any features. Reviews say that the sensor is able to respond to smoke that occurs even with a small concentration. It is used in various buildings and enclosed spaces. The element does not respond to changes in humidity, open flames, or temperature fluctuations. This must be taken into account when choosing.
The basis of the device is a microcontroller. It is he who processes the data from the external environment. The device is quite accurate, despite being budgetary. But that makes it accessible to many. You can also purchase a model of a fire smoke detector IP 212-142. The device has similar characteristics. The differences are that the device has several modes of operation.
Finally
As you can see, there are many such equipment, but not everyone can be trusted. Technical characteristics of many devices are similar to each other. Responses of owners claim that there are practically no false positives. And the devices are actually declared by the manufacturer for a period of 10 years or more. Popular tests show that most of the models on the market react to smoke in time.