FIRERAY PRODUCT GUIDE
Page 6
3 Where is an Optical Beam Smoke Detector Used
3.1 Traditional Applications
Optical Beam Smoke Detectors are used to provide “wide area” smoke detection. These are usually
used in situations where it is either impractical, inappropriate or not cost effective (installation, wiring
and maintenance) to use traditional point type detectors. It also enables coverage of a large area, at
minimal cost.
Optical Beam Smoke Detectors are also ideally suited for situations that might include high ceilings,
dusty and dirty environments, or environments that experience temperature extremes
Some examples of common applications:
Atriums
Conference / Exhibition Centres
Shopping Malls
Historic Buildings
Churches / Mosques
Museums
Hangers
Manufacturing Plants
Warehouses
Airports
Stables
Sport / Leisure Centres
3.2 Special Applications
Like point type detectors, Optical Beam Smoke Detectors are inappropriate for outdoor applications.
Outdoor conditions make smoke behaviour impossible to predict. Environmental conditions such as
temperature extremes, rain, snow, sleet, fog and dew can interfere with the proper operation of the
Optical Beam Smoke Detector.
Hazard areas require a flame / explosion proof Optical Beam Smoke Detector, ATEX approved
Zone 1 Environments
Refineries
Mills
Munitions Factories and Stores
Flammable Liquid Stores
Flammable Gas Sores
Flammable Powder Stores
Industrial Plants and Warehouses
Power Stations