Fibre optic Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) is transforming the way we use fire detection technologies across industrial worksites.
With unrivalled efficiency, DTS technology provides the tailored precision required to address common fire risks on-site. Plus, this is all achievable without added costs, maintenance, or downtime.
Traditional fire detection systems are often based on time-worn stand-alone solutions. These systems are built to send alarms and activate fire suppression systems as a reactive afterthought once a fire has started.
As Australian-based partners of AP Sensing, a global fibre optical sensing technology company, we offer comprehensive and risk-free DTS solutions.
Fibre optic solutions aim to eliminate and detect an emerging fire event before there is damage to equipment, production loss, risks to life or loss of operating licences.
Identifying abnormal heat conditions early can make all the difference. Plus, we understand that every industry’s needs and safety risks differ.
Our experts work closely with you to tailor a solution that meets your site and safety needs.
The ability to remotely monitor fires is made possible with fibre optics, enabling timely detection and response to potential fire hazards. This proactive approach significantly minimises the risk of damage to valuable assets and helps prevent ongoing issues on-site, fostering a safer and more secure environment.
These innovative fire detection technologies are facilitated through a 4mm stainless steel-reinforced fibre optic cable.
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The fibre optic cable operates as a sensor. It performs temperature measurements and provides the exact location of any heat build-up.
There are two types of sensor cables available for fire detection and temperature monitoring. Each has two fibre cores covered by polyacrylate. The outer cable sheath is made of a polyethylene-based compound.
The main characteristics of both cables are the small bending radius for easier installation and lightweight construction.
The distributed temperature sensing (DTS) detector uses a safe, low-power laser (class 1M) to generate measurement pulses in a fire-resistant and non-corrosive fibre-optic cable.
It analyses the frequency spectrum of the returning signal using Raman scattering (a quantum physics effect) and patented Optical Reflectometry Code Correlation techniques. This is the same technology used for modern communication using fibre optics.
The detector provides temperature profiles along the entire sensor cable, with data polling every 10 seconds and measurement points every 0.5 metres.
The unit operates without needing recalibration and is certified for use in hazardous environments with explosive gases, vapours, or dust.
Fibre optic based linear heat detection provides a predictive and economic approach to minimise fire risks.
This is achieved with features and benefits that include:
Measure heat precisely anywhere with our 4mm diameter stainless steel reinforced flexible cable. No more guesswork is required to identify where the fire risk is highest. Our fire detection technologies detect potential hotspots through surface conduction, air convection and infrared radiation flame detection. It’s like having thousands of temperature sensors in the field.
Our distributed temperature sensing system’s design and installation costs are minimal. Even for last-minute changes. If you’re unsure about the exact locations of a fire risk, we can design the cable layout to suit your site layout and environment.
No need for additional field devices, power, signal, or network cables. Our cable is the sensor.
Plus, no calibration is needed after commissioning, no spare parts are required, and the fibre cable is rated for a 40-year life.
Our fire detection system holds certifications from Vds, FMGlobal, UL, and EN54-22, leading to lower insurance premiums. With the use of an extremely low-power laser, it has top hazardous area ratings.
It’s resistant to electromagnetic interference, complying with EMI standards.
The system is highly reliable, with a SIL2 rating for safety and compliance with AS61508/61511. SIL2 identifies a very high level of reliability of the DTS unit detecting an alarm. This reliability is higher than most fire alarm panels themselves.
Additionally, it incorporates VxWorks for real-time operating system cybersecurity.
Our fibre optic detection system boasts an impressive coverage range, spanning from 1 to 70 km.
This extensive reach ensures comprehensive protection for large-scale operations, remote installations, and expansive industrial settings.
We’ve worked across a range of industries. This experience has equipped us with the knowledge to tailor our system to work with the unique needs of your site.
Detect abnormal heat build-up before fire ignition. Our fibre optic cable identifies overheating equipment or potential product fires and triggers an alarm at any specified temperature based on equipment or product type.
This early warning system prevents unplanned downtime and associated production costs. The laser-based temperature measurement ensures high accuracy in detecting even the slightest temperature changes.
Remote and centralised monitoring of a fire event allows for; the safe evacuation of people, coordinated fire-fighting and activation of automatic suppression systems.
Firefighting crews are also equipped with the knowledge of the exact location of a fire, within 0.5 metres. In the event of a fire, they have more information than a traditional zone alarm to address the risk.
During a fire event, the fibre cable will continue sending heat locations, where the fire is moving to, and its temperature and size information. The fibre cable is rated to operate for up to two hours at 750° C.
To accurately report to the regulatory authorities the circumstances of a fire, the system provides a full history log before, during and after a fire event. This allows your company to have comprehensive data and draw relevant insights to prevent future fire incidents.
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Advanced Photonics Australia brings practical engineering expertise and innovative technology to the forefront. Harnessing cutting-edge photonics technology, we tackle each unique challenge head-on using Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS).
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