Flame detectors work by sensing specific characteristics of a fire. One type, the Ultra-Violet (UV) flame detector, operates by detecting the UV radiation a flame emits.
Understanding UV Flame Detection
The core principle behind a UV flame detector is its ability to identify UV radiation produced at the point where a fire ignites. This method is effective because almost entirely all fires emit UV radiations.
The Detection Process
When a UV flame detector encounters the UV radiation from a fire, the sensor within the detector responds. Here's a simplified breakdown of the process:
- Sensing UV: The specialized sensor detects the presence of ultra-violet radiation from the flame.
- Generating Signals: Upon detecting UV radiation, the sensor generates a series of electrical pulses.
- Alarm Conversion: Detector electronics receive these pulses and convert them into an alarm output, signalling the presence of a fire.
This process allows UV detectors to quickly identify flames based on their unique UV signature.