An insight into different fire systems available today and the benefits they bring | The modern approach to fire detection has become an increasingly complex process with more and more choices on offer to both installers and end users. Choices such as conventional or addressable panels can have a significant impact on the level of protection afforded to fire detection applications. In recent times, the fire detection market has steadily evolved to meet the needs and expectations of end users. With the development of architectural design, it has become more difficult for traditional fire detection methods to quickly and accurately detect a fire. For example, open spaces pose a challenge when monitoring the entire interior with existing models and products. The technology has therefore had to adapt to ensure that modern buildings are adequately protected from fire risk.
The market has been searching for a systems-based approach to fire detection, as opposed to components-based, for some time. Rather than relying solely on each component to provide high levels of protection, the entire system monitors the building and offers a total fire detection solution. However, systems have become increasingly complex, with installers now looking for simpler solutions that fulfil detection and programming needs, as well being quick and easy to install, without the need for vast amounts of training.
Modern fire detection systems monitor the air and temperature around each sensor, and this information is then processed by the sensor and transmitted to the control panel. Protocol is the way in which the panel requests and receives this information or data, allowing details of high smoke or heat levels to be reported immediately.
Advanced software and algorithms are then applied to reject sources of false alarms and signal the alarm when the positive criteria have been met, increasing the safety of the whole building. Fire equipment suppliers that are offering both panels and field devices developed by a single manufacturer place emphasis on ensuring system compatibility and increasing the resilience of fire detection systems. As all the elements come from the same manufacturer, this offers a ‘one-stop-shop’ and therefore a simplified purchasing process, potentially allowing customers to make savings due to their increased negotiating power when making one large order with a single supplier.
However, at the same time, customers must give serious consideration not only to the initial benefits these systems may bring, but also what may be the challenges throughout the lifetime of the fire system when tied to a single manufacturer. Thought must be given to the potential for extension or changes to the configuration of the system, and what will happen if the customer becomes dissatisfied with the level of service and maintenance on offer.
The primary concern is the level of choice end users have in the long term. When systems are not compatible with other manufacturers’ elements once installed, the system is then restricted to the product improvements and spare parts developed by the original manufacturer. There may also be restrictions on the number of trained authorised service engineers with the required tools available, thus limiting the choice of service options. Customers can then feel entirely dependent on the original manufacturer for spares, servicing, modification and upgrades.
In the long-term, if an extension or upgrade to a system is needed, the choice is limited to the product range on offer from the original manufacturer, and it cannot be guaranteed that the same models will still be in production. The upgrade or extension could therefore increase costs, or may require the whole system to be replaced, creating further difficulties from what, at first, seems like a simpler, more cost effective option.
When selecting a system from a provider it is essential to ensure that the original manufacturer can provide a proven track record of quality service and a long history of developing competitive technologies, along with an upgrade path for installed systems to use them. Such systems are a perfectly valid option providing the service provided is to the customer’s satisfaction; it only presents a problem if high standards are not met.
Following two years of research and development, Tyco Fire Protection Products has launched its FireClass portfolio, the revolutionary new commercial fire detection system. The range is fully compliant to EN54 for fire detection and fire alarm systems, as well as a number of other major European standards.
In the face of changing regulations, and a myriad of options available, it is becoming increasingly difficult for both installers and end users to choose the correct fire detection system for their needs. The FireClass ‘out-of-box’ system offers the highest standards of fire detection, along with high levels of flexibility. With both conventional and addressable options, there is a solution for every application, while also offering ease of installation.
Geoff Fiala
Director, product management, fire detection
APAC Tyco Fire Protection Products