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FIRE SERVICE AND GENERAL FIRE SAFETY TOPICS => Technical Advice => Topic started by: andy@swift on March 13, 2007, 10:43:45 PM

Title: testing of beam detectors
Post by: andy@swift on March 13, 2007, 10:43:45 PM
hi,

for reference, whats the correct way for testing beam detection on routine maintenance visits, thanks andy
Title: testing of beam detectors
Post by: Wiz on March 14, 2007, 08:37:36 AM
Most infra red beam automatic smoke detectors are supplied with a light obscuration filter graded for different levels that can be used for commissioning and testing. This can be used, at the various levels, to obstruct the path of the light can be used to check the correct function of fault and fire conditions.
Although it seems obvious, the requirement when testing any piece of equipment, is just to find ways of testing all the functions and facilities that the piece of equipment is deemed to require in it's particular application and normal operation!
Title: testing of beam detectors
Post by: monkeh on March 14, 2007, 08:51:56 PM
the main problem with testing beam detectors is that by their design, they're usually installed to cover vast areas, normally warehouses and roof voids in my experience, so the main difficulty is actually getting to them.  i've seen me on my 3 tier ladders with my filter taped to my fully extended solo pole swaying like a drunk.  and the last thing you want to do is touch the transmitter or reciever.  knock it out of allignment and you face a hell of a job lining some of them up again
Title: testing of beam detectors
Post by: Graeme on March 14, 2007, 10:13:52 PM
That's why the new self aligning ones with a low level controller with self test mode are a engineers best friend.
Title: testing of beam detectors
Post by: monkeh on March 14, 2007, 10:38:39 PM
Quote from: Graeme
That's why the new self aligning ones with a low level controller with self test mode are a engineers best friend.
far too high tech and engineer helping for our place :D
Title: testing of beam detectors
Post by: David Rooney on March 15, 2007, 11:03:49 PM
Quote from: Wiz
Most infra red beam automatic smoke detectors are supplied with a light obscuration filter graded for different levels that can be used for commissioning and testing. This can be used, at the various levels, to obstruct the path of the light can be used to check the correct function of fault and fire conditions.
Although it seems obvious, the requirement when testing any piece of equipment, is just to find ways of testing all the functions and facilities that the piece of equipment is deemed to require in it's particular application and normal operation!
Bubble wraps no good then ......!?