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Smoke detectors are an essential component when it comes to fire protection equipment. Two options are photoelectric systems and ionization systems, with each offering benefits for protecting your business. The following is a breakdown.

Photoelectric Systems

The basis for photoelectric systems is light scattering. Essentially, these alarms rely on how the smoke alters the intensity of light passing through the air. They have a photosensitive element and an LED beam set to monitor areas not within the detection range of the photosensitive component.

Smoke particles cross the beam’s path, making the light from the beam deflect into the photosensitive element that will trigger the alarm. Another version of this type of fire protection equipment is light obscuration. A light source is part of the design, and its beam is sent to the element so that when smoke blocks the beam, the photosensitive component responds to the dimming of the light. This then triggers the alarm to alert you to a problem.

fire protection equipmentPhotoelectric detectors respond much more quickly than other alarms, particularly to smoldering blazes that tend to produce more smoke. They are incredibly accurate and reliable, giving anyone inside the building time to get to safety and call for help.

Ionization Systems

In ionization alarms, there is a chamber made by two electrically charged plates and radioactive material that will ionize any air passing between them. If there is combustion present, these particles enter the chamber, and the circuitry inside senses the change in the air molecules, which sets off the alert. While effective for fast-moving flames, they are not as quick to detect slow-moving fires. They are also more likely to produce “nuisance alarms,” false alarms set off by anything from faulty hardware to cooking steam.

There are combination alarms that contain both types of technology, which can protect your facility from both fast and smoldering fires. Products currently available also have other features such as carbon monoxide sensors and heat alarms for added protection.

 

When you need fire protection equipment such as smoke detectors and fire alarm installation, Fire Protection Specialists can help. Businesses across La Crosse and Bangor, WI, trust their highly trained staff to provide the necessary security for their facilities. By installing fire extinguishers and attending fire safety training, your business, employees, and clients will be secure if an emergency strikes. Call (800) 658-9463 with questions or to schedule services. Visit them online for a look at their product resources.

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