How Do Infrared Fire Detectors Work?

Infrared fire detectors use light invisible to the human eye to detect fires.

Businesses such as warehouses, shopping malls and industrial plants may use infrared fire detectors to monitor their larger, more open buildings. The specific type of infrared fire detector used will vary based on the type of material in the building.

Features

Most infrared fire detectors consist of a receiver and transmitter that use an infrared light beam. If something obscures the light beam, the infrared fire detector will set off an alarm. Some infrared fire detectors detect embers within two feet and can see within a 90-degree radius from their location.

Types

Some infrared fire detectors use thermal imaging on a view-screen to detect fires, while others use spark or flame detection sensors that detect shorter infrared wavelengths. Black body-heat emission detectors can detect high-energy and low-temperature fires, such as those on coal conveyors.

Considerations

The type of fire affects the effectiveness of an infrared fire detector. Some infrared fire detectors will not detect oil, jet fuel, alcohol or nonhydrocarbon fires, because those fires do not generate enough heat. Weather or altitude can also affect these fire detectors.

References

• Westminster International Ltd: Smoke Detectors Overview
• Notifier Fire Systems: Infrared Fire Detector: High-Speed Glowing-Ember Type
• Patol Limited: Infrared Fire Sensor: Infra-red Fire and Heat Detectors
• Fire Sentry Corporation: Superior FSX™ Wideband IR™ Fire/Flame Detection Technology