Essential Facts About an Aspirating Smoke Detection Unit
Fire detection and suppression systems play a vital role in ensuring the safety of commercial buildings. Notably, fire detection systems can either be dry or wet. One critical component of a dry fire detection system is the aspirating smoke detection (ASD) unit, which uses a fan (aspirator) to push air and activate operation. This article provides essential facts regarding an aspirating smoke detection unit.
Basic Components of an Aspirating Smoke Detection Unit
Three main components work seamlessly to help in smoke detection. First, there is a sampling pipe network that has various sampling holes for collecting air. The air passes through a pipe network into a detector. Second, a smoke detector is responsible for testing the air for smoke particles. A smoke detector comprises components such as a sensing chamber that detects smoke particles in the sampled air. Besides, a filter eliminates large particles that can cause the sensing chamber to malfunction. Finally, an exhaust pipe removes sampled air from a smoke detector.
Benefits of Aspirating Smoke Detection
An ASD unit has various benefits to fire detection in a commercial building. For example, the active detection mechanism helps in early detection of smoke before any severe damage is caused. Besides, the system is easy to maintain and can be used in a harsh environment such as freezers and coolers.
Regulatory Requirements
The installing of an aspirating smoke detection system in a building should be guided by local regulations and codes, which take precedence over any other parameters proposed by a manufacturer. Check with your local authority on guidelines for installing such systems. For instance, building codes can affect the spacing and size of a pipe network. Always ensure that the design and installation of an aspirating smoke detection system comply with regulations to avoid fines.
Environmental Conditions
The environmental conditions, both external and internal, of a commercial building affect the smoke detection system. It is prudent to identify ambient conditions such as altitude, humidity and temperature, which have a bearing on the functioning of an ASD unit. For example, high pollution levels in a building can increase particulate matter in a building. Therefore, a smoke detection system needs to be appropriately configured to compensate for high particulate matter. Besides, increased airflow in a building can lead to pressure differences in a smoke detection device. Most importantly, proper installation is required for optimal performance of the entire system.
For more information, contact a dry fire detection system installation service.