Aspirating Smoke Detection
Aspirating smoke detection actively draws air samples from the monitored area through a pipe network and analyses them with high-sensitivity detectors, identifying fires substantially earlier than point-type smoke detectors.
Operating Principle
A central detection unit with a highly sensitive laser or light-scattering sensor continuously draws air samples through a branched pipe network fitted with defined sampling holes. Depending on the application, an appropriate sensitivity class is selected, ranging from very early warning for investigation purposes to discreet detection intended to trigger an extinguishing system directly.
Typical Applications
Aspirating smoke detection is used where point-type detectors are unsuitable for structural or technical reasons: data centres, clean rooms, warehouses with great ceiling height or strong air movement, and cold stores where low temperatures can impair conventional smoke detectors.
Insurance Relevance
Very early fire detection allows intervention before a sprinkler even activates, substantially reducing both property damage and business interruption losses. This depends on the sampling holes and pipe network remaining free of contamination, damage or design flaws introduced after installation, which is specifically checked during surveys.
Standards and codes
- VdS 3416 – Blow-off Devices for Aspirating Smoke Detectors, Requirements and Test Methods