where the environment needing detection is not within the UL listing of a normal smoke or heat detector. Aspiration systems can withstand hostile environments, including places that are very hot, very cold, wet or dusty, making them good candidates for engineers who need to install reliable, trouble-free detection.
Sampling pipe network stays out of sight When it’s more beneficial for the system to be hidden,
such as for safety or aesthetic reasons, sampling pipes can be installed in the ceiling or the lighting, typically within capillary tubes. This approach works in correctional facil- ities; aspiration offers a vandal-proof way to detect smok- ing or other conditions without sounding a false alarm. Aspiration technology with hidden piping is also useful
for protecting historical buildings, as well as for the irre- placeable assets inside museums and art galleries. Concealing the sampling pipes retains the authentic look of preservation projects, while offering the highest level of protection. The main pipe network is installed in a ceiling void, and capillary tubes are branched off at regular intervals. These capillary tubes are used to monitor the protected area by projecting through the ceiling covering, while the main pipe network remains hidden. In industrial environments, such as a spray booth or a wastewater treatment facility, some aspiration systems can
be programmed at the highest level of sensitivity to tell the difference between a dirt particle and smoke particulate. Aspiration systems do require more frequent maintenance in dirty environments, however. Local codes and regulations can determine the size and
spacing between the sample holes in a network, making them a critical part of any pipe design. These requirements change, depending on the type of environment monitored. Local codes and standards take precedence over any para- meters suggested for aspiration systems. Aspiration detection systems provide a vast span of detection. Not only is there the flexibility to move the pip- ing for different applications but these systems also have unique capabilities for issuing multiple warning levels. The system can be programmed to send a signal to the building alarm system and to limit automatic initiation of a sprinkler or other type of suppression system if certain extreme, pre-set conditions are met. More than ever, companies want the security of knowing
that their assets and personnel are safe from fire. Integrating an aspiration detection system into the overall fire and life safety system can provide quick detection and solve chal- lenges, such as positioning, aesthetics, security and life safety, in both traditional and unique applications. n
Andy Kuester is product marketing manager for Aspiration Detection, System Sensor.
Circle 18 on Reader Reply Form on page 38 Plumbing Engineer February 2011/Page 31
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