Testing fire detection equipment

A manufacturer of professional test and service equipment for fire detection systems, No Climb Products, is behind the revolutionary cross air technology (CAT) developed by researchers at its headquarters in southern England.

Under the control of a microprocessor, blown air is heated by an element just before exiting the duct. The narrow opening focuses the heat into a 'beam' and because the hot beam of air is targeted directly at the sensor, substantial amounts of energy and time are saved.

"Under the control of a microprocessor, blown air is heated by an element just before exiting the duct. The narrow opening focuses the heat into a 'beam' and because the hot beam of air is targeted directly at the sensor, substantial amounts of energy and time are saved."

CAT technology is used in the Solo 461 system that provides a solution for testing heat detectors that is second to none, because it applies the stimulus (heat) to the sensor in the most efficient way possible - horizontally. This reduces testing times dramatically and therefore sets detectors into alarm mode more rapidly. It uses the minimum power necessary, thereby extending battery life. It suits rate of rise, fixed temperature and combination detectors up to 90°C, and minimises the possibility of heat damage to the plastic detector. The Solo 461 incorporates a reference platform and ensures that the beam of heated air is lined up correctly with the sensor, whatever size and shape of detector, while offering the fastest functional test possible in the safest and most controlled way.

Heat is directed straight at the detector sensor and with the Solo access poles can test detectors up to 9 m from ground level. There are no cables or cords and power from the battery is delivered to the unit via the frame. Special safety features ensure that the tester will go into standby after 120 seconds of use for protection and switches off after five minutes on standby for added security. The two batteries and fast charger supplied will work on 100/120/220/240 VAC supply or 12 VDC car battery. To complement the 461, a Solo 200 universal detector removable tool has also been developed and manufactured by the company. The 200 removal tool is suitable for use with most detectors on today's market. Colour coded tri-grips twist into place to create different size combinations. The combinations of the tri-grips enable removal/replacement of different size detectors, ensuring that only one tool is needed.

The Solo has a universal joint ensuring that the tool remains parallel with the ceiling while in use, providing easy extraction and replacement - even on detectors that cannot be accessed from directly underneath.

The Solo 461 cordless heat detector tester was recently purchased by a UK prison.

The prison, HMP Exeter, currently has 140-150 detectors of various makes (including Gent, Thorn and ADT) and sizes, both for heat and smoke detection. Testing is carried out using the Solo heat and smoke detector test equipment at least one day per week.

These detectors are placed all over the establishment in populated and unmanned areas, such as plant rooms and roof spaces, and are tested over a 13 week program. The Solo range is designed for the prison building as there are a number of high ceilings, including the gymnasium and roof voids. The telescopic pole is used at full height to reach the detectors, and yet, proves to still be easy and practical to use.

"We save approximately 2-3 minutes per detector. Normally I would have to wait to check if the detector re-activates, but with the new Solo products I know I can test it and walk away. The new equipment is reliable and efficient," confirmed Craig Howard, Fire Officer at HMP Exeter.

Craig continues, "The time saved and practicality of the Solo equipment is an essential part of the testing process in the establishment. We have education and gymnasium classes running every day, so the need for minimal disruption is vital. The necessity of regular testing in a prison establishment is vital as a lot of the areas are unmanned for the majority of the time. The Solo equipment is a vital aid to this process."