Introduction: FGD FlameSpec Flame Detectors

The FGD FlameSpec is a range of high-quality, high-performance flame detectors with triple IR (IR3) and UV / IR models suitable for all industrial safety applications. Fire & Gas Detection Technologies Inc (FGD) are based out of California USA where they carry out detector R&D and manufacturing.

The FGD FlameSpec range has been developed by leading industry experts with R&D improvements that exceed other flame detector platforms currently being offered for industrial fire safety applications. These improvements include fully integrated HD camera capabilities, speed of response fire detection improvements, superior false detection algorithms, and detection range improvements. With these improvements, the FlameSpec range has become the benchmark for the next generation of flame detection technology.

The FGD FlameSpec range offers IR3 models for a verify of fuel types including - hydrocarbon fire detection, hydrogen fire detection (also detection of methanol and syngas fires), fire detection in high CO2 environments specific to aircraft hangers and aerospace facilities. The UV/IR model incorporates two detection techniques for a broad range of fuel types including non-hydrocarbon fires, hydrocarbon fires and also hydrogen fires. IR3 models carry a lower lifetime cost benefit, and the UV/IR models carry a lower initial cost benefit.

Here's a breakdown of the range of FlameSpec models available:

All FGD FlameSpec flame detector models have an option for a game changing integrated high definition (HD) video camera feature, never before has the industry developed a camera that is seamlessly integrated into the detector optical face. The camera provides clear video recording of fire events and personnel up to distances of 30m, fire events are stored locally in detector using non-volatile memory, there is also digital and composite video outputs for remote control room monitoring and recording. Video events stored in the detector memory record 1-minute pre-event and 3 minutes post event but can be user configured. During fire evets the border of the video is highlighted in red with fire alarm text to provide clear visual indication that a fire event is occurring.

A flame simulator, FlameSpec model FLS-FSIM, can be purchased for each of flame detector type to function check each flame detector during commissioning and routine maintenance checks. Thereare three specific flame simulators available for the IR3, IR3-H2 and UV-IR FlameSpec flame detector models. The FLS-FSIM can function test detectors from up to 7 meters away from the detector which reduces working at height activities and associated risks.

FGD FlameSpec flame detectors are SIL 2 capable which is achieved by an automatic Built-in-Test (BIT) feature that function tests the detector and checks for optical window cleanliness. If the detector fails the self-test BIT sequence, then the fault alarm is activated, also if a dirty optical surface is detected then a warning alert is activated.

The FGD FlameSpec detector has a temperature-controlled window heater which ensured the optical window is free of condensation and icing which is a benefit in offshore, marine, or other extreme weather environments.

High power consumption can be an issue for flame detectors with internal heater circuits requiring correctly design electrical systems that can handle the high electrical load requirements. The FlameSpec range has an extremely lower power consumption of only 180mA with the window heater running, and 120mA while in standby, which is up to 50% lower than other detectors on the market. The lower total power load on the electrical system can have a positive impact to project costs by reducing cable capacity requirements.

The FGD FlameSpec range comes with the following standard features:

• Ultra-fast detection and superior detection coverage.
• High false alarm immunity.
• Selectable sensitivity levels.
• Optional HD video camera with internal event recording and external video outputs.
• FGD communicator software for detector setup and monitoring.
• Outputs – 0-20mA, fire and fault relays, RS485 – Modbus RTU.
• Built-in-Test (BIT) Automatic and manual self-test of window cleanliness and overall detector operation.
• Window heater.
• Dirty optics alert warning.
• HART 7
• Stainless steel housing and adjustable tilt mount.
• IECEx hazardous area certification.
• SIL 2 capable
• 5-year warranty

The FGD FlameSpec range of flame detectors is suitable of all industrial industry applications in New Zealand where fire hazards are present. Personnel and facility safety can be improved by selecting a FGD FlameSpec flame detector for your next project. The factory has a commitment to carry stock on hand and is ready for fast shipment for any urgent orders.

Equinox Automation has partnered with FGD to offer the FlameSpec flame detectors into the New Zealand market. We can offer engineering, commissioning and technical support services and can provide expert advice for your specific flame detection application requirements.

We offer fire & gas engineering consultancy services using Risk Based Fire & Gas System Design methods incorporating 3D Fire & Gas Mapping software to engineering flame detector count and placement for the specific facility risk profile to provide assurance of a safe and fit for purpose design.

Get in touch by dropping us an email today.
E: contact@equinoxautomation.co.nz