Signaline is pleased to announce the edition of the FT-EOL termination box to our Signaline FT range. This new end of line termination box is designed with the installer and ongoing maintenance in mind.
Not just another box!
The Signaline FT-EOL is designed specifically to be used with our range of Signaline FT linear heat detection cables.
Linear heat detection is a method used to detect heat or fire along a linear path, such as in car parks, solar panels, tunnels or conveyor belts. It works by using a heat-sensitive cable that detects changes in temperature. When the cable reaches a certain temperature, it triggers an alarm or activates a fire suppression system.
In many applications the Linear Heat Detection is installed in difficult to reach spaces, such as ceiling voids or along conveyors, or in areas where regular live heat testing can be difficult due to operational constraints.
The new Signaline FT-EOL resolves this issue by incorporating into the termination box both alarm and fault test switches. Thus ensuring ongoing maintenance is a simple – just push the button!
Why have one when you can have two!
The Signaline FT-EOL is literally twice as good as it looks and it already looks pretty goood!
Inside the IP66 enclosure you will find not one but two terminations for Signaline FT cable.
Meaning that two zones of cable can be terminated in the same place. This reduces product site costs, decrease installation time and decreases ongoing maintenance and testing time but accessing two zones in a single location
The Signaline FT-EOL has been designed to be compatible with the LocatorPlus and Signaline FT range of linear heat detection cables.
Check out all the product features here or click here to download the datasheet.
Case studies have shown the success of linear heat detection in commercial PV systems.
Photovoltaic (PV) systems, also known as solar PV panels, have gained popularity as a renewable energy source. These systems convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials. While PV systems offer numerous benefits, it is crucial to consider fire safety measures to prevent potential hazards.
There is a need to rethink PV systems as generators. Building standards make allowance for fire detection and safety if your building incorporates a gas or diesel generator. Therefore, we need to consider the same risk for PV systems as these too are large generators of power.
Signaline Linear Heat Detection is a specialized technology that plays a vital role in PV fire safety.
It is designed to detect and provide early warning of fire hazards in PV installations. Unlike conventional fire alarm systems, which rely on spot detectors, linear heat detection can sense temperature changes along its entire length.
This blog aims to simplify PV fire safety by providing an overview of linear heat detection and its implementation in PV systems. We will explore the common causes of PV system fires, the role of environmental factors, and the benefits of using linear heat detection technology.
Additionally, we will delve into the planning, design, and installation considerations for implementing linear heat detection in PV installations. Compliance and standards for PV fire safety will also be discussed, along with case studies highlighting the success of linear heat detection in preventing PV system fires.
By understanding the importance of linear heat detection and its application in PV systems, we can enhance fire safety measures and ensure the reliable and efficient operation of solar PV panels.
Understanding PV Fire Risks
PV panels and associated electrical equipment pose specific fire risks that need to be addressed for proper fire safety in PV installations. PV systems generate electrical power from sunlight through the use of solar panels, which produce direct current (DC) electricity.
This DC power needs to be converted to alternating current (AC) for use in buildings or the grid.
However, the conversion process and the presence of electrical components increase the risk of fire. Faulty wiring, overheating inverters, and inadequate surge protection can lead to electrical malfunctions and potential fire hazards.
It is essential to implement suitable fire safety measures to mitigate these risks and protect both the PV system and the surrounding environment.
The Role of Environmental Factors in PV Fire Safety
Environmental factors play a significant role in PV fire safety.
Direct sunlight, which is necessary for solar energy production, can also contribute to the risk of fires in PV systems. The heat generated by the sunlight can increase the temperature of electrical components, potentially leading to malfunctions and fires.
Other environmental factors, such as the presence of flammable materials or the accumulation of dust and debris on the panels, can further enhance the fire risk. It is essential to consider these environmental factors when designing and implementing fire safety measures in PV installations.
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Footage of large scale solar array on fire at Lidl distribution centre in Peterborough, UK (Fire took place Feb 2024 – https://rb.gy/hhpg0v)
Signaline Linear heat detection, with its ability to detect heat along the entire length of a cable, is a reliable solution for mitigating the impact of these environmental factors on PV fire safety.
Introduction to Linear Heat Detection in PV Systems
Signaline Linear heat detection is a specialized technology used to detect heat or sudden increases in temperature along a cable’s entire length. In the context of PV systems, linear heat detection plays a crucial role in detecting and preventing fires.
Unlike conventional fire alarm systems, which rely on individual spot detectors, linear heat detection provides continuous monitoring and early warning capabilities. This technology operates based on a fixed temperature threshold, triggering an alarm when the specified temperature is reached.
By promptly detecting and alerting to potential fire hazards, linear heat detection ensures prompt response and minimizes the risk of damage in PV systems.
How Linear Heat Detection Works
Linear heat detection works by utilizing a specialized cable that is sensitive to changes in temperature. When the temperature in the vicinity of the cable exceeds a specified threshold, the cable undergoes a change in its electrical characteristics. This change triggers an alarm signal, indicating the presence of a potential fire.
The alarm signal is typically connected to a fire control panel or other monitoring systems, enabling prompt response and necessary actions. By continuously monitoring the temperature along its entire length, linear heat detection offers reliable and early detection of potential fire hazards in PV systems.
Benefits of Using Linear Heat Detection for PV Systems
Using linear heat detection in PV systems offers several advantages in terms of fire safety and overall system reliability. Some of the key benefits include:
Early detection: Linear heat detection provides continuous monitoring and early detection of potential fire hazards, enabling swift response and minimizing the risk of damage.
Reliability: Linear heat detection cables are highly reliable and can withstand harsh environmental conditions, ensuring long-term performance and minimal false alarms.
Efficiency: By detecting heat along the entire length of the cable, linear heat detection minimizes the risk of undetected fires and allows for targeted fire suppression actions.
Environmental suitability: Signaline has often been used for environmentally harsh conditions. PV systems need to withstand continuous UV, seasonal temperature variations and possible debris damage. Signaline is highly resilient to all these factors.
Planning and Design Considerations
Signaline FT-105-R was used to protect large solar array in Turkey
When planning and designing a linear heat detection system for PV installations, several considerations need to be taken into account. These include:
Selecting suitable cable type: Choosing the appropriate linear heat detection cable based on the installation environment and the specific requirements of the PV system. Our recommendation is that the cable installed should have an alarm temperature 20°C above maximum ambient temperature.
Ensuring proper cable routing: Properly routing the linear heat detection cable to cover the targeted areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage and effective detection. It is recommended to run a line of Signaline Linear heat detection across the back of every run of panels.
Integration with fire alarm systems: Coordinating the linear heat detection system with the overall fire alarm system to enable centralized monitoring, alerts, and response capabilities. Thankfully Signaline is compatible with all types of commercial fire detection systems and can conform to UL, FM and EN standards.
Compliance and Standards for PV Fire Safety
At time of writing, the UK, EU or US are yet to establish governing regulations for fire detection specifically within PV Systems.
However, leading global insurance firms have been conducting their own research and have concluded that Linear Heat Detection is a highly suitable technology to detect over heating PV systems.
‘. . . installations where combustible construction is unavoidable, consider the installation of FM Approved, linear heat detection on top of the roof cover and below the PV modules. One line of heat detection can be placed within each sun-facing or east-west facing row of PV panels’
As with FM their research clearly pointed towards Linear Heat Detection as one of the view suitable technologies to provide efficient fire and cost-effective fire detection for roof top PV Systems.
These independent results point clearly towards Linear Heat Detection to be the correct choice for increased fire safety standards within roof mounted PV systems.
Conclusion
Signaline Linear heat detection is a crucial component in enhancing PV fire safety. By understanding the risks associated with PV systems, implementing linear heat detection technology, and adhering to compliance standards, you can significantly reduce the chances of fire incidents.
With proper planning, design, and installation practices, linear heat detection offers a reliable solution for early fire detection in PV installations. These technologies play a vital role in safeguarding PV systems, contributing to overall fire prevention success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Linear Heat Detection Ideal for PV Systems?
Linear heat detection is ideal for PV systems due to its reliability and efficiency in detecting potential fire hazards. By continuously monitoring the temperature along the entire length of the cable, linear heat detection provides early warning capabilities and ensures prompt response, minimizing the risk of damage or loss.
How Often Should Linear Heat Detection Systems Be Tested?
The frequency of testing linear heat detection systems depends on various factors, including industry standards and specific safety requirements. It is recommended to follow manufacturer guidelines and comply with relevant safety regulations to ensure the proper functioning and reliability of the system. Regular testing and maintenance help ensure the continuous effectiveness of linear heat detection in PV systems.
The brochure has everything you need for a fire or water detection system from analogue and digital cable, through to control panels and accessory clips.
You’ll find all the details for the two fire detection options in our Signaline HEAT range: the VdS approved Signaline HD analogue system and the UL/FM approved Signaline FT fixed temperature cables.
The detection cables detect heat anywhere along their length and are compatible with both addressable and conventional systems.
Signaline HEAT is ideal for a wide range of applications including car parks, tunnels, cable trays, conveyors and warehousing. Signaline HEAT can also be used in intrinsically safe areas making it suitable for hazardous applications as well.
For water detection, look no further than Signaline WATER which offers a low cost and effective way to detect water ingress and prevent flooding.
The brochure includes details about the Signaline WATER WDM-KM module which can monitor up to 1,000m of Signaline WATER Water Leak Detector and is easily interfaced with BMS and other control systems.
Our linear detectors are 100% manufactured in the UK and they have a wide range of third party approvals from both international organisations and local bodies – a testament to the high quality of the products.
The Signaline HD SKM-95 and SKM-03 controllers are used with our Signaline HD linear heat detection cable.
They provide early warning of an impending fire by detecting overheating in environments that are difficult to monitor.
Some examples of where Signaline is used can be found here.
Here are the top five things you might not know about our SKM Controllers:
1. IP65 rated
Providing a higher level of ingress protection ensures reduced maintenance while allowing the controller and sensor cable to be field-mounted in exposed areas.
2. Approved by VdS to EN54 part 5
LGM strives to only offer products that reach distinguished international standards – the SKM-03 and SKM-95 controllers and Signaline HD and HD-R are approved to EN54 part 5 by VdS.
3. Flexible and easy to install
The back box can be mounted ‘up’ or ‘down’ and the internal PCB and the front plate can be rotated to match. Additionally, both the SKM-03 and SKM-95 are supplied with an EOL termination box. You’re all set for an easy and quick installation!
4. Low Current Consumption
Even in alarm state the unit has a low current consumption which means there is no need for extra battery back up on conventional or addressable systems.
5. Compatible with conventional and addressable detection systems
For conventional systems the SKM-03 is the ideal solution. Whereas if you are using an Apollo addressable XP95 or Discovery loop then the SKM-95 can sit directly on the loop without the need for extra monitor modules!
If you need a linear heat detection solution which is approved to EN54, then Signaline HD is more than just a great option.
In fact, it is the only option currently on the market that is approved for both addressable and conventional fire systems.
Signaline HD is an analogue resettable linear heat detector that monitors significant increases in temperature.
An electronic controller connected to the Signaline HD cable monitors changes in temperature by continually measuring the electrical resistance between the cable’s metallic core and its outer braiding. If a sufficiently high change in temperature is detected, then the controller triggers an alarm.
Our Signaline HD and SKM Controller range is approved by VdS to EN54 part 5 which means any fire system with Signaline HD installed will meet the same standards as a traditional ‘spot’ type heat detector.
This means a Signaline HD linear heat detection system can replace any traditional spot detector system and can be installed in exactly the same way.
Moreover, Signaline HD cable acts as a detector anywhere along its length which means better fire detection coverage.
Linear heat detection cable is also less susceptible to environmental conditions than spot type detectors making it perfect for farm buildings, car parks and a variety of other applications.
For particularly harsh or chemical environments, our Signaline HD-R cable is nylon coated and – rest assured – approved to EN54 as well.
If you stretched it out from our offices in Farnham, UK the linear heat detection cable we have distributed would reach all the way to Berlin in Germany!
We want to thank all our customers and distributors around the world who have specified, purchased and installed our detection cable.
The Syncro XT+ is a multi-area addressable extinguishant panel complying with EN12094-1. The panel can be used for up to 16 zones over 1 or 2 loops making it suitable for small or large fire extinguishing systems.
Our Signaline Fixed Temperature (FT) linear heat detection cable can be linked to an addressable interface of the Syncro XT+ loop.
When Signaline FT detects a fire, the panel identifies the detector’s address locating the fire and releasing an extinguishing agent to the specific area.
Signaline FT is maintenance free, low cost and easy to install. Used in conjunction with the Syncro XT+, customers will benefit from a cost-effective fire detection solution which quickly detects and identifies the location of a fire.
Signaline also reduces instances of false alarms meaning the extinguishing agent is not released unnecessarily causing unwanted damage and costly repairs.
Among many applications, the Syncro XT+ and Signaline FT combination is suitable for use in computer server rooms, IT infrastructure, kitchens and factories.
The panel can also be used with Apollo or Hochiki addressable loops.
Both the Syncro XT+ and Signaline FT are available for purchase from LGM Products.
Please contact our sales team directly for more information: sales@lgmproducts.com.
Signaline now has a brand new website – keeping you up to date with our comprehensive range of linear detection products for fire, water and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The site has a range of new and improved features including:
Brand new search facility allowing you to search by product name and code
New and improved site navigation with expandable menus
Filter products quickly by alarm temperature, environment and industry approval
‘Related products’ are clearly displayed
Comprehensive product information in PDF datasheets
The risk of damage to wind turbines from fire is second only to the risk from blade failure according to a recent article in Windpower Engineering and Development.
The risk from fire is significant because wind turbines pose particular fire detection and suppression challenges.
Wind turbines are usually situated in remote locations which means fires can easily go unreported causing substantial damage.
Any fire system must also be able to withstand challenging environmental conditions including fluctuations in weather and temperature, ambient dust and vibrations from the turbine itself.
The article highlights the use of linear heat detection (LHD) as a good method of addressing some of the challenges.
Linear heat detection systems are not affected by air or dust reducing ongoing maintenance to zero. Any other system would have to be cleaned and maintained.
Linear heat detection is also a mechanical – rather than an electrical – alarm system which is activated when the heat sensitive polymer melts. This significantly reduces the power required to operate the system compared with other detection methods.
For wind turbines we would recommend installing Signaline FT – a simple cost-effective solution which is not affected by dust and air temperature fluctuations, requires no ongoing maintenance and would not need its own dedicated power supply.
Did you know that Signaline offers the only EN54 approved analogue linear heat detection system in the world which is loop powered and addressable?
Our Signaline SKM-95 Controller – approved by VdS – is compatible with Apollo XP95/Discovery addressable systems.
The controller has its own addressing dip switch and is powered directly from the loop. This eliminates the need for loop interfaces or additional power supplies and provides significant cost savings.
Using a Signaline SKM-95 Controller is an ideal way of integrating linear heat detection with large BMS fire systems, such as in a multi-storey car park installation.
Combining the SKM-95 Controller with Signaline HD analogue cable allows you to integrate this part of your fire detection system onto the same loop as other areas of your network. In short, it’s a very efficient and practical form of fire detection.
The SKM-95 Controller is also IP65 rated and comes with an End of Line Unit, making installation extremely simple and efficient.
If you would like to make an enquiry about this product please email: sales@lgmproducts.com.
Designing an effective fire detection system for fuel storage tanks poses particular challenges.
Fuel storage tanks are located in hazardous areas, can be exposed to harsh weather, and often incorporate a ‘floating roof’ which means there is the added complication of a moving structure.
Signaline linear heat detection is an excellent method of protecting fuel tanks from fire and we are keen to meet any challenge faced by our customers.
Where a ‘floating roof’ is part of the design, Signaline’s Retractable Cable is required to connect the Signaline system to the top of the moving tank.
The Retractable Cable extends and retracts as the floating roof moves up and down ensuring that system integrity is maintained.
Normally, Signaline Retractable Cable is supplied with 3 metre flying tails for termination. But on a recent project in Saudi Arabia our customer required unusually long tails for the cable at both ends of the installation.
We were able to supply them with Retractable Cable which included 5 metre tails top and bottom – a bespoke solution which is not readily available on the market.
The Retractable Cable also comes with a Hytrel coating – a thermoplastic material which combines flexibility and excellent durable toughness to ensure that the cable will not be affected by UV light and hazardous gases.
If you are interested in how we can adapt retractable cable to suit your project requirements, please contact sales@lgmproducts.com.
Signaline is pleased to be working alongside Specialised Security Systems, Kuwait.
SSS will distribute our range of Signaline linear detection products within Kuwait as we continue to grow our business in the international marketplace.
In collaboration with SSS, we have also gained Civil Defense Approval for our Signaline products adding to our wide range of national and international approvals.
We are looking forward to working with a company which shares our passion for providing excellent products backed by first class customer service.
At Signaline, we are always striving to advance the standards of our products and we are pleased to announce improvements to our range of ‘P’ Clips.
Our high quality fixation clips ensure that Signaline detection systems do not cause false alarms and have excellent system integrity. They are also designed to reduce the time and cost of installation.
Our standard metal P Clip is now manufactured in stainless steel which means the clip is resistant to corrosion in salt-laden environments and areas where chemicals are present.
The stainless steel P Clip still benefits from a UV and ozone resistant cushion insulator.
We have also managed to maintain our existing pricing on these new P Clips allowing us to deliver an improved product for the same price.
Unless otherwise stated, all orders will now be fulfilled with the stainless steel clip.
New Plastic P Clip
If metal is not suitable for your application due to heat transfer concerns or is proving unnecessarily costly, we can now offer our customers a new plastic (nylon) P Clip.
The plastic P Clip still has good overall resistance to chemical corrosion and UV rays and can also be used with our water detection cable.
Please click here to view our P Clip datasheet or contact our sales team: sales@lgmproducts.com
Our Signaline Fixed Temperature linear heat detection cable was recently chosen to protect a conveyor belt system for a cement works in Vietnam.
Cong Thanh Group selected Signaline FT 68 as it offers a low cost fire detection solution for industrial and manufacturing settings.
The linear heat detection cable provides early detection of overheating on the conveyor belt and can be easily removed, replaced or re-positioned during maintenance work.
The cable was integrated with third party fire equipment demonstrating that the Signaline range is a flexible and versatile option for installers.
Signaline linear heat detection cable is being used for the fire protection of Trafalgar Street, multi-storey car park in Brighton, UK.
The system was installed as part of a £4.2m modernisation project of two city centre car parks, which included structural repairs and refurbishment with new power, lighting, security and fire alarm systems.
Trafalgar Street car park operates 24/7 and has a capacity for 275 cars located on two underground levels.
The original fire alarm system consisted of traditional point type detection within the main car park areas. Due to the harsh environment, including corrosive sea air, these were prone to fail or false alarm.
Linear heat detection was specified as part of the refurbishment, as it is designed to operate in challenging environments and requires no ongoing maintenance.
A two-loop analogue addressable fire alarm system was installed with 1,250m of Signaline Fixed Temperature cable, split into 11 zones across the two floors.
For more details on using Signaline in car parks please click here.
The new Terminal 2 Building at Heathrow will serve an estimated 20 million passengers each year after it is completed in 2014.
And travellers will find Signaline linear heat detection beneath their feet if they use one of the terminal’s 18 new escalators.
Signaline HD Stainless Steel was the cable of choice for manufacturer Kone when they selected a fire protection solution for the escalators at the airport.
The linear heat detection cable is coated with a stainless steel braid combining superb mechanical strength with rapid fire detection. The accompanying controller is easily adjusted for any length of cable and the system is also resettable in the event of a fire.
A relay output means that the escalators are quickly closed down when the system goes into alarm to stop a fire spreading.
An effective heat detection system for escalators is a legal requirement after the 1987 King’s Cross fire and Signaline HD Stainless Steel is one of the best solutions.
Signaline HD-S can also be used for a variety of other applications where mechanical protection is paramount such as moving walkways, conveyor belts or industrial machinery.
Signaline linear heat detection has been installed in Ülemiste junction – one of Estonia’s most important and complex road hubs.
As well as connecting the eastern and western sides of Tallinn, the intersection carries traffic between the city centre and the capital’s international airport.
For years the junction has been a bottleneck in this rapidly developing nation but thanks to EU funding it is about to benefit from a major overhaul.
A €80m project will finance the construction of 7.5km of road, new viaducts, signage and lighting, a passageway for non-motorized users, gas and electrical lines, and three new tunnels.
The provision of fire detection in these tunnels was a top priority, but regular point detection can be problematic due to false alarms and difficult maintenance planning.
Signaline FT cable was an ideal alternative with its simple installation and low ongoing maintenance – features which were regarded as vital to the success of the project.
Contractors were also impressed with the fast reaction of Signaline FT and the ease of integration with the tunnel’s complex control systems. The junction is due to be completed by mid-2013.
For further information about using Signaline FT within road and access tunnels please click here.
Did you know that Signaline offers the only EN54 approved analogue linear heat detection system in the world which is loop powered and addressable?
Designing an effective fire detection system for fuel storage tanks poses particular challenges.
SSS will distribute our range of Signaline linear detection products within Kuwait as we continue to grow our business in the international marketplace.
At Signaline, we are always striving to advance the standards of our products and we are pleased to announce improvements to our range of ‘P’ Clips.
If metal is not suitable for your application due to heat transfer concerns or is proving unnecessarily costly, we can now offer our customers a new plastic (nylon) P Clip.
Our Signaline Fixed Temperature linear heat detection cable was recently chosen to protect a conveyor belt system for a cement works in Vietnam.
The system was installed as part of a £4.2m modernisation project of two city centre car parks, which included structural repairs and refurbishment with new power, lighting, security and fire alarm systems.
And travellers will find Signaline linear heat detection beneath their feet if they use one of the terminal’s 18 new escalators.