There is no single “right detector” in the factory; the risk varies with the process. Dust, steam, exhaust and high ceiling make it difficult to detect classic smoke. The right design is to put the appropriate perception at its own risk in each process zone.
Fire risks in this environment
- Dust, vapor and exhaust → false alarm or blindness
- High ceiling → smoke not reaching the detector
- Flammable liquid and rapidly developing flame fire
- Spark conveying in the conveyor and dust collection line
- Cable gallery and panel fire
Regulations and standards
Fire detection is required according to BYKHY and the risk class of the business. ATEX/IECEx certified Ex-proof device must be used in areas with explosive atmospheres.
Recommended technologies
Factory & Industry Fire Safety — the right solution combination and the reasons behind it.
Flame Detector (UV/IR, IR3)
Detects combustible liquid and rapid flame fires within seconds; does not wait for smoke/heat.
Related products →Linear Heat Detection (LHD)
Heat detection along the line in cable galleries, conveyors, and rack lines.
Related products →Spark Detector
Intervention in dust collection and conveyor line before fire starts — detected spark is extinguished within seconds by water spray nozzle downstream of the line.
Related products →Sprinkler (Water Extinguishing)
Automatic suppression in production and storage areas; nozzle type and flow rate are calculated based on fire load.
Related products →Foam Suppression
In process and tank areas containing combustible liquids — cannot be extinguished with water, foam vapor blankets.
Related products →Gaseous / Aerosol Suppression
In control panels, transformers, and control rooms; enclosed technical spaces where water cannot be used.
Related products →Typical system architecture
The plant is divided into process zones: flame detector in flammable liquid and turbine zones; LHD in cable gallery, conveyor and rack lines; spark detector in dust collection line. All are connected to the address panel by monitoring modules; zone monitoring module and Ex-proof device are used in Ex zones.
Common field mistakes
- Installing the same type of detector throughout the entire facility
- Using standard equipment in an Ex zone
- Failing to calculate flame detector field of view (FoV) and range
- Not integrating spark detection with suppression (water spray)
- Relying on point detection at high ceilings
Frequently Asked Questions
Which detector is used in the factory?
There is no single answer: flame, linear heat, spark, and gas detection are configured together according to process risk. Smoke detectors are generally not suitable in dusty/vapor environments.
When is Ex-proof equipment required?
In classified (Zone) areas with explosive gas or dust atmosphere, use of ATEX/IECEx certified Ex-proof equipment is mandatory.
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