Flame Detectors

Flame detectors are devices that use any of a number of methods to detect the presence of flames. There are several types of flame detector, including optical, ionization, and thermocouple flame detectors.

Optical Flame Detectors

An optical flame detector operates on one of several wavelengths:

•  Ultraviolet (UV) flame detectors work with wavelengths shorter than 300 nm and can detect fires and/or explosions within 3-4 milliseconds thanks to UV radiation caused by ignition.
• Near infrared array (near IR array) flame detectors analyze near infrared radiation via the pixel array of a charge-coupled device to detect flames.
• Infrared (IR) flame detectors work within the infrared spectral band and use thermal imaging cameras to detect the hot gases caused by flames.
• UV/IR flame detectors combine signals from the two detection ranges to minimize false alarms for more accurate flame detection.
• Visible sensors detect the visible radiation produced by flame.

Ionization Flame Detectors

Most commonly used in large industrial gas process heaters, ionization flame detectors measure current within the intense ionization within the body of a flame by applying a necessary amount of electrical voltage. Whereas optical flame detectors are commonly used to detect unwanted flames for fire protection and safety purposes, ionization flame detectors are used to ensure both the presence and the quality of the heater’s flame.

Thermocouple Flame Detectors

Thermocouple flame detectors are generally used to monitor flame presence in combustion heating systems, gas cookers, and the like. They are commonly used as fail safe devices to cut off the fuel supply if the flame fails.

Flame Detector Suppliers

• Sierra Monitor Corporation provides a full line of industrial flame detectors of all kinds, including UV, IR, UV/IR, and other industrial flame detectors.
• RC Systems designs, engineers, and manufactures flame detectors that incorporate state-of-the-art technology and rugged construction for reliable performance. All are Hazardous Area approved for location in Zone I areas.