Video-based detection analyses the movement, colour and flicker of smoke and flame in the image, while thermal cameras measure surface temperatures and pick up overheating before any flame appears. On most projects these systems are added as a layer on top of conventional detection and do not replace it without the approval of the authority having jurisdiction. We position cameras for field of view, lighting and detection range, and pass alarms to the fire panel and the security control room.
ATypes and components
Video smoke detection
Image processing software recognises how a smoke plume spreads and blurs the scene, and raises an alarm. In high-bay warehouses, atria and hangars it detects smoke before it reaches the ceiling.
Video flame detection
Analyses the characteristic flicker frequency, shape changes and colour of flames. Because the alarm arrives with live video, the operator can verify the event straight away.
Radiometric thermal cameras
Thermal cameras that measure temperature at every pixel give pre-alarms and alarms when hot spots exceed set thresholds. Well suited to areas prone to self-heating, such as waste bunkers, recycling plants and coal or biomass stockpiles.
Analytics software and server
Analysis can run on the camera itself (edge) or on a central server. Detection zones, sensitivity and masked areas, such as forklift exhausts or welding stations, are configured in the software.
Fire alarm and suppression interface
The camera system sends alarms to the fire alarm panel through volt-free contacts or a communication protocol. Thermal cameras can also direct monitors or trigger local suppression systems.
Using existing CCTV
Some software can analyse feeds from existing security cameras. Reliable detection still depends on suitable resolution, field of view and low-light performance, which we check camera by camera during the survey.
BHow it works
- Cameras continuously watch the protected area and stream images to the analytics software.
- The software looks for signs of smoke or flame, or a temperature threshold being exceeded, in every frame.
- Once a sign is confirmed, a pre-alarm and alarm are generated and the relevant image appears on the operator's screen.
- The alarm is passed to the fire panel and security control room, and the event footage is recorded.
CAdvantages
- Early detection in high-ceilinged and open areas
- Visual verification at the moment of alarm
- Thermal measurement finds hot spots before flames appear
- Large areas covered with few devices
- Recorded footage for later investigation
DApplications
- High-bay warehouses and logistics centres
- Aircraft hangars
- Waste and recycling plants
- Power stations and substations
- Tunnels
- Open storage yards
- Heritage buildings and museums
EFrequently asked questions
Can video fire detection replace smoke detectors?
On most projects in Turkey, no. The EN 54 detection system required by the regulation remains the primary system, and video detection is added where conventional detectors struggle. In specific cases, an alternative solution may be accepted with the approval of the authority having jurisdiction.
Can our existing security cameras be used for fire detection?
Sometimes. For the analytics to work reliably, the camera has to be fixed, resolution and lighting have to be adequate, and the area to be monitored must sit within its field of view. PTZ cameras and cameras with poor low-light performance are generally not suitable.
When does a thermal camera make sense?
Thermal cameras come into their own where fires start from slow heating rather than an open flame. Waste bunkers, coal and biomass stockpiles, baled material yards and electrical equipment are typical examples. A thermal camera also keeps measuring in darkness and through light smoke.