Smoke detection is an art form
FFE’s Fireray beam smoke-detectors form part of the fire-protection system for the Serpentine Sackler Gallery in London’s Kensington Gardens. Four Fireray 3000 detectors were installed near the roof in the brick structure. The installation proved challenging because of the narrow gap between the roof skylights, which are fitted with blinds, and a row of steel girders just 15 cm below the skylights.
Bright ambient light, such as from skylights, can affect the performance of conventional smoke detectors. However, the Fireray range has patented light-cancellation technology to overcome the problem. It works by monitoring ambient light levels on the detector and offsetting them from the ‘real’ signal.
In this installation, the detectors are hidden behind a plasterboard wall with a hole cut into it for the infra-red beam of the system (see photo).
