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SPARK-EX

Spark Detection and Extinguishing System

The SPARK-EX Spark Detection and Extinguishing System provides a critical layer of proactive safety, engineered to prevent fires and dust explosions in industrial processing and material handling environments. 

Its primary function is to identify and neutralise incipient ignition sources, such as sparks and embers, before they can propagate through ductwork or conveyors into high-risk equipment like dust collectors or storage silos.

 

The key strength of SPARK-EX lies in its immediate response. By extinguishing potential ignition sources directly at the point of detection, the system minimizes the risk of fire and explosion far more effectively than traditional, reactive fire suppression methods. 

Early intervention is critical: a single spark inside a dust collector with combustible dust can cause a violent deflagration, while a smoldering ember in a silo has the potential to ignite a major fire. SPARK-EX provides a robust, preventive safeguard at the most vulnerable stages of industrial processing.

Trusted Protection Across Industries

  • Automotive
  • Bio Energy
  • Chemical
  • Coffee
  • Feed mills
  • Food Processing
  • Grain Dryers 
  • Metal Working
  • Paper & Pulp
  • Panel & Fiberboard
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Plastics
  • Power generation
  • Recycling
  • Rice mills
  • Textile
  • Tobacco
  • Waste Management
  • Wood processing
  • And many more…
ระบบตรวจจับและดับประกายไฟ SPARK-EX เป็นการป้องกันเชิงรุกที่สำคัญ ออกแบบมาเพื่อป้องกันอัคคีภัยและการระเบิดของฝุ่นในสภาพแวดล้อมการผลิตทางอุตสาหกรรมและการจัดการวัสดุ

Mitigation of Fire and Explosion Hazards

Utilising infrared (IR) detectors, the SPARK-EX Spark Detection and Extinguishing System identifies incandescent particles that present an ignition risk. Optimal detection sensitivity is achieved when the detectors are employed within a dark environment, a condition easily met inside enclosed ductwork. For applications in lit areas, optional ‘daylight’ detectors are available.

Upon detection of a spark, the system provides several pre-configurable options to manage the ignition risk:

1. Active Extinguishing: A water spray nozzle, positioned downstream from the detection point, is activated to neutralise the ignition source.

2. Automated Process Shutdown: The system can initiate a shutdown of the material handling process to prevent the further generation or transport of sparks.

3. External Device Activation: A signal can be transmitted to activate ancillary control devices, such as diversion gates or shut-off valves.

The Spark Detection and Extinguishing System operates in a continuous, fully automatic mode. All critical circuits are subject to constant monitoring to ensure system integrity, with an immediate alarm being raised in the event of any detected malfunction.

Core System Benefits

  • Proactive Risk Mitigation: Detects and extinguishes ignition sources at their point of origin, preventing fires and explosions before they can escalate.
  • Uninterrupted Production: The high-speed response ensures that potential hazards are managed without disrupting continuous manufacturing processes.
  • Modular and Scalable Architecture: The system is adaptable to specific operational requirements, from single-point protection to extensive, plant-wide networks.
  • Assured Compliance: Helps facilities meet stringent safety regulations and can contribute to reduced insurance premiums by demonstrating advanced risk management.

Fully Automatic Operation

The Spark Detection and Extinguishing System operates fully automatically, ensuring seamless protection without manual intervention. Equipped with high-speed infrared sensors, the system can detect sparks, triggering an immediate response to suppress potential ignition sources within 0.25 seconds.
This rapid-response capability makes it ideal for high-risk industrial environments where early intervention is critical for safety and operational continuity.

Automatic Testing

The DC1 Control Unit performs automatic tests to ensure system reliability, including: Verifying the functionality of the Spark Detectors Monitoring the battery voltage of the built-in backup batteries Checking the connection of the optional water spray nozzle system Testing the operation of optional trace heating (frost protection for water spray systems) Additionally, system status can be manually verified by owner/operator personnel at any time.

Manual Testing

Via a touch of the DC1 Control Unit keypad you can perform a manual test which makes the same checks as the automatic test routine. The manual check additionally verifies the presence of extinguishing water when spray nozzles are triggered by the system.

Alerts

The system provides alerts through a local alarm, featuring flashing lights and a horn, whenever sparks are detected and extinguished. Alerts can be manually reset at the DC1 Control Unit. The system operates with two customizable alarm stages, allowing it to adapt to your specific processes.

Advanced System Architecture and Components

SparkEx Spark detector SDD mounting for SparkEx spark protection and extinguishing system

SPARK-EX Spark Detector

Spark Detectors (SDN & SDD Models): High-sensitivity infrared (IR) detectors provide continuous monitoring of material flow within dark or lit environments. 

 

The SDN ‘Night Light’ detector is optimised for enclosed ductwork, while the SDD ‘Daylight’ model functions effectively in ambient or artificial light. 

 

The Spark detectors are installed externally via a robust adaptor, they can operate in temperatures from -40°C to +70°C. The temperature range can be expanded by use of optional flexible glass fiber cables, 1-or-2 meters long (3-or-6 feet).

SparkEx Spark detector central DC1 for SparkEx spark protection and extinguishing system in tobacco industry

SPARK-EX Control Unit DC1

The decentralised control hub processes signals from up to four detectors and manages two extinguishing modules. Designed for field installation, even in hazardous dust environments, the DC1 executes pre-configured response sequences. For complex applications, up to 34 DC1 units can be networked via a CAN-bus connection to a central monitoring panel.

SparkEx spark extinguishing device SA for SparkEx spark protection and extinguishing system in food industry

Automatic Extinguishers, SA1 - 4

The Automatic Extinguisher SA1-4 is built with five essential parts: a nozzle, an electromagnet, a solenoid valve featuring high-speed opening technology, a stop valve, and a filter. With an operating pressure of 5 to 10 bar, it creates a reliable water barrier to effectively extinguish sparks. 

 

Engineered to fit pipes and ducts of all sizes and shapes, the extinguisher also includes a user-friendly adaptor for quick and hassle-free installation.

SPARK-EX Booster System

SPARK-EX booster systems are designed to deliver the precise amount of water at the required pressure to the water nozzles of the SPARK-EX Spark Detection and Extinguishing system.

 

The Booster System includes a pump, tank, motor control, pressure switch, and flow sensor. It ensures a continuous supply of pressurized water at 7 Bar (100 PSI), essential for effective extinguishing performance.

SparkEx spark booster pump for SparkEx spark protection and extinguishing system in food industry
SparkEx central control panel for SparkEx spark protection and extinguishing system in food industry

Control Panel (Optional)

The Control Panel provides centralised Human-Machine Interface (HMI) with a touch screen offers a comprehensive overview of the entire system, simplifying monitoring, configuration, and event logging for up to 34 independent systems.

Installed System Examples: SPARK-EX System

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