Spark detection and extinguishing system

Spark Detection and Extinguishing System consists of a detector that identifies dangerous particles (ignition sources) in process flows. Once a particle is detected, it is within milliseconds automatically extinguished before it can create a fire or a dust explosion.

Firefly’s spark detection system uses TrueIR™ detectors and advanced signal processing to detect hot particles in the process flow, even if they are not glowing. Sparks visible to the human eye have a temperature of at least 700°C. But many materials, such as wood, can catch fire at much lower temperature, around 400°C. By the time sparks can be seen, it may already be too late.

A hot particle will emit light, visible to the human eye when it has a temperature of about 700°C or more.* All particles below this temperature are perceived by the human eye as ‘black’ particles. As previously shown, most combustible materials can ignite at much lower temperatures than 700°C.
Note that many fire problems in industrial processes are friction-related, i.e. initially creating hot black particles and not visible sparks.
* ref. Wiens displacement law & Planck’s law of radiation

The Firefly TrueDetect™ technology is insensitive to daylight and enables detection down to the minimum ignition temperature (MIT).

Firefly’s TrueIR™ detectors only operate in the infrared spectrum. Conventional spark detectors, by contrast, are based on silicone photodiodes that detect visible light and near-infrared radiation, i.e. temperatures from 650° C or higher.

All Firefly TrueIR™ detectors are equipped with patented Multi-Checkpoint™ technology to ensure rapid and accurate detection. Using a derivative measuring principle, Firefly detectors can identify hazardous particles traveling at speed up to 50 meters per second.