Smoke Detectors

Electronic smoke detectors are a reliable way of detecting fires. Commercial smoke detectors indicate the fire alarm system through a signal whereas the household smoke detectors issue an audible or visual signal as a warning to fire nearby or at the house. The smoke detectors are attached to the ceiling since the smoke rises when anything burns.

How does a smoke detector work?

Whenever there is fire around, it generates gases that are less dense than the normal air. Hence, they rise in the form of smoke. The smoke detector has slits in it that connect to the main detection chamber. When there is smoke, an invisible infrared beam is directed into the chamber from a light-emitting diode (LED). The chamber consists of a photocell. Since a photocell is an electronic light detector, it generates electricity when light falls on it. The alarm rings as a result so that you are alert.

In normal cases, there is no smoke. Thus, the light beam from the LED is not directed towards the detection chamber. Since there is no light falling on the photocell, no electricity is generated. Thus, no alarm rings.

Applications of the Smoke Detection System

Rooms, lobby, basements, halls, lofts, attics, storage areas, elevator shafts, enclosed stairways, and all the other spaces that are especially closed.