Heat detection systems are an essential part of electronic fire alarm systems (EPS), especially in areas where smoke detection is not suitable or may be unreliable. Unlike smoke detectors, which react to the presence of airborne particles, heat and flame detectors identify fire based on changes in temperature or the presence of an open flame. Thanks to their design and operating principle, these systems can reliably operate in extreme conditions – such as dusty, humid, thermally stressed, or chemically active environments where traditional smoke detectors may fail or generate false alarms.
Selecting the right type of detection depends on the specific facility, technology used, and the required speed and accuracy of response. That’s why it is important to work with a system that is specifically designed for the application and complies with all relevant standards and certifications – for example, EN 54-5, EN 54-10, ATEX, UL, FM, or VdS. Only then is the functionality, safety, and long-term reliability of the system guaranteed under real-world conditions.
Heat detectors are devices that detect the onset of fire based on temperature changes in the monitored space. Unlike smoke detectors, they do not respond to smoke particles, but only when a certain temperature threshold is exceeded or when there is a sudden temperature rise.
The basic operating principles include:
Maximum (static) detectors: activate after exceeding a preset temperature, e.g., 58°C or 78°C
Rate-of-rise detectors: respond to rapid temperature increases within a short time
Multisensor detectors: combine both modes for more accurate detection
Some types use point sensors, while others (e.g., cable-based detectors) measure temperature along their entire length. In the case of flame detectors, radiation is detected directly from the fire source – even before heat or smoke appears in the space. Heat detection systems are divided into three basic categories:
Point heat detectors
Conventional heat detectors are installed in a fixed location and respond either to exceeding a preset temperature (class A1, A2, B, etc.) or to a rapid rise in temperature (so-called rate-of-rise sensors). This is the most common type of heat detection.
Flame detectors
Optoelectronic detectors that record radiation generated during a fire. They detect UV or IR radiation of the flame in real time – without the need for smoke presence or a significant temperature increase in the area.
Linear heat detectors
Special sensing cables that detect temperature along their entire length. Suitable mainly for tunnels, cable trays, cable ducts, conveyors, and large-scale installations where point detectors cannot be used.
Point Heat Detectors
A reliable solution for compact, well-defined areas with localized fire risks. They respond to exceeding a specific temperature or to a rapid rise. Ideal for environments where smoke detection fails due to humidity, dust, or vapors.
Flame Detectors
Designed to detect open flame using UV, IR or UV/IR radiation. They respond faster than conventional heat or smoke detectors, even in environments with high ventilation where smoke disperses quickly.
Linear (Cable) Heat Detectors
Special sensing cables that detect heat along their entire length. Suitable especially for tunnels, cable trays, cable ducts, conveyor systems, and large-scale installations where point-type detectors cannot be used.
For a heat detection systems to be truly reliable, meeting standards alone is not enough – a professional space analysis and proper technology selection are essential. Our company has long-standing experience with the design, delivery, and installation of EPS systems even in technically demanding facilities. Thanks to our tailored approach, we can precisely assess the specific conditions of each space and propose a solution that is not only effective but also sustainable in the long term.
Leave system design to professionals – we’ll ensure your fire protection works exactly as it should.
