Instrotech, the local representative for Optris, highlights the use of infrared cameras and IR measurement technology as a means to provide fire protection in high-temperature and potentially high-risk industries like scrap metal recycling.
The Optris IR camera detects critical temperatures and signals an alarm to prevent the risk of fire.
A shredding facility handling scrap metal typically operates unmanned for extended periods of time and has on site, recognised risks for starting a fire: heat, fuel sources and oxygen. The friction of the scrap generates heat that, together with oxygen, can ignite flammable liquids like fuels, oils, and grease, already on the premises, as well as materials such as paper and cardboard.
In unguarded facilities, a fire can spread quickly before being detected. Metal shredding plants are often located in less fortified production halls and thus present increased risk of personal injury and machine damage if a fire does start.
Optris offers a solution with IR cameras in its Xi/ PI series. At an early stage the cameras will detect increased temperatures in shredders, which could lead to a fire, and will reliably signal an alarm to avoid dangerous situations.
For example, the latest solution from Optris, the compact IR camera Xi 410 works fully autonomously. In an alarm situation, the sensor independently sends signals to process instances that can, for example, shut down the motor or disconnect the power supply to affected shredders.
Key features of the Optris Xi 410 IR camera include:
- An optical resolution of 384 x 240 pixels
- Spectral range: 8 to 14 µm
- Temperature range: -20°C bis 900°C
- Spot to distance ratio (D:S): 390:1 (18° optics)
- Motorised focus
- Thermal sensitivity: (NETD) 80 mK
- System accuracy (at ambient temperature 23 ±5°C): ±2°C or ±2%, the larger value applies
- Operates at ambient temperature (TUmg): 0°C to 50°C.
Features such as the motorised focus and integrated auto hotspot finder make rugged and compact imagers like the Xi 410 ideal for safety-related applications, especially in preventive fire protection and condition monitoring of machinery and equipment. The optical components of the infrared cameras can be kept clean effectively in harsh environments by using air purge sleeves.
For more information visit: www.instrotech.co.za
