Tyco Fire Protection Products has enhanced its FireClass portfolio of fire detection technology with the introduction of conventional and addressable visual alarm devices (VADs) compliant with the latest EN54-23 standard. Together, the conventional and addressable products provide flexible and innovative solutions for incorporation into any EN54 compliant system design.
“Prior to the issuing of EN54-23 in January 2014, no EN standard existed,” comments Eric Tassé, Global Director, ZETTLER, Thorn Security and FireClass Product Management at Tyco Fire Protection Products. “Misinterpretation and confusion over a product’s performance was therefore a common concern in the industry. EN54-23 harmonises standards, test methods and performance criteria for VADs and ensures that light output is now measured in a uniform manner throughout Europe. The biggest challenge for the industry in complying with the new standard is the substantial increase in power and subsequent current consumption to deliver the required illumination level of 0.4 lux.”
The FireClass LX range of EN54-23 compliant VADs has been designed with the system engineer, installer and end user in mind. With an emphasis on power management and consumption, FireClass offers a unique solution through the efficient use of light. Innovative design delivers the minimum illumination level of 0.4 lux required by EN54-23. This may also provide a reduction of up to 66% in the total installation cost compared to typical xenon-based technology, with no additional power supply requirements or labour costs and a cut in total consumption.
Enhanced features built into FireClass LX VADs include switches to reduce current consumption from 1Hz to 0.5Hz, and a coverage selector which enables the installer to select a pre-set area of either 7.5m or 5m. This benefits end users by reducing the power required to operate the VAD and avoids wasting current if the area covered is smaller than the designed size of the component. The new range also incorporates the latest LED technology to ensure that a stable, bright and reliable light output is guaranteed. This includes a unique lens design which provides an efficient, low-current solution to the challenges of EN54-23 compliance.
The FireClass conventional range includes wall and ceiling beacons as well as indoor and outdoor beacon-bases that accept a range of compatible sounders. The newly approved FireClass loop powered addressable models include combined sounder-beacons for indoor and outdoor applications and a detector base incorporating both a sounder and an EN54-23 approved beacon.
The European standard defines wall, ceiling and open category devices and each is incorporated across the series. The FireClass range of loop powered addressable devices allows the system to operate the sounder only, the beacon only, or both together over the addressable loop, without the need for additional controls. Particular attention has been paid to the ease of installation which in turn delivers reduced installation costs. Indoor models use a ‘snap together mechanism’ for final assembly. To ensure security against tampering, a service key is provided that is used to disassemble the unit.
“We continually strive to develop innovative products that offer enhanced capability above and beyond the requirements of recognised standards,” adds Eric. “Our FireClass LX and loop powered addressable products are supported by a complete range of design, commissioning and installation guidance, as well as the knowledge and experience of our fire detection experts to help customers select the most effective and compliant solution which meets their specific needs.”
For more details on the FireClass range of EN54-23 compliant products and to access the latest technical information, visit www.fireclass.net
