JEM Systems has highlighted Kidde Commercial’s ModuLaser Modular Air Sampling Detector as an aspirating smoke detection system intended for early fire detection in complex environments.
JEM stated that aspirating smoke detection systems continuously sample air through a pipe network, move it to a detection unit by fan, then filter and analyse it in a high-sensitivity laser chamber.
Multiple alarm thresholds can be configured so responses can be triggered at different stages of smoke detection by local staff, fire alarm systems and fire suppression systems.
The system is intended for environments including telecommunications facilities and data centres where very early warning detection can help reduce downtime.
It is designed to detect smoke during the incipient stage of a fire before visible smoke develops.
In spaces with high airflow or difficult access, including server rack cooling containment aisles, elevator hoistways and automated storage and retrieval system warehouses, sampling pipes can be positioned so testing and maintenance can be completed outside the protected area.
This arrangement is described as consistent with NFPA 72 Chapter 14 requirements, with airflow disruptions within the system reported automatically as faults.
JEM stated that ModuLaser uses a modular design that allows detection to be configured on a per-pipe basis, with up to eight pipes served within a single detector arrangement.
The system is described as avoiding unused pipe ports and allowing detectors to be expanded or adapted as site requirements change.
It also includes ClassiFire technology, which adjusts detection thresholds in response to seasonal changes and background environmental conditions.
Laser dust discrimination technology is included to identify obscuration spikes caused by airborne particles and reduce nuisance alarms.
Up to 127 modules can be networked to a command display interface for centralised configuration and firmware management.
Each pipe is analysed independently, so a fault on one pipe does not affect the performance of others.
JEM said the platform can support cross-zoning between pipes without latency and allow individual modules to be serviced without disabling the full system.
The company also identified applications in cold storage, atriums, auditoriums, laboratories, server rooms and elevator shafts, as well as occupancies where revised building and fire codes require aspirating smoke detection or radiant-energy-sensing systems for lithium-ion or lithium metal battery manufacturing or storage.
JEM said it distributes ModuLaser products and provides design support for integrating aspirating smoke detection into wider fire protection strategies.
