How can a flame detector be tested?
A frequently asked question is how to test optical flame detectors located in hazardous environments (that require the use of explosion proof equipment) and difficult to reach locations. For this purpose, special flame simulators that mimic the spectral signature of the flames have been developed. Using a Flame Simulator is the only sure method to perform a full functional test. Most optical flame detectors have automatic integral self-tests for checking the window cleanliness and sensor operation. These detectors include UV, UV/IR, Single Band IR, Triple Band IR, etc. However, these automatic tests do not constitute a full functional “end to end” detector test. The automatic self-tests only partially check the operational readiness of a detector since the actual alarm outputs are not activated (and rightly so as these tests are often performed every 15 minutes). However, to comply with NFPA standards and other regulatory authorities, “end to end” testing of Fire Protection Alarm Syste
