Hochiki Europe has announced the latest addition to its expanding range of intrinsically-safe compatible devices – the CHQ-ISM sounder module.
The devices are incapable of releasing sufficient electrical or thermal energy to cause the ignition of a specific hazardous atmospheric mixture in its most easily ignitable concentration. This is achieved by limiting the amount of power available to the electrical equipment in the hazardous area to a level below that where ignition is possible. The low power levels also mean that there is no shock hazard due to excess thermal energy and arcing.
With a similar look and feel as the standard modules in the range, the CHQ-ISM is designed for use in the ‘safe’ area of a hazardous area fire detection system and, therefore, does not require specialised certification.
It allows any third party sounders and beacons installed in the ‘hazardous’ area to be controlled and monitored by an analogue addressable control panel that is configured around Hochiki Europe’s innovative Enhanced Systems Protocol (ESP). The unit is wired either directly to the panel via the conventional sounder circuits – receiving its 24V power supply from the panel – or via a CHQ-DSC sounder controller module connected to the loop, where it requires a separate 24V power supply.
In both instances a suitable intrinsically safe barrier must be used. Hochiki Europe supplies two recommended barriers for this purpose – the MTL5561 galvanic isolator or the MTL7787+ Zener barrier. The module also provides line monitoring for open or short circuits on the wiring connected to both the ‘safe’ and ‘hazardous’ areas.
Paul Adams, Hochiki Europe’s deputy marketing manager, said: “The protection of those in hazardous environments can be greatly enhanced by the correct specification, installation and maintenance of a suitable fire detection system.
“The CHQ-ISM sounder module is the latest addition to our already successful intrinsically safe compatible product range, which is designed to ensure the optimum levels of safety for people and property in potentially dangerous surroundings.”