Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems
Aspirating smoke detection systems are mainly used within data centres/cold stores/inaccessible areas due to their rapid smoke reaction. It is used in non-accessible areas because it can be tested outside of its place of protection, meaning you can install a test point outside the protected area.
ASD systems are satisfactory for environments where sensitive smoke detection is required (goods easily damaged by fire/data centres/highly flammable liquids or gasses). They are also used in common areas where point detection is not aesthetically suited (open ceiling offices, hotels). ASDs are also useful in areas that are not ‘maintainable’. As per BS5839-1, any devices installed must be maintained by a servicing company. Therefore sites that can not be accessed (i.e. top of lift shafts) can use ASD.
It is commonly installed to the fabric of the building, using special clips that allow it to sit just off of the protected ceiling. It is installed with a servicing point, usually outside the protected area (if the pipe itself is not maintainable).
