Xtralis VESDA VLC-505, Manual

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VESDA Commissioning Guide VESDA by Xtralis
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5.1.2 Pipe Integrity Smoke Testing
This test should be used to test pipe integrity in any typical customer site. This method is suitable for the
testing of standard sensitivity fire detection systems. You will need a smoke source, a stopwatch, and a fire
extinguisher.
It is easy to see an increase of smoke on detectors that have a display module fitted. VESDA VLC detectors
do not have a display and will require extra smoke as the detector will need to reach pre-alarm stage before
they will indicate an increase of smoke.
1. Ensure that the local fire panel is isolated from the external fire reporting equipment and that any
automatic extinguishing or suppressant systems are also isolated.
2. Introduce smoke directly into the furthest sample hole in the pipe run, and start the timer.
3. Stop the timer when the detector registers the smoke and record the results.
4. Compare the time expected by ASPIRE2 with the actual recorded time. If the actual recorded time is
20% or greater than the expected time, check the pipe for breaks.
5.1.3 Smoke Pellet Testing
This method is suitable for the testing of high and enhanced sensitivity environments. Smoke is produced by
lighting a number of small smoke pellets. You will need smoke pellets, a tray, and a method to time the test. If
you are testing in an area with a high roof you may also require a radiated heater to fix stratification problems.
Refer to Section 5.1.1 for further information.
1. Ensure that the local fire panel is isolated from the external fire reporting equipment and that any
automatic extinguishing or suppressant systems are similarly isolated.
2. Cover a metal tray with kitchen foil.
3. Set the heater close to the tray. This is required to make the smoke rise.
4. Put the smoke pellets on a metal tray. The number of pellets to use is determined by the system designer.
5. Put something under the tray to protect the floor from damage.
6. If you are testing a high roof area turn the heater on.
7. Light the pellets with a match, and start the timer.
8. Acceptable detector response time is specified in local codes and standards or as per the system design.
Figure 5-1: Smoke Pellet Testing
For further information on Smoke Pellet Testing, refer to BFPSA or FIA CoP standards.