Cost effective, flame sensors offer rapid response with improved detection range

Laser Components has specialised in IR sensors for use in flame detection instruments, since opening their doors for business back in 1982. They manufacture lead sulphide detectors at their assembly plant in Arizona and pyroelectric detectors in Florida. A flame will flicker randomly at a rate between 1 and 20Hz when it is burned naturally, modulating any IR signal generated. Pyroelectric and lead sulphide detectors sense this modulated IR light and so can provide a warning of the presence of a flame.

Laser Components’ PB25 PbS detector is a cost effective sensor for this application and generates a response to the presence of a flame in 30ms at ranges of up to 65 metres. The signal to noise characteristic of the IR sensor determines the range and sensitivity of the flame detection instrument and Laser Components have recently added a differential pyroelectric detector to their portfolio of sensors with improved signal to noise performance. This new product provides flame detection appliance manufacturers with an innovative detector with improved range and immunity to electromagnetic interference.