A fire alarm control panel (FACP), fire alarm control unit (FACU), or just fire alarm panel is the alarm system fire control component. Panels receive information from devices designed to detect and report fires, monitor their operational integrity and provide for automatic control of equipment, and transmission of the information necessary to prepare facilities for fire in a predetermined order. The panels can also supply electrical energy to operate related initiation devices, notification tools, controls, transmitters, or relays. There are four basic types of panels: coded panels, conventional panels, addressable panels, and multiplex systems.
Video Fire alarm control panel
Coded
The code bar is the earliest type of central fire alarm control, and was made during the 1800s to the 1970s. The encoded panel is similar in many ways to modern conventional panels (described below), unless each zone is connected to the code wheel itself (ie Alarm in zone 1 will be heard code 1-2-4 [via bell or horn in building], while zone 2 will sound 1-2-5), which, depending on how the panel is established, whether to set four code rounds until the relocation station pulls (similar to the pull of the stationed codes) or keeps running until the panel is reset. Large panels can take up entire walls in a mechanical room, with dozens of code wheels. The list of codes should be maintained, sometimes with copies posted above the drag stations (this setting is usually seen in the older hospital wing). Smaller panels can be formed in one of two ways. Most of the time, the panel will have only one zone, and therefore, only one code. The common one-zone code is 4-4-0 and 17-0-0 (which are similar to the March 120 bpm Time settings used in subsequent panels, which in turn have been replaced with four uniform temporal codes of 4 discontinuous patterns used since 1996 ). Alternatively, panels can be made without a code wheel, using only what is called a gong relay. Typically, this will be used in systems with encoded pull stations to resend the encoding strike from the pull. However, it can also be used as a zone of its own, with horns or bells being connected continuously rather than in certain codes. The panel is not common today, but it can sometimes be found in older buildings such as on campus or hospital.
Today, there are two types of fire panels:
- Conventional fire alarm panel;
- Addressable fire alarm panel
Maps Fire alarm control panel
Conventional
Conventional panels have been around since electronics became small enough to make them viable. Conventional panels are used less frequently in large buildings than in the past, but not infrequently in smaller projects such as small schools, shops, restaurants, and apartments.
A conventional fire alarm control panel uses one or more circuits, connected to the initiation device wires in parallel. These sensors are designed to dramatically decrease circuit resistance when the environmental influence on each sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. In a conventional fire alarm system, the information density is limited to the number of circuits used.
To facilitate the location and control of fires within buildings, structures are subdivided into specific areas or zones. Floor of multi-storey building is one kind of zone boundary.
Initiation Circuits (known as Signal Signal Circuits (SLC) in addressable systems) connected to multiple devices in the same "zone" of protection, effectively providing 3 bits of information about zones to panels; normal, problems, and alarms. The circumstances of each set of starting devices in a zone are displayed in the fire alarm control panel using visible indications, such as flashing LED/flashing lights or LCD screens.
The panel may use graphical representation of zoning boundaries on floor plans (zone maps) using textual descriptions, illuminated icons, illuminated sections, or illuminated dots on the map according to the start of the circuit connected to the fire alarm control panel.
Larger systems and increased demand for better diagnostic detail beyond widespread location and control functions extend control with conventional zone system strategies by providing multiple initiation circuits in common zones, each exclusively connected to a particular type of initiation device, or a group of device. This arrangement establishes a device type based on a zone matrix whose information is particularly suitable for Tabular annunciators In multistorey buildings using Tabular annunciators, for example; a row of indicators determines the floor horizontally in a stacked relationship and the type of device installed on the floor is displayed as a column of indicators that are aligned vertically through each floor. Floor intersections and device indicators provide aggregated information. However, the information density remains a function of the number of circuits used.
Even larger systems and demands for better diagnostics and location details lead to the introduction of addressable fire alarm systems, with each addressable device providing specific information about its status when sharing common communication circuits. The news and location strategies for the most part remain relatively unchanged.
Multiplex system
The multiplex system, a kind of transition between conventional and modern addressable systems, was often used in large and complex buildings from the mid to late 1970s into the late 1980s. From the beginning, the system was programmed to function as a large conventional system. Gradually, the installation then begins to show the components and features of a modern system that can be addressed. The system is often capable of controlling more than a fire alarm system building (ie HVAC, security, electronic door locks...) without any kind of alarm or existing problem condition. While the main panel is the brain of the system and can be used to access certain functions, fire alarm controls are usually accessed via transponders. These are smaller conventional panels programmed to 'communicate' the status of parts of the system to the main panel and can also be used to access basic fire alarm control functions.
Releasing panel
The release panel is capable of using solenoids to disperse chemical agents such as halon or water from pipes located throughout the building. A release panel will usually have a manual abort button to undo a deliberate discharge that may damage the property or equipment. Releasing capabilities can be part of a panel that can be addressed or conventionally.
Addressable
Addressable panels are usually more advanced than their conventional counterparts, with larger information capacity and control flexibility. The addressable fire alarm panel was introduced by many manufacturers during the microcontroller boom in the mid-1980s.
Signaling Signal Circuit
The Addressable Fire Alarm Control Panel uses one or more Signal Signaling Circuits - commonly referred to as loops s or SLC loops s - ranging from one to thirty. Depending on the protocol used, the Signal Signal Circuit can monitor and control several hundred devices. Some protocols allow any mix of detectors and input/output modules, while other protocols have 50% of limited channel capacity on the detector/sensor and 50% are limited to the input/output module. Each SLC collects connected devices, which can be counted from several devices up to several hundred, depending on the manufacturer. A large system may have multiple Signal Channel Circuits.
Each device on the SLC has its own address, so the panel knows the status of each connected device. Commonly addressable input devices (getting started) include
- Smoke detector
- Heat Detector (Fixed Rate and Fixed Temperature)
- Manual call point or manual pull station
- Notification tool
- Respondents
- Input spray system
- Switch
- Flow control
- Pressure
- Isolate
- Standard switch
Addressed output devices are known as relays and include
- (System/Bell Alerts) Relays
- Door Holder Relays
- Assist Relay (Functional Control)
Relays are used to control various functions such as
- Turn fan on or off
- Closing/opening doors
- Enable the fire prevention system
- Turn on notification tool
- Turning off industrial equipment
- Call the elevator to the safe exit floor
- Enables another fire alarm panel or communicator
Mapping
Also known as "cause and effect" or "programming", mapping is the process of enabling output depending on the input that has been activated. Traditionally, when the input device is turned on, certain output devices (or relays) are enabled. As time passes, more and more sophisticated techniques are available, often with large variations in style between different companies.
Zone
Zones are usually created by dividing the building, or area into sections. Then depending on the specific zone, the number and type of the particular device is added to the zone to do the given job.
Groups
Group contains multiple output devices such as relays. This allows one input, such as a smoke detector or MCP, to have only one programmable output to the group, which then maps to multiple outputs or relays. This allows the installer to simplify programming by having multiple map inputs to the same output, and can change them at once, and also allows mapping to more output than the programming space for one detector/input allows.
Boolean Logic
This is part of a fire panel that has the greatest variation between different panels. This allows the panel to be programmed to implement fairly complex inputs. For example, panels can be programmed to notify the fire department only if more than one device has been activated. It can also be used for gradual evacuation procedures along with timers.
Network
The principle of network involves connecting multiple panels together to form a system. Inputs on one panel can enable output on another, for example, or the network allows monitoring of multiple systems. Networks are often used in situations where one panel is not large enough, or in various development situations. Networking is also an effective way to separate systems to reduce the risk of most facilities going offline at any time due to system failure or maintenance requirements. Sub-Networks can be created using hardware or software architecture. Network systems are usually more expensive and involve additional training and system configuration for successful implementation.
Although quasi-standards exist that allow panels from different manufacturers to be connected to each other, they do not support many companies. One of the most commonly used protocols is BACnet which is common for many types of industrial networks. At least one system manufacturer, the Mircom Company Group provides Fire Alarm Control Panel networks with BACnet interfaces that enable the non-proprietary interoperability of FACP Fire Alarm Control Panel with other building systems. Typical interconnection systems to Fire Alarm Control Panel include HVAC, Building Automation Controller, Security Control/Access or Lift Control. Interoperable systems greatly reduce the long-term maintenance costs of a system and can provide an emergency response that is greater than exclusive offerings.
Arcnet protocol has been used for many years in industrial applications and is also used for Fire Alarm Control Panels network.
Recently, some panels are being networked with standard Ethernet, but this is not very common. Most organizations choose to create their own proprietary protocol, which has the added benefit of enabling them to do whatever they like, enabling technology to go further. However, connecting layers between exclusive networks and BACnet are usually available.
The network can be used to allow a number of different panels to be monitored by a single graphical monitoring system.
Monitoring
In almost every state in the United States, the International Building Code requires that fire alarm systems and sprinklers be monitored by an approved monitoring station.
The fire alarm system consists of computer-based controls connected to the central station. The majority of fire alarm systems installed in the US are monitored by UL registered or approved Global Monitor.
These systems generally have top-level maps of the entire site, with different levels of buildings displayed. Users (most likely a security guard) can progress through different stages. From the top level site -> plan building -> floor plan -> zone plan, or however the building security system is set.
Many of these systems have touch screens, but most users tend to prefer the mouse (and normal monitor), because it's easy enough for the touch screen to be out of sync and errors to be made. With the advent of optical mouse, this is now a very viable option.
System functions
There are many functions on the fire alarm panel. Some of them are:
Class changes
This button, or input terminal connected to external timeswitch, will sound the notification equipment briefly in different rhythms. This is used to indicate changes in class/lessons at school, and allows a fire alarm system to be used in place of a separate class bell system. This ensures students are familiar with the alarm sound and means the notification circuit is tested several times a day.
System reset
This resets the panel after the alarm condition. All initiation devices are reset, and the panel is cleared of all alarm conditions. If the initiation device is still alarmed after the system is reset, such as smoke detectors that continue to feel smoke or manual pull station is still in active position, another alarm will start, or in some cases, the panel will refuse reset until all alarms have been reset/deleted. System rearrangements are often required to clean up surveillance conditions. Reset the system usually does not solve the problem. Most of the problem conditions will be deleted automatically when the condition returns to normal.
In the UK and most US panels, "Silence" or "Acknowledging" are usually required before "System Reset" is possible.
Acknowledge
This function, also abbreviated as "ACK", is used to acknowledge abnormal situations such as alarms, problems or oversight. This usually stops the piezo panel from being audible and makes the active LED solid.
Drill
Also known as "manual evacuation" or "evacuation". In the panel that has this function, the drill function activates the system notification equipment, often for the purpose of doing fire drills. Using drill functions, alarms are not usually delivered to a fire department or monitoring center. However, building personnel often notify this agency in advance if the alarm is broadcasted by mistake.
Silence signal
Also known as "silence alarm" or "audible silence". Depending on the alarm system configuration, this function will silence the system notification tool completely or it will silence audible alarms while the strobe light keeps flashing. Audible silence allows for easier communication between emergency responders when responding to alarms. It can also be used during construction as an initial test facility, before the full final test. The audible silence is usually used right after the emergency has been handled and the building is ready for resettlement. System reset will usually finish soon.
Lamp test
Also known as "flash test". This button is still used in many panels. This function is used to check the condition of the LED itself. The "Lamp Test" button is required by the code in a multi-zone panel installed in Canada. Many panels test the lights when the system is reset.
Walk Test
"Walk Test" is a testing method of many fire alarm devices that save time and require fewer technicians on site. By using "Walk Test", a technician can easily walk around the building and start whatever device he or she wants. Doing so will send a signal to the panel, which will vibrate the NAC several times to indicate the zone where the device is connected. Silent Walktest will only turn on the alarm light on the panel, so there is no signal.
Panel indicator
Many panels today have the ability to alert building personnel of a situation that can appear to be a potentially serious problem. The fire alarm panel shows abnormal conditions through solid or flashing LEDs. Some panels also contain a small sounder, used in conjunction with visual markers. A number of indicators are shown below. Note that not all fire alarm panels have all these indicators.
Alarm
Also known as "Fire" or "General Alarm". This indicator lights up when alarm conditions exist in the system, initiated by smoke detectors, heat detectors, sprinkler flow switches, manual pull stations, manual call points, or vice versa. Along with the indicators on the panel, notification equipment, such as horns and lights, is also activated, indicating the need for evacuation to build occupants. Under alarm conditions, the fire alarm panel indicates the origin of the alarm. The alarm panel can be reset after the device that initiates the alarm is reset, such as returning the handle of the manual pull station to its normal position.
Silence Sounded
Silent Amplifier is used in conjunction with the "Alarm" indicator. This indicates that the fire alarm panel is still in alarm condition, but the notification tool has been muted. When the alarm is silenced, other functions under alarm conditions continue to operate, such as emergency services for elevators, ladder pressure, and ventilation functions. Initiation of a new alarm when the alarm is silenced will pull out the panel from Audible Silence and re-enable the notification equipment.
Drill
Also known as "Manual Evacuation" or "Evacuation". In the panel that contains this function, the "Drill" indicator indicates that the alarm condition is activated from the fire alarm panel, often for fire drills. When an alarm begins for exercise, firefighters or monitoring companies are not usually notified automatically.
Prealarm
These LEDs are often used in conjunction with a two-stage system, where the panel requires two devices to be activated (and/or the time limit specified after one device is activated) to enter the full alarm. It's mostly used in areas where false alarms are a common problem, or in large applications (such as hospitals) where evacuation of entire buildings will not be efficient. The prealarm LED lights up when one device has a trip. Prealarm LEDs can also be used if smoke detectors address low-level smoke levels in the detection room, but not enough to trigger a full alarm. Depending on the system layout, NAC may or may not be active for pre-war conditions. In a two-stage system, NAC is usually encoded to a special first-stage encoding, or in some situations where a loud alarm signal can interfere, the bell will be activated. If there is a sound evacuation system, it will usually instruct the builders to wait for further instructions when the alarm is being investigated.
Priority 2 alarm
Also known as "Security". This LED can only be activated if there is a secondary device connected to the "Priority 2 Alarm" terminal. This secondary device may be a security system, building management system, or other fire alarm control panel. Depending on how the panel is programmed, the panel alarm may or may not be active when such a condition exists.
Problem
Also known as "Fault". When held steady or flashing, it means that the problem condition is in the panel. The condition of the problem is often activated by a contaminated smoke detector or electrical problem inside the system. Fault conditions are also enabled by disabling zones (disconnected from the system), disabled circuits, low power on backup batteries, deactivation of notification tools, ground fault, or short or open circuit. Normally the loudspeakers of the alarm panel will be active if there is a condition problem, although older systems sometimes enable bell or other audible signals connected to the panel. Under troubled conditions, the panel displays the zone or device that caused the condition. Typically, the "Trouble" indicator automatically exits when the situation that causes the interruption condition is fixed, but in some systems the panel must be reset to clear the alarm problem. Some panels have more specific indicators such as 'Trouble-PSU' which indicates when the panel itself is compromised and 'Trouble-Bell' ('Sounder Fault' in the UK panel) indicating that the notification equipment is not working properly. On most panes, the recognition button is pressed to turn off the sound panel.
Supervisor
This signal indicates that some of the fire protection systems of the building have been disabled (such as the fire-suppression control valve being closed and, consequently, the activated spark switching switch), or, less frequently, that the lower priority initiation device has been disabled. triggered (like a channel smoke detector). Depending on the system design, the monitoring point may be attached, which means the panel must be reset to clear the surveillance conditions, or non-latching, which means the indicator automatically turns off when the condition has been deleted. However, some panels require resetting regardless of whether the surveillance point is locked or non-attached.
AC Power
Also known as "Normal". When this indicator is on, power is provided for the system from the building's electrical system, and not from the backup battery. When the AC power condition changes, the Problem indicator appears and the AC power indicator turns off and the screen notifies the building personnel of the power failure. If the AC power indicator lights on without another indicator also lit, then the system is in normal condition. If no LEDs are lit, no resources feed the panel.
DC Power
This is used to notify the operator that the DC power (battery) is being charged or in use. When using DC power, the system remains in trouble condition.
High Rate
This LED illuminates when the battery charger is in high charge condition, where the charger voltage is raised to charge the battery faster after discharging.
See also
- Fire protection
- Active fire protection
- EN 54 Fire detection and fire alarm systems in the European Union.
- Burglar alarm
References
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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