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Xtralis VESDA Manual

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Contents
Xtralis VESDA Manual

INTRODUCTION

Xtralis VESDA system is a very early warning aspiration type smoke detection system.
VESDA system works on the principle of laser light scattering incorporating particle counting function with a fully integrated detection chamber. The particle counting mechanism is used to prevent false alarms due to large volumes of dust or fibers or large airborne particulates presented in the sampled air and not for the purpose of smoke density measurement and detection.
The Xtralis VESDA system installed is a proven and established technology system on International Railway systems for the protection of Rail coaches.
The Xtralis VESDA Aspiration Smoke Detection System installed consists of the following components.

  • Xtralis VESDA LASER FOCUS Detectors - Model No: VLF-500
    Installed in the passage (attendant location) inside each coach
  • Xtralis VESDA System Manager Graphical Software – Model No: VSM- 4
    Installed in the Pantry Car for control and monitoring of detectors installed in each coach
  • Air sampling pipe network with capillary sampling points and sampling holes to transport air to the detection system
    Installed across the length of the coach covering passenger seating area, toilets, return air path, electrical cabinets and general area.
  • Sounder and Strobe light
    Installed in the passage (attendant location) for audio visual annunciation of alarm condition

The detector installed is capable of indicating an alarm in four stages viz., Alert, Action, Fire1 and Fire2. The strobe light (visual indication) is triggered when the 'Action' Stage of Alarm is trigged and the sounder (audible indication) is triggered when the ' Fire1' Stage of Alarm is triggered.

XTRALIS VESDA DETECTOR OPERATION

The diagram below illustrates the different parts of an Air Sampling Smoke Detection System
DETECTOR OPERATION - Step 1

  1. Air is sampled by the Xtralis VESDA detector through a pipe network specially designed to the requirements of the individual train coaches.
  2. The air sample is filtered by the Xtralis VESDA detector to remove dust and dirt before it is passed through the laser detection chamber.
    The filter used for filtering the air borne dust particles is indicated in the below diagram.
    First stage of the filter removes dust and dirt from the air sample before the sample enters the laser detection chamber for smoke detection. The second (ultra fine) stage provides an additional clean air supply to keep the detector's optical surfaces free from contamination, ensuring stable calibration and longer detector life. The detector constantly monitors the filter efficiency and a fault is raised automatically on the detector when the filter needs to be replaced.
    DETECTOR OPERATION - Step 2
  1. The air sample after filtration enters the laser detection chamber. The laser detection chamber used for smoke measurement and detection is indicated in the below diagram
    When smoke is present, the laser light gets scattered within the detection chamber that is detected by a very sensitive receiver system using sophisticated electronics. This signal is processed to represent the absolute level of smoke present. When the smoke density reaches the set threshold an alarm is raised.
    DETECTOR OPERATION - Step 3
  1. The sampled air is expelled via an exhaust port at the top of the detector.
    The Xtralis VESDA detector components are housed inside a polycarbonate enclosure positioned on a standard mounting bracket supplied with the detector. The detector receives power and communicates with the host equipment via screw terminal connections within the unit. Alarms and troubles are communicated to the host equipment via programmable relays and via an RS232 asynchronous communications port. The front of the detector includes a sophisticated user interface to display the operating state, alarm and fault status of the detector.

XTRALIS VESDA LASER FOCUS (VLF) DETECTOR

LASER FOCUS (VLF) DETECTOR - Part 1

  1. Instant Fault Finder fault descriptions.
  2. Dual stage air filter cartridge.
  3. Alarm level definitions.
  4. Control buttons - Reset, Disable, (Instant Fault Finder) & Test.
  5. RS232 DB9F serial port.
  6. Control buttons - AutoLearn Smoke, AutoLeam Flow.
  7. Control button definitions.
  8. Security tab.

Each detector covers an area of up to 500 m 2 for open space protection and maximum pipe length of 50 meters.

  • Instant Recognition display and Instant Fault Finder TM on detector – allows easy determination of detector status and alarm and fault detail
    LASER FOCUS (VLF) DETECTOR - Part 2

MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEM

To set up a centralised monitoring system, a VESDAnet loop (RS485) is created by networking all the Xtralis VESDA Detectors installed in each coach in peer to peer/daisy chain.
The following block diagram indicates the system setup.
MONITORING AND CONTROL SYSTEM
This VESDAnet loop is used for PC based monitoring and control using VSM-4 software.

VESDA System Manager-4 Graphic Software Based Central Monitoring
The VESDAnet loop is interfaced using High Level Interface (HLI) with a PC installed at the monitoring location. VESDA System Manager-4 (VSM-4) software is installed on the PC for complete monitoring and control of all the VESDA detectors installed.
Key features of VSM-4 software are as follows:

  • 3-D Floor Plan: showing the entire area and the location of each detector within the area
  • Real-time Smoke Trending: Click on a detector and see the real time smoke level in the area. You could also see alarm settings, filter status, event log etc.
  • Group Trend Graphs: The Operator could compare the smoke level in multiple areas on real time basis in a single graph. This feature is particularly useful, when the operators monitoring finds all of a sudden smoke level rising in a particular coach, then they could compare the smoke level of this coach with the adjacent coach or farthest coach. The supervisor could also review history of the event across multiple detectors on the same graph to ascertain extent and trends of smoke movement.
  • Text2Speech Option: provides an audible warning to operators.
  • Status Bar: highlights the latest and most important event (prioritised and colour coded)
  • Graphical Location information: exact event location is pinpointed on the floor plan.
  • Remote Event Log Retrieval, Viewing and Sorting
  • Multiple Event Log Database Management
  • Auto-discovery of detector network: wiring order and device configurations.
  • Full Remote Programming of all the detectors: change any function or parameter through multiple editing views.
  • Event Response notification by Email and SMS to defined users on defined events using SMS module

PIPE NETWORK LAYOUT AND SAMPLING METHODS

The following diagram indicates the typical pipe layout in each coach.
PIPE NETWORK LAYOUT AND SAMPLING METHODS - Part 1
The typical arrangement of a concealed sampling point is shown in the diagram below.
PIPE NETWORK LAYOUT AND SAMPLING METHODS - Part 2

These sampling points are installed at locations with public (passengers) access – passage and seating area. Inside equipment cabinet, normal sampling holes are considered. In certain locations of the train, Heat Activated Sampling Point (HASP) is used. These areas include engine room of the Power Car, Kitchen Area of Pantry Car and in all Lavotories of all the coaches. The picture below is a sample of HASP sampling head.

The HASP head operates on thermal detectors principle in its normal operating mode. As fire starts and develops, heat (ambient temperature) increases to such point that the sampling hole is opened and it becomes a normal air sampling hole, hence the detection of the fire and alarm from Xtralis VESDA detectors. As per the Certificate of Appraisal, issued by National Building Technology Centre of Australian Government, the heat activation temperature is 68 C.

DETECTOR INSTALLATION & OPERATION
DETECTOR MOUNTING
The VESDA Laser FOCUS can be installed upright, inverted or horizontally.
Note: Ensure the smoke detector is mounted away from obstructions and below ceiling Level

An exhaust deflector must be fitted for upright mounting, unless the exhaust port is connected to a return air pipe.

Do not install this unit on its side. There is a risk of particulate and condensation collecting on critical elements of the detector chamber reducing the detectors performance.
Ensure that there is sufficient clearance to mount the detector, noting the location of air sampling pipes and cable entry points. Owing to the rigid nature of the plastic pipe, installation must provide for sufficient movement in all pipework (air inlet, air exhaust and cable pipes) to allow pipe ends to be easily fitted and removed.

Mounting location
Mounting location

  1. Min. 200 mm (8 in.) below ceiling level
  2. Min. 500 mm (20 in.) from a wall or obstruction to allow access to the security tab
  3. Do not install the detector on its side

Installing the smoke detector
In all installation cases the mounting bracket must be fitted (upright) as shown in figure.
Note: Ensure the mounting surface is flat. This will permit an air tight seal to be achieved between the sampling pipe and the tapered air ports on the detector.

Prior to drilling the attachment holes for the mounting bracket, ensure that all mounting surfaces (i.e. walls, cabinet sides, etc.). are clear of electrical wiring and plumbing.
When the pipe network and cabling are already fitted, the bracket can be used to aid alignment of the detector with the pipes. The Installation procedure below explains this process.

Installation procedure
Cut the air inlet pipe and exhaust pipe (if used) at 90 deg., and to the same length (for normal and inverted mounting). Remove all rough edges. This is critical to obtain an air tight seal with the smoke detector.

  1. Position the air inlet centerline mark (A), see Figure, of the mounting bracket against the end of the air inlet pipe.
  2. In the cut out section of the mounting bracket mark a line across the top of the cut out if metric size pipe is used or mark a line across the bottom of the cut out if Imperial size pipe is used.
  3. Slide the mounting bracket down (up for inverted mounting) until the top of the bracket aligns with the marked line.
  4. Mark off and drill the 2 bracket mounting holes (H).
  5. Screw the bracket to the mounting surface.
  6. Hook the smoke detector onto the mounting bracket tabs and pull it down into place.
  7. Use the two M4 x 20 mm locking screws provided and screw them into the screw holes on the left and right side of the detector. See the items marked (F) in the Figure Detector removal.
  8. The air sampling pipe can now be attached and power connected. (See section wiring connections for connection information).

Mounting bracket orientation for upright mounting
Mounting bracket orientation for upright mounting

  1. Air inlet port centerline
  2. Exhaust air port centerline
  3. Cutout
  4. Cable entry centerlines
  5. Mounting tab
  6. Metric OD 25 mm pipe mark
  7. Imperial IFS 4 In. pipe mark
  8. Bracket mounting holes
  9. Centerline of detector
  10. Anti-tamper clip

Mounting Bracket Rear View
Mounting Bracket Rear View

  1. Security tab
  2. Finger clip
  3. Mounting tab
  4. Anti-tamper clip
  5. Centerline of detector

Air inlet pipe connections
The tapered shape of the air inlet port is designed to accept standard pipes of OD 25 mm (ID 21 mm) or IPS ¾ in (OD 1.05 in) and provide an air tight seal.
Note: Do not glue the air inlet pipe to the detector. This will void your warranty.

Detector cabling requirements
The screw type terminals located on the termination card within the VESDA Laser FOCUS will accept wire sizes from 0.2 sq. mm to 2.5 sq. mm (30 – 12 AWG).
To reach the terminal block, open the field service access door, (see Controls and indicators section), and then unscrew the front cover retaining screws. Lift off and swing down the front cover. The terminal block is located on the right hand side of the detector.

Terminal block
Terminal block

Terminal Block Connections:
Terminal Block Connections

GPI – General Purpose Input (Terminals 1 & 2)
The General Purpose Input (GPI) is a programmable input. When the GPI function parameter is set to external, the detector shall indicate an external equipment fault condition by monitoring the line impedance. An End of Line (EOL) resistor is supplied with the product and must be assembled in parallel with the device to be monitored. The EOL resistor provides a known termination to the external equipment, this allows the VLF to detect open or short circuits. The detector monitors the EOL resistor, see Figure, and reports any faults when the GPI function is set to any value, except None.

These terminal blocks come assembled and should NOT be disassembled.
If GPI will not be used we recommend that you leave the EOL resistor assembled.

Power supply (Terminals 8, 9, 10 & 11)
It is recommended that the power supply be compliant with local codes and standards required by the regional authority.

Check the product termination wiring label during installation and subsequent Maintenance visits.
Operating voltage: 24 VDC nominal (18 - 30 VDC) Power consumption: 5.2 W nominal, 7.0 W in alarm Current consumption: 220 mA nominal, 295 mA in alarm

Relays (Terminals 12 - 20)
The relays allow alarm and fault signals to be hard wired to external devices, such as fire alarm control panels and loop interface modules away from the detector (example, sounding a siren at Action threshold).
Note: By default, the Fault relay is normally energized when no fault is present. For example when there is no fault present, terminal 12 is held open and terminal 14 is held closed. When there is a fault present, terminal 12 is held closed and terminal 14 is held open.

Interface card
The VESDA LaserFOCUS allows for the installation of network interface card used for networking multiple detectors to form a VESDAnet.
Network Card

The VN Card is a printed circuit board with connectors on either end. It is designed to be installed inside a smoke detector such as the VLF.
Interface card

Installing the VESDAnet Card into VLF

The detector must be powered down before installing or swapping an interface card otherwise damage may occur.
Detector with front cover open showing the space for interface card inside the detector
Installing the VESDAnet Card into VLF

  1. VLF Interface Cable socket
  2. Mounting space for VESD Anet Interface Card
  1. Ensure the detector is powered off.
  2. Open the VLF. See the VLF product guide for details.
  3. Plug the interface cable from the VESDAnet Interface Card into the socket marked (A).
  4. Place the card in the space provided, ensuring that the mount for the screw matches up with the hole on the card. The interface cable should fold under the card.
  5. Once the card is seated firmly, use the screw provided to secure the card. The mounting screw must be installed as it also grounds the card.
  6. Power up the detector

Detector with front cover open with interface card installed inside the detector

Testing the Installed VESDAnet Interface Card
The VESDAnet Interface Card uses LEDs to signify certain conditions
Testing the Installed VESDAnet Interface Card

To test the card:

  1. Apply power to the VLF.
  2. View green Power LED and flashing SYS OK LED on the card.
  3. View amber DET LED lit.
  4. View amber LEDs lit corresponding to correct Port A and B connections to the next device.

Typical Wiring to VESDAnet – Network of detectors installed in different coaches
Typical Wiring

RS232 Compatible serial port
The RS232 serial port requires a standard 9-pin DB9 PC COM serial extension cable (male to female) for configuring the detector using a PC with VESDA System Configurator (VSC) installed, for status monitoring and command input, and for event log extraction and software upgrades.
9 Pin connector and RS232 serial port
9 Pin connector and RS232 serial port

  1. 9 Pin DB9 PC COM Serial extension cable (male)
  2. Cutaway, exposing the RS232 Serial Port (female)

Installation Checklist
Perform the following checks listed below to ensure that all the necessary items are completed
Installation Checklist - Table 1

Perform the following checks listed below to ensure that all the necessary items are completed before handing over to a commissioning engineer.

Installation Checklist
Installation Checklist - Table 2

COMMISSIONING SMOKE TEST
It is recommended that a smoke test be carried out to prove the integrity of the pipe network, to demonstrate that the system is working and to measure the transport time to the detector. This test involves introducing a smoke sample at the furthest sampling hole and then measuring the time taken for the smoke to travel to the detector. Results are logged and compared to subsequent tests to note variations of the system.

PRODUCT INTERFACE
The VESDA LaserFOCUS provides the following information and control options without the need for additional configuration tools.

  • Detector status: Normal, Alarm, Disabled and Fault.
  • Alarm levels: Alert, Action, Fire 1 and Fire 2.
  • Smoke levels relative to Fire 1.
  • Detector fault types (Instant Fault Finder).
  • Test, Reset and Disable.
  • AutoLearn Smoke (setting alarm thresholds).
  • AutoLearn Flow (setting baseline for normalizing air flow and flow thresholds).

Instant Recognition Display
Instant Recognition Display

The Instant Recognition display provides you with an immediate understanding of smoke levels relative to Fire 1 alarm threshold.

Detector control buttons

Detector control buttons - Table 1
Detector control buttons - Table 2

Smoke level display
The smoke level is displayed on the Smoke Dial and provides incident information essential for effective response in very early warning situations. This display provides you with an instant understanding of the smoke event relative to the Fire 1 Alarm Threshold. Between 1 and 10 segments may illuminate. Each segment is equivalent to 1/10 of a Fire 1 warning.

Smoke level and fault condition display
Smoke level and fault condition display

  1. Smoke Diall and Fault Type indicator.
  2. Reset button.
  3. Disable button.
  4. Fault light.

DETECTOR SPECIFICATION

DETECTOR SPECIFICATION
VESDA® LaserFOCUS VLF-250 Product Guide 37 10-sector Instant Fault Finder. Reset, Disable and Test Controls. Smoke and Flow AutoLearn Controls and Indicators. Event Log Up to 18 000 events stored. Smoke trend, flow trend, faults events, configuration events and operational events.
Date and time stamp. AutoLearn Smoke & Flow Minimum 15 minutes, maximum 15 days (default 14 days). During AutoLearn, thresholds are NOT changed from pre-set values.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Instant Fault Finder

When a fault is registered on the detector, the fault light remains ON for Major Fault situations and flashes for Minor Fault. The Instant Fault Finluder function is operated by pressing the Reset and Disable buttons together.
Instant Fault Finder provides rapid fault diagnosis and is an additional function of the Smoke Dial display. One or more segments of the Smoke Dial will ilminate, indicating the fault by number.
The Instant Fault Finder function aids rapid diagnosis of faults.

Instant fault finder diagnosis
Instant fault finder diagnosis

MAINTENANCE

The VESDA LaserFOCUS smoke detector continuously monitors its own operation and conducts frequent health checks. There are two serviceable items, the air filter cartridge and the aspirator.

Electrostatic discharge precautions need to be taken prior to removing the front cover from the detector otherwise damage may occur to the detector.

Maintenance - replaceable items
Maintenance - replaceable items

  1. Dual stage air filter cartridge
  2. Aspirator

Prior to any work or maintenance being carried out on the VESDA LaserFOCUS take the necessary steps to advise the monitoring authority that power may be removed and the system disabled.

Maintenance schedule
Maintenance should be conducted by a qualified service contractor.
Maintenance schedule

Replace the Filter Cartridge (VLF)
The VESDA Laser FOCUS smoke detector uses a disposable dual stage air filter cartridge. This filter removes dust contamination from sampled air and provides a clean air bleed to preserve the detector chamber optics. The detector constantly monitors filter efficiency. To maintain the operational integrity of the smoke detector, it is recommended that the filter be replaced every 2 years, or when a filter fault occurs or more often for environments that experience high levels of contamination.
A fault is raised on the detector, when the filter needs to be replaced. During the replacement process the detector needs to be informed that a new filter has been installed.
Note: Ensure the area surrounding the filter is clear of dirt and debris prior to replacement.
Note: The filter is for single use only, it cannot be cleaned and re-used.

Filter replacement steps
Ensure the detector remains powered up during filter replacement and a new filter cartridge is available:

  1. Push in the security tab and lift up the field service access door (A).
  2. Set the detector to 'Standby' mode by pressing the Disable button for 6 seconds. The Disabled LED begins to flash. After releasing the Disable button the disabled LED will slowly flash.
  3. Undo the recessed retaining screw (C) and pull out the old filter (B).
  4. Using your finger, firmly press the filter switch (D) (in the filter recess of the detector) 5 times within 5 seconds to confirm to the detector that a new filter is about to be installed (see inset). A LED next to the serial interface will flash each time you push the filter switch, and will continue flashing once you have successfully pressed the switch 5 times in 5 seconds.
  1. Insert the new filter (VSP-005) and tighten the retaining screw.
  2. Press the Disable button for 6 seconds to return the detector to normal operation.
  3. Record the filter replacement date on the filter.
  4. Close the field service access door.

Filter replacement
Filter replacement

Aspirator replacement

Electrostatic discharge precautions need to be taken prior to removing the front cover from the detector otherwise damage may occur to the unit.
Aspirator removal (assumes normal mounting, see Figure):

  1. Disconnect power to the detector.
  2. Push in the security tab and lift up the field service access door.
  3. Unscrew the two front cover retaining screws, lift and swing down the front cover.
  4. Only disconnect the fan wiring loom from the connection point (E) at the aspirator.
  5. Undo the retaining screw on the aspirator (A).
  6. Swing out the aspirator, then lift and remove it from the detector.
    Legend
    Note: Any time the aspirator is removed ensure the area surrounding the aspirator is clear of dirt and debris prior to replacement.
    Note: Care must be taken during aspirator replacement. The aspirator must be correctly seated; this is essential so that gaskets are not damaged or dislodged from the underside of the aspirator.

Aspirator replacement steps
Aspirator replacement

  1. Clip the aspirator (VSP-715) into the retaining clip (D) and swing it back into the detector.
  2. Tighten the retaining screw (A) (do not over tighten).
  3. Reconnect the fan loom to the aspirator (E).
  4. Replace the front cover and screw it into place.
  5. Close the field service access door.
  6. Reconnect power to the detector.

Cleaning Sampling Pipes
Follow the instructions below to clean the sample pipe network.

  1. Ensure that detectors are isolated from the monitoring panel and fire suppression systems.
  2. Notify the relevant authorities that the work is being performed.
  3. Check and record the current airflow for before and after comparison.
  4. Disconnect the detector power supply.
  1. Remove all pipes from the detector inlet(s) and exhausts then cover them to ensure that no further dust can enter the detector.
  2. Ensure that end caps are set firmly in place.
  3. Connect a vacuum cleaner to the detector end of each pipe in turn. When turned on, it will extract dust and contaminants that have built up inside the pipes.
  4. Alternatively, introduce compressed air (400 KPa for 2 minutes) at the detector end of each pipe in turn to blow dust and contaminants out through the sample holes.
  5. Take precautions to ensure that dust is not blown into undesired areas. Ensure that end caps are still set firmly in place.
  6. Compare the before and after flow rates. Ideally, the flow should be close to 100% for each used pipe. If this is not the case, the capillaries and detector may need closer inspection. If the sample pipe network appears to be OK, continue with the remainder of this section to determine the cause of the reduced airflow.
  7. Once the system has been serviced, cleaned, tested and is operating fault-free, return it to its normal operating mode.

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