Scanning Devices Inc.
Sensors, Instruments and Controls
111 Terrace Hall Avenue
Burlington, Massachusetts (USA) 01803
1-781-272-5135
FAX: 1-781-272-4856
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Spark Detection Systems and Components

Application Description

High electrical energy adjacent to conductive surfaces creates conditions favorable to spark production much as lightning occurs in a thunderstorm. Sparks result from a discharge of electrical energy and the resulting oxidation of the natural atmosphere to produce ozone. Energy is released in the near infrared region, invisible to the human eye, which results in the further generation of heat and light. Light is broad spectrum white light visible to the human eye.

Photo of spark detection sensor
Model P-4-1 Near-Infrared Region Sensor

Sparks can produce substantial damage to products in process as energy release can lead to combustion. Electrical equipment such as microwave ovens, radio transmitters and motors are often equipped with spark detection sensors and automatic shut-down/product evacuation measures to prevent sparks from initiating combustion.

Sensors tuned to detect in the near infrared region respond to the initial energy release. When coupled with fast acting electrical circuitry, early detection can initiate measures to prevent combustion.

Spart detectors are also used in adhesive processing to confirm operations that require a spark to effect curing.

Scanning Devices Series 110 System

This simple arc detection system consists of one or two photoelectric sensors mounted within equipment to view the energy delivery region. These are wired to a plug-in photoelectric amplifier consisting of power source for the photo sensors, adjustable gain amplifier stage, and output switch. The amplifier's output changes when infrared energy impinges on the photo sensors. The output is wired to industrial oven controls to take appropriate action.

Installation flexibility - Separate sensor and amplifier allow separation of the components by cable and installation of the amplifier away from the energy delivery area in a convenient location with other control equipment.

Numerous models and setup options - variations in input power, output switch type, fail-safe configuration. Amplifiers are available powered by 120 VAC or 24 VDC. Outputs include mechanical relays and optically coupled isolators suitable for PLC connection as well as high-speed solid-state switches. Ampliers can be setup to energize output on spark or no spark.

Photo of arc detection system
Scanning Devices Series 110B-A Plug-in Photoelectric Spark Detector with P-4-1 Photodarlington Sensor
Photo of sensor coupled to fiberoptic light guide
P-4-1 Infrared Sensor Coupled to Fiberoptic Light Guide

Fiberoptic Light Guides - Sensors can be coupled to glass fiberoptic light guides to extend sensing into extreme environments: high temperature, limited space or special viewing angles.

More Information

Microwave Oven Application
Design Alternatives
Installation Guide
Products and Specifications
Printable Order Form


111 Terrace Hall Avenue
Burlington, Massachusetts (USA) 01803
1-781-272-5135
FAX: 1-781-272-4856
Email us: mail@scanningdevices.com

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