30 May 2019

Kentec, a manufacturer of life-critical control systems, is to launch the Sigma ZXT single-area extinguishing control panel at this year’s Firex, with new functionality, improved displays and multiple configuration options for a targeted response to a fire incident.

Building on hundreds of thousands Sigma XT sales in nearly 70 countries, the Sigma ZXT provides controls and indications for a single-area extinguishing release system, enabling targeted extinguishing that limits damage and reduces costs. Three conventional detection zones provide the alarm ‘trigger’ required to activate the release of extinguishant, and the system can be configured to release the extinguishant on an alarm from any single zone or combination of multiple zones.

Event log

The system, compliant with EN12094-1, can also be configured to provide two extinguishing outputs

A new feature on the Sigma ZXT is the event log which records event data from the panel such as alarms, faults, configuration changes etc. along with a time and date stamp. This historical visibility is critical for diagnostics, identifying the cause of alarms and faults, as well as reasons for activations. Up to 1000 events can be stored within the panel which can be viewed through the LCD or can be downloaded and saved using Kentec’s LE2 software.

The system, compliant with EN12094-1, can also be configured to provide two extinguishing outputs, either working together as common outputs or as main and reserved outputs. The latter results in the connection to two sets of extinguishing gas cylinders, which enables the customer to return a system to a functional state, quickly, following a release.

Single-area functionality

Kevin Swann, Managing Director at Kentec, says the Sigma ZXT supports Kentec’s goal to manufacture products that make the lives of its customers easier. “It is fully programmable through the front fascia, with clear password and access menu structures for easy configuration,” he says. “With straight-forward separate access for users and engineers the product is designed to be easy-to-use for both installer and end user. Single-area functionality enables targeted extinguishing that has clear cost benefits for the occupying business.”

A sophisticated, dynamic LCD, which supplements the LED status indicators, provides detailed information on panel status including fault conditions, alarm conditions and extinguishing release countdown. If dynamic mode is chosen, the display changes colour in relation to the panel status, providing immediate and clear visibility of status conditions. While not in dynamic mode, the LCD will be white regardless of status.

Sigma ZXT

This Sigma ZXT is a complementary development, designed to build on the popularity of the Sigma XT range"

To support our existing Sigma XT customers and the range’s market leading position, the Sigma ZXT is fully backward compatible with the existing SI status units, as well as the ancillary output card,” Kevin adds. “This Sigma ZXT is a complementary development, designed to build on the popularity of the Sigma XT range.”

A range of new status indicators that match the look of the Sigma ZXT panel fascia are also being launched, which are also fully functional with the Sigma XT range. Status units can be located at any access point to the risk area notifying approaching persons of system status, as well as providing optional Auto/Manual key switches and Manual Release pushbuttons.

Fire Cryer voice sounders

Other highlights of Kentec’s Firex stand are the new Taktis bridge functionality, Taktis UL, Fire Cryer voice sounders, Kentec’s disabled refuge Safe Point system, and Virtual Resource, an advanced fire detection management tool enabling remote management of fire systems. A new installer scheme will also be unveiled with Kentec presenting its first ‘Kentec Installation Partner’ with an award.

We have been very ambitious with our 2019 new product and customer offerings, and we are very much looking forward to discussing with existing and potential customers at Firex how these new systems could work for them,” Kevin concludes.