In the oil sector, one of the elements most exposed to the danger of fire is represented by the hydrocarbon storage tanks.
The best protection of these environments and preventing the risk of fire is fundamental in order to avoid environmental and economic disasters.
Fast detection of fire
In this sense, the fire detection system plays a fundamental role since it is the only strategic tool that allows one to activate the safety measures necessary for fire control in the shortest possible time.
The collaboration between Tema Sistemi and Siemens has brought new technologies to the service of detection systems for the protection of tanks through the fiber optic sensor cable (Fibrolaser III from Siemens), device completely immune to electromagnetic and electrostatic interference, suitable for installation in ATEX areas.
Unlike traditional systems with heat-sensitive cable, the detection systems with fiber optic cable allow one to take a predictive action against the fire: the detection of the outbreak occurs in the incipient phase since the system also intervenes by increasing the thermal gradient (set via software based on the protection to be applied).
Activation of fire countermeasures
These systems are able to locate the fire in a timely manner, identify its direction and categorize its dimensions, making it possible to adapt the countermeasures to be activated. All this can be integrated into a Management System / SCADA which allows the temperature to be displayed and monitored along the entire protected area.
Furthermore, following a fire alarm, the sensor cable can be reset, restoring its efficiency and functionality without the need for repair.