Xtralis, a leading provider of intelligent fire detection and security solutions, recently announced that a combination of its VESDA and ICAM Aspirating Smoke Detectors (ASDs) have been installed at Museum of London.
Museum of London is one of the world's largest urban history museums and cares for over two million objects in its collection with a significant archive. The lower galleries are currently undergoing major redevelopment work, and new galleries will be opening in spring 2010 telling the story of modern London from 1666 to the present day.
"It is crucial that all of the exhibits and artefacts are preserved and safeguarded against the threat of fire," says Paul Dent, the Museum's Deputy Head of Facilities and Security. "Our preferred installers, Wessex Fire and Security, recommended Xtralis VESDA and ICAM as the best performing solution with the least possible disruption to ongoing operations in the museum."
Xtralis VESDA and ICAM ASD systems are designed for use in environments with a zero tolerance for fire, such as historic buildings and landmarks, museums and critical infrastructure facilities. Xtralis aspirating smoke detectors constantly sample the air for even the smallest of smoke particles, thus preventing a small fire from becoming a major incident. A network of pipes can be placed where the smoke is most likely to go, sensing smoke long before traditional smoke detectors.
According to installer Mark Taylor at Wessex Fire and Security, Xtralis ASD was the ideal solution as it did not interfere with any of the Museum's fixed exhibits. "This project presented a host of challenges, including the ease of access needed for maintenance in the lift shaft and difficulties installing systems due to the beamed structure of the ceiling and working over the top of the permanent exhibits," Mark says. "Both challenges were easily met using a combination of Xtralis technology."
Xtralis VESDA and ICAM ASD systems are designed for use in environments with a zero tolerance for fire |
The Xtralis VESDA solution was specified for its advantages over conventional point or bean detections systems in protecting large open spaces; the Xtralis ICAM technology is used in more confined spaces, especially those that are difficult to access. Unlike conventional detectors, Xtralis ASD solutions can be flexibly and unobtrusively deployed to preserve aesthetic features, and maintenance and service is done at a central detector point, minimising scaffolding, ladders and workmen in busy gallery areas.
"Xtralis has deep experience in helping museums and other cultural and historic landmarks protect valuable works of art and antiquity from the earliest threat of fire or security breach," said Samir Samhouri, president and CEO of Xtralis. "As the provider of choice for such cultural landmarks as London¹s National Gallery, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and many other important religious and historic sites, Xtralis is committed to the protection of environments with a zero tolerance for fire by providing the most reliable advanced detection system on the market today."
