How does an anti-intrusion fog generator work?
A anti-intrusion fog generator also known as «burglar fog» (BAC) is a security device used to protect different types of premises against attempted break-ins, and in particular burglaries.
But we're not, how an anti-intrusion fog generator works ? With more than 20 years of expertise in the installation and integration of fog generators, Density can help you understand the best way to use fog. operation of fog generators and their components.
How the anti-intrusion fog generator works
When an intrusion attempt is detected thanks to the fog generator sensors, In the event of a fire, the device either activates automatically (autonomous system), requires human intervention (remote activation) or sends a signal or several signals to an alarm system before triggering the production of fog.
This deterrent works with a battery and a rechargeable cartridge containing a liquid that turns into vapour. The fog liquid looks like dense smoke, but is actually a mixture of water and glycol that is heated to a very precise temperature using a heating element. The operation of the anti-intrusion fog generator is therefore based on the principle of evaporation, which is made possible by a heating process.
In most cases, the anti-burglary fog spreads in less than 60 seconds. In fact, for areas of more than 2000 square metres and, depending on the model of anti-burglary fog generators, the fog production time will be just over one minute. .
The essential components of a fog generator
To fully understand the operation of a fog generator, Let's take a look at its components.
- Le fog liquid. It is a mixture of glycol and water contained in a cartridge or tank.
- Le microprocessor is responsible for triggering fog production. This component links the sensors to the alarm system and, depending on the model, can also send real-time data to a user interface.
- L’heating element, The evaporator transforms the liquid into vapour by heating it to a high temperature (around 300°C). Equipped with sensors, the heating element acts when it receives intrusion signals in real time or via an alarm system. The evaporation process can also be triggered manually.
- La pump communicates with the heating element of the burglar fog generator. It transfers the liquid to the heating element, then sprays the fog generated by the element through one or more nozzles. The pump always operates under pressure.
How is a fog generator triggered?
For optimum performance, the anti-intrusion fog generator is often connected to an alarm system (central alarm) or a remote surveillance system. However, there is another type of intruder fog generator that operates manually. The anti-burglary smoke generators with remote triggering need to be activated by a person using a manual control: remote control or button.
Automatic fog generators
Most fog generators are triggered automatically and immediately, via a remote surveillance system or an alarm control centre. They release an opaque white fog when sensors detect an intruder inside a building or contact with openings such as doors and windows. If a automatic trigger generator is connected to an alarm system with motion detection, it will immediately release fog when the sensors trigger the alarm.
Remote triggering of fog generators
A manual anti-burglary fog generator is activated manually by a remote surveillance operator or by the owner of the protected building. In addition to the remote control or box, a mobile application can also be used to activate this type of anti-intrusion device. Thanks to human intervention, this method of triggering the anti-intrusion fog generator adds a degree of security and a degree of flexibility, as it allows the situation to be assessed in real time.
See also: Why choose an anti-burglary fog as a protection system?