The Safe IR optical flame detector is designed specifically for rapid response flame detection in under-hood, vehicle applications. The detector operates by detecting CO2 emissions from a hydrocarbon fire. The infrared wavelength of CO2 and the specific characteristics of a hydrocarbon fire allow the safe IR detector to discriminate against background noise and other hot bodies common in vehicle engine compartments.

The detection range of the safe-IR system is a ratio function of the detector field of view versus the emitted energy created by a fire condition. That is, as the field of view is increased (i.e. distance from the lens increases) the size of the fire to be detected must also increase in order to maintain constant detection sensitivity.

The characteristics of a fire condition are differentiated from other signals commonly found in an engine compartment. The detector housing is water and vibration resistant. The low profile/flexible design allows for ease of design application and installation. The safe-IR detector is designed with a wide field of view of (approximately 90 degree cone).