Using Distributed Fibre Optic Sensors for Detecting Fires and Hot Rollers on Conveyor Belts

The use of modern fibre-optic sensors based on DTS (distributed temperature sensing) technology has established itself as a proven method for fire detection and temperature measurement. A passive fibre optic cable provides accurate temperature measurements along the length of the conveyor belt, which enables an effective and cost-effective monitoring of even very long conveyor routes. Fires and overheating, which can occur during operation and lead to serious damage and long downtimes, are quickly detected and localized to within one-meter accuracy. The necessary countermeasures can be quickly activated. Heat detection for hot rollers requires a proper installation of the sensor cable and configuration of the alarm zones and analyses. This paper is based on conveyor belt tests and case studies, and describes the potential of fibre-optic based DTS technology with regard to fire and hot-roller detection along conveyor belts.