Durham Cathedral

A Kidde Fire Protection HART XL Aspirating Smoke Detection system has been installed in Durham Cathedral in the UK.

Early Detection

Early fire detection is crucial in the 900 year old building, which is designated a World Heritage Site and contains many precious artefacts including the relics of St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede.

How It Works

The HART XL system works by continually drawing air from the protected nave and choir areas into a pipe network and transporting it to six detectors. Unique laser technology detects any smoke and measures it against alert and alarm thresholds programmed into a fire control panel.

Chief System Designer

Commenting on the system, Kidde Fire Protection's Chief System Designer - Phil Barton said, "It is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible to preserve the appearance of the building. Two detectors are concealed in the roof void and four in the "triforium" or gallery above the arches. Air sampling points are provided by tiny capillary tubes that branch off from the main pipe network and project over the triforium and through small holes in the ceiling".

Project Manager

Derek Addison, Technical Director of Marbco Fire & Safety, managed the installation. "The height and volume of the building and its fluctuating airflow meant we had to conduct several smoke tests at the design and commissioning stages to ensure optimum performance" he said.

Summary

"The HART XL system provides the earliest possible warning of a fire" said Jon Williams, who is responsible for the fire safety at the Cathedral. "It is barely discernible from ground level and it is ideal for an historic building where access for servicing is difficult and where an unobtrusive appearance, reliability and cost effectiveness are critical".