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Temperature Monitoring Systems -

Installation

SRG provides full service onsite installations of temperature monitoring systems for live fire training buildings. The systems can be installed in new or existing structures to replace outdated or damaged equipment. A basic install would include the sensors, display recorder, and an audio visual alarm. There are many alternatives to the way the system is installed and that depends on the structure and the purpose for which they the system will be used.

One popular option is to use plugs in the control panel that allows the user to remove the instrument. It can then be stored in a safe place out of the weather. It is also protected from lightening strikes once it is disconnected from the control cabinet. Permanent installations are also available.

All installations include a full system test and calibration including a Report of Test. The testing and calibration is performed according to a written SOP that is supplied as part of the report. This is one of the most important aspects of a retrofit, repair or new installation.


Testing & Calibration

All Temperature Monitoring Systems (TMS) used in live fire training should be tested and calibrated at least annually. The environment is very harsh and can cause sensors to fail or read incorrectly. Testing the sensors like electrical circuits will not provide useful information about how the sensor is performing. Combinations of specific tests are required. Even a visual inspection of the insulating materials and the sensor itself is important, and our testing is performed according to the SOP (attached /Shown) here. We will come to your facility and provide third party testing of the TMS

A full report of test and calibration is included with each system test. Prices vary according to the number of sensors that require testing in addition to travel costs.

If there is a monitoring system in the building it must be tested to assure it is working properly. And experience tells us that most systems are not fully functional due to a lack of maintenance or testing over a long period of time. Often untrained personnel have worked on the systems or they have simply degraded due to use over time. The high temperatures and fast heating and cooling rates stress the sensors including their mounting systems Water intrusion eliminates the insulation properties of the material protecting the connections and cables behind the refractory. (Link to technical page)

Our planned maintenance a calibration program offers an alternative to a break fix approach for a very important part of a live burn facility. (Link to page)

Repairs

Repairing Temperature Monitoring Systems (TMS) is very different than testing and calibrating them and the difference is important. All systems that are repaired should be tested and calibrated according to a written procedure or SOP (link to calibration and testing page). Repairs should be performed by trained experienced personnel using the correct equipment and materials. Live burn systems are unique and require specific types of insulation, connectors and other materials that can withstand the rugged environment of a burn building. Water and fire intrusion can not only damage the sensor but the structure itself. All of the hardware must be attached to the refractory material in a safe and secure manner. Each type of material requires a different technique and fastener.

Many buildings have low temperature wire run in exterior conduit; unfortunately that leads to problems when heat and smoke roll out of doors and windows. Frequently there is enough heat to damage the wire inside the conduit. High temperature glass wire should be used in all areas of a live burn training facility or structure. (link to wire types on technical page). Installing or replacing glass wire requires great care as it can be easily frayed leading to short circuits. Short circuits in a thermocouple extension wire will cause the sensor to read in error of a significant amount in spite of the fact that the sensor appears to be working correctly at room temperature.

Box heaters, alarm beacons, and the recording system will eventually require some repair. It would be preferable to perform preventative maintenance on these systems to enhance reliability and longevity. See our section on managed maintenance services.

After repairs work is performed a complete system test and calibration is required. Ideally this work would be performed by a third party provider. Please contact us if the system in your burn building or training simulator is not working.

New Construction in Service

All newly installed Temperature Monitoring Systems must be tested and calibrated by a third party provider. There are numerous reasons why this is important but the most important reason is to verify that the system is working properly. Not all installers are qualified to work on this type of system. The sensors are made by a different company than the instrument and none of the equipment is tested as a loop before installation. The installation process itself can compromise the system, especially when the installers or contractors lack the necessary skill and experience.

We will visually inspect the system to make sure it is installed and wire correctly. A series of tests including three temperature tests for each sensor will be performed on the system. An initial report of test and calibration will give valuable base line data and concrete evidence of a properly functioning system. The full report will become part of the permanent building maintenance record and it will also serve as a baseline data se when future repairs are needed.

Costs depend on travel expense and the number of sensors in the building. We will work with your contractor on the best time to perform the inspection and testing.

SRG Can Install & Support Your TMS at Any Stage in the Life of the Building

New Construction Installs

Exisiting Block Construction


Existing Metal Structures

ManageD maintenance Services

SRG can provide estimates for ongoing maintenance contracts for all types of live fire training structures. Our team will provide a single resource for all of your maintenance requirements. A live fire training center is designed to withstand very harsh conditions but over time repairs will be required. See our section on managed services.  

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