Step by step Guide: Sensor Smoke Test

A Sensor Smoke Test is an optional, controlled procedure used to verify the performance of Silvanet Wildfire Sensors under realistic conditions. Instead of using an open flame, the test relies on a bee smoker to produce natural smoke, safely simulating the gases associated with smoldering fires in a flame-free and low-risk way.

Note: Sensor Smoke Tests are optional. They are not required for system functionality but can be valuable for demonstrating performance, particularly during pilot projects, training sessions, or live demonstrations.

Test Preparation

1. Decide when to test:

   • After deployment, if you want to validate the setup later.

   • After firmware updates, to confirm continued performance.

   • As final validation, before or instead of a fire test. 

2. Check your equipment:

   • Ensure the sensor is active in the Site Management App.

   • Confirm all devices have the latest firmware installed.

3. Gather your materials:

   • Bee smoker

   • Dry, untreated organic matter from your site, such as leaves, twigs, or other natural materials.

   • Matches or lighter

Using a Bee Smoker

A bee smoker produces smoke containing gases similar to those from a smoldering fire, making it ideal for safe, realistic sensor testing.

1. Use a small amount of dry, untreated material to light the smoker, then add live organic matter, such as green leaves. 

2. Light the material and allow it to start producing smoke.

3. Pump the bellows until thick white smoke is visible.

4. Keep the smoker ready for short, controlled bursts toward the sensor.

How to Perform the Test

1. Position yourself safely,  stand where you can comfortably reach the sensor without touching it.

2. Hold the smoker about 30 cm (12 inches) below the sensor area and not directly on the sensor.

3. Pump smoke toward the sensor and maintain continuous smoke exposure for at least 5 minutes.
   • LoRa Fire Detection Mode: An alert is typically expected before the end of the 5-minute smoke exposure period.
   • Satellite Fire Detection Mode: Continue smoke exposure for at least 5 minutes. Alerts are typically received after approximatley of 10 minutes, as the additional time required for satellite communication should be taken into account.

4. Stop, and observe the site dashboard to confirm that an alert is triggered. 

5. Repeat the process for each sensor you want to test.

    

Safety Guidelines

• Ensure compliance with local regulations.

• Never use synthetic or chemically treated materials in the smoker.

• Whenever possible, avoid testing near flammable vegetation or structures.

Tip: For consistent results, perform the test on a calm day without strong winds that could disperse gases quickly.

🚫How Not to Test a Smoke Sensor

Do not test sensors by directing a smoker or any concentrated smoke source at the device. This photo shows an example of an unsuitable test: holding a bee smoker pipe very close to the sensor produces an intense, short burst of smoke that does not reflect real wildfire conditions.