Early Fire Detection with Thermal Imaging Technology

Safety starts before the first spark

Specific risks arise wherever different materials are collected, compacted, and stored, such as at recycling sites or waste handling facilities. A slight increase in temperature, an unseen nest of embers, or a chemical reaction in a pile of debris can transform an ordinary moment into a dangerous fire.

The good news is that modern thermal imaging solutions from Hikvision and Hikmicro can detect such situations at an early stage, even before smoke becomes visible or a fire starts. This gives companies valuable time to react quickly and effectively.

Real safety begins where danger is not yet visible.

Why are conventional fire detectors no longer sufficient today?

Many installations still use conventional smoke or heat detectors. However, they often only activate once a fire has already spread, which is too late to prevent major damage.

Thermal imaging cameras work differently. They detect temperature changes in real time, regardless of lighting conditions, visibility, or dust pollution. This means even the smallest thermal anomalies can be detected.

For example: An inner area of a pile of pressed waste paper begins to overheat. There is still no smoke or flames. However, the camera recognizes the local temperature rise, sounds the alarm, and enables intervention before the situation becomes critical.

This preventive intelligence is what makes early thermal fire detection so valuable.

Thermal Imaging Solutions from Hikvision: See before others react

Hikvision offers a wide range of cameras designed specifically for demanding industrial environments. Below are some product recommendations for different requirements:

Hikvision HeatPro-Series (e.g. DS-2TD1217-X/V1)

This compact, bi-spectrum camera combines thermal and visual imaging technology in one device. It is ideal for fixed mounting points in recycling yards or storage areas.

Advantages at a glance:

• Temperature measuring range: -20 °C to 150 °C
• High measuring accuracy: ±2 °C
• Visual verification via dual-channel image

Area of application: Waste compactors, interim storage, open storage areas.

Hikvision Bi-Spektrum PTZ-Camera (e.g. DS-2TD4167-x)

This rotatable and tiltable camera is ideal for monitoring large areas. Its viewing angle is adjustable. It combines thermal imaging with a 4 MP optical camera.

Advantages at a glance:

• 360° coverage
• AI-supported temperature alarms
• Automated tours with defined alarm zones

Area of application: large outdoor facilities, landfills, material yards with changing operations.

How to Use Thermal Imaging Cameras Effectively in Waste Management

Recycling yards, depots, and transshipment points have special needs when it comes to early fire detection. Different materials, ranging from waste paper and plastics to lithium-ion batteries, can react thermally without warning. Therefore, well-thought-out planning and positioning of thermal imaging solutions is crucial.

What is important?
Here are some tried-and-true tips from the field:

1. Prioritize critical zones.

Focus on areas with an increased fire load.

• Designate collection points for used batteries
• Storage areas with compressed materials (plastics, paper, and mixed fractions)
• Locations with high machine activity (presses, conveyor belts)

It makes sense to use fixed thermal imaging cameras, such as the models in the Hikvision HeatPro series, in these zones in particular. These cameras continuously monitor temperatures and provide an immediate alarm in the event of a deviation.

2. All-round thermal vision with PTZ cameras

For larger outdoor areas, PTZ thermal imaging cameras are recommended. The DS-2TD4167-X model from Hikvision is an example of this type of camera. These cameras can be programmed to automatically scan different zones at fixed intervals, ensuring that no area remains unobserved.

Tip: Set predefined "temperature thresholds" for different types of materials. This allows the cameras to react differently, e.g., 60°C for wood and 90°C for metal.

3. Real-time alerts directly to your cell phone

Use the Hikvision or Hikmicro app integration to receive temperature alarms on your smartphone or tablet. This allows the maintenance team to react immediately, eliminating the need for constant on-site visual checks.

The VMS software can also be used to define specific alarm areas. For example:

• "Temperature rise of 10 °C in 10 minutes."
• "Hotspot in zone C for more than 60 seconds."

4. Mobile Inspection for Sensitive Materials

The use of mobile thermal imaging solutions, such as the Hikmicro Mini 2, is recommended for storing or processing critical materials, such as rechargeable batteries or hazardous substances. These solutions allow for spot checks, such as after receiving goods or when loading suspicious containers.

5. System integration for automated response

Thermal cameras can be seamlessly integrated into existing security systems, including:

• Video Management Systems (VMS)
• Fire protection control
• Sprinkler or extinguishing systems

In the event of an alarm, a camera can automatically pan to the affected area, initiate a security protocol, or trigger an on-site announcement.