Frequently Asked Questions
Raptor Spark Detection and Extinguishing System
Why install a Raptor Spark Detection System on a dust collector or baghouse?
The primary benefit of installing a spark detection and extinguishing system is to stop ignition sources from entering the dust collector or baghouse—areas where the conditions for fire or explosion are often present.
How does a spark detector function?
A spark detector monitors infrared light in its field of vision. It recognises sparks or embers by detecting a spike in infrared emissions, which typically stand out from the surrounding environment in industrial settings.
Which industries use the Raptor Spark Detection System?
This system is widely used by businesses in the woodworking, paper, food, tobacco, textile, bioenergy, hygiene, and recycling sectors.
What certifications does the Raptor Spark Detection System have?
The system is FM approved and CE listed.
What is the role of Raptor Spark Detectors in explosion prevention?
Spark detectors serve as the initial detection point in a fire or explosion prevention setup. When connected to the Fire Control Panel, they can trigger one or several safety mechanisms depending on the configuration.
What makes the Raptor spark detector different from other IR sensors?
Its key advantage is speed. The detector quickly registers infrared changes caused by fast-moving hot particles and immediately relays the information to initiate safety measures via the fire control system.
How does the extinguishing mechanism operate?
When paired with extinguishing nozzles in the ducting, the system sprays a targeted water mist to extinguish detected sparks. Detectors must be installed far enough upstream to allow time for detection, signal processing, and spray activation.
How fast is the system’s response time from detection to suppression?
The Raptor system triggers the extinguishing unit in 200 milliseconds.
Will the water spray affect operations or damage the filters?
The system is engineered to use only the necessary amount of water to eliminate a spark. The spray is brief and targeted, making disruption to filters or processes highly unlikely.
Is the sensor affected by ambient light or daylight?
No. The detector is sensitive only to infrared radiation, not to visible or blue light, unlike standard detectors that rely on silicone photodiodes.
What is the required distance between the detector and the nozzle?
The distance depends on air velocity. For instance, at 20 m/s, the required gap is 5.07 metres (refer to the official chart for complete guidelines).
What is the minimum water pressure needed for proper operation?
The system operates at 4.99 bar, with an acceptable pressure range between 4.34 and 5.65 bar in accordance with FM approval standards.
Raptor Gate™ Heavy Duty High Speed Abort Gate
How is the distance between the sensor and the gate determined?
To calculate the correct placement, divide the air velocity (in feet per minute) by two. For example, at 3000 FPM, the gate should be placed 25 feet downstream from the sensor. Lighter or less robust gates typically require twice the distance, which may not be practical for many installations.
What does “High Speed” mean in the context of an abort gate?
Our Raptor Gate is engineered to close in just 500 milliseconds. According to NFPA 654 (C.1.2.2), the time between spark detection and gate actuation must be predictable. This rapid response is achieved through our spring-assisted mechanism and robust honeycomb gate structure. Without these features and a heavy-duty blade, a gate cannot be considered truly high speed.
Is the Raptor Gate compatible with third-party spark detection systems?
Yes, it can be integrated with any spark detection equipment. Boss Products UK also offers an optional stand-alone infrared sensor, as well as complete spark detection and extinguishing packages.
Is the Raptor Gate NFPA approved?
NFPA does not approve specific abort gates. However, our Raptor Gate is designed to meet and exceed all NFPA guidelines for spark and fire mitigation systems.
Is it necessary to install a ladder or service platform?
While not mandatory, NFPA guidelines recommend regular inspection and maintenance of abort gates. A safe access platform facilitates this process.
Must the Raptor Gate be mounted horizontally?
Yes. The gate operates by gravity with spring assistance, so horizontal installation is required for proper function.
Can this gate be installed indoors?
Yes, but it is essential to consult local building codes, especially concerning duct venting and fire safety. Some regulations may specify material types, thicknesses, or sealing requirements. Always ensure venting is directed safely.
Why do some abort gates cost significantly less than others?
Less expensive gates are typically built with lighter materials and lack key features like spring assistance, electromagnetic actuators, or a reinforced honeycomb blade. Our Raptor Gate is built with durable ¼” and ⅜” plate steel and features a 2-7/8” shaft, delivering unmatched strength and reliability. This construction ensures that the 800lb blade can close effectively in under half a second.
Will I need additional structural support to install the Raptor Gate?
In most cases, yes. Due to its substantial weight, the Raptor Gate usually requires dedicated structural support.
Can the Raptor Gate prevent an explosion?
No, abort gates are not designed to stop explosions. Their role is to divert sparks, flames, or contaminated air—such as that from a ruptured filter or system fault—before it re-enters the facility. They are not suitable for explosion isolation.
Flat, Domed, and High Vacuum Domed Explosion Vent Panels
Is a burst sensor required on VL or VD explosion panels?
Yes. To comply with NFPA 68 section 6.9.6, all explosion relief devices must be fitted with an indicating sensor that alerts the user once the panel has activated.
Is intrinsically safe wiring necessary for the inductive or magnetic burst sensor?
No. For the inductive sensor, intrinsically safe wiring is not required. However, if you opt for the breakable burst sensor, you’ll also need a compatible intrinsically safe control box (Part No. 56001-010000).
How is the inductive burst sensor connected to the control panel?
The inductive sensor has three wires:
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Brown connects to a 24V+ terminal
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Blue connects to a 0V– terminal
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Black serves as the signal wire
Further wiring details are outlined on page 10 of the Explosion Vent Panel user manual.
How is the magnetic burst sensor connected to the control panel?
The magnetic sensor has two wires:
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Brown connects to a 24V+ terminal
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Blue connects to a 0V– terminal
Refer to page 12 of the Explosion Vent Panel manual for additional guidance.
How do I determine which explosion panel is appropriate for my system?
he correct panel type depends primarily on the vacuum pressure present in your process. For precise selection, please refer to Table 1 in the Explosion Vent Panel manual, which outlines the maximum allowable negative pressure for each panel model.
Explosion Isolation Valve VigiFlap
Can the dust level sensor be fitted after the VIGIFLAP has already been installed?
Yes. You can install the sensor afterwards by accessing the interior via the top access door of the VIGIFLAP. This allows you to mount the sensor flange from the inside. For details, refer to page 14 of the VIGIFLAP manual.
How can I tell if I have a CP04 or CP05 control panel?
Each control panel is labelled with a model sticker on the enclosure door. If the sticker is missing, you can identify the version by the casing:
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The CP05 features a grey enclosure with a printed front decal.
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The CP04 has a red enclosure.
How should I connect the dust level sensor to the control panel?
To wire the sensor, connect the brown wire to terminal 4.1 and the blue wire to terminal 4.3 on the intrinsic safety relay barrier. Wiring details can be found on page 15 of the manual.
What is the correct wiring for the proximity sensor?
Connect the brown wire to the 24V+ terminal, the black wire to terminal 1, and the blue wire to the 0V terminal. Refer to page 15 of the VIGIFLAP manual for full instructions.
How deep should the dust level sensor be installed inside the VIGIFLAP?
The recommended installation depth is 32 mm (1.25 inches) from the bottom surface of the outer mounting flange to the tip of the sensor. This ensures accurate operation. See page 14 of the manual for guidance.
Flameless Explosion Vent
Is a burst sensor required on the VIGIFLAM vent to meet compliance standards?
Yes. In accordance with NFPA 68 (section 6.9.6), every explosion vent device must include an indicating sensor that alerts the user when the device has activated.
Is intrinsically safe wiring required for the inductive burst sensor?
No. The inductive burst sensor does not require intrinsically safe wiring. However, if you choose to use a breakable burst sensor, it must be paired with the appropriate intrinsically safe control box (Part Number 56001-010000).
How is the inductive burst sensor wired to a control panel?
The sensor is connected using three wires:
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The brown wire connects to any 24V+ terminal
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The blue wire connects to any 0V– terminal
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The black wire functions as the signal wire
For a full wiring diagram, refer to page 13 of the Flameless Explosion Vent user manual.
Rotary Valves HT250 and HT350
How can I connect a circular rotary valve outlet to a square hopper inlet?
To simplify the installation between circular flanges and square hopper connections, Boss Products UK provides square-to-round transition adapters for both the HT250 and HT350 models.
Available transitions include:
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HT250: Ø10” to 8″ x 8″ (Ref: 46701-992600)
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HT250: Ø10” to 10″ x 10″ (Ref: 46701-992700)
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HT350: Ø14” to 12″ x 12″ (Ref: 46701-993600)
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HT350: Ø14” to 14″ x 14″ (Ref: 46701-993700)
Why is there a rubber piece covering the top and bottom of the valve when delivered?
All rotary valves are shipped with an SBR rubber gasket covering both flanges. This serves to protect the unit during transport and handling, while also functioning as a sealing gasket for installation. Before fitting the valve, the perforated centres of the gasket must be removed by the installer.
How should I choose the right gearmotor for my rotary valve?
The gearmotor must match the correct voltage, phase, and frequency for the intended site. HT rotary valves are typically available in 15 RPM and 30 RPM options. Our team will advise the most appropriate configuration based on application type and dust characteristics.
Which lubricant should be used in the gearmotor and how often should it be changed?
We recommend using a gear oil with a viscosity grade of ISO VG 220. Under standard conditions, the oil should be replaced every 10,000 hours of operation or every two years, whichever comes first. If your facility operates in harsh environments (e.g., high humidity or temperature variation), oil replacement intervals may need to be shortened accordingly.
Explosion Isolation Valve NRVC/M
Can the dust level sensor be added after the NRVC/M valve has already been installed?
Yes. The top access door of the NRVC/M allows for post-installation mounting of the internal flange required for the dust level sensor. For detailed guidance, please refer to page 15 of the user manual.
What is the allowable distance between the NRVC/M and the dust collector?
The minimum and maximum installation distances vary depending on the model size. You’ll find the correct specifications in the table on page 5 of the NRVC/M manual.
Is it possible to install the counterweight arm on either side of the valve?
o. The counterweight arm must be mounted in a fixed orientation. It cannot be reversed or relocated to the opposite side of the NRVC/M.
Can elbows be placed between the NRVC/M and the dust collector?
This depends on the version of the valve:
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The NRVC allows for one elbow between the valve and the collector.
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The NRVM version permits up to two elbows.
How is the dust level sensor wired to a CP05 control panel?
Connect the brown wire to terminal 4.1 and the blue wire to terminal 4.3 on the intrinsic safety relay barrier. See page 16 of the manual for complete wiring instructions.
What is the correct wiring for the microswitch to the CP05 control panel?
Only two wires are required:
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Black goes to the 24V+ terminal
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Grey goes to terminal 1
Any additional wires from the microswitch can be disregarded. Refer to page 16 of the manual for further details.
What is the recommended installation depth for the dust level sensor?
For proper operation, the sensor should be positioned 32 mm from the bottom face of the outer mounting flange to the sensor’s tip. Full instructions are provided on page 15 of the NRVC/M manual.
Explosion Isolation Valve NRV
Can the dust level sensor be installed after the NRV valve is already in place?
Yes, it is possible to install the dust level sensor post-installation. Simply access the top hatch on the NRV to fit the internal mounting flange. See page 15 of the NRV manual for more detail.
How far can the NRV be positioned from the dust collector?
The appropriate installation distance is determined by the size of the valve. Refer to the distance table on page 5 of the manual to confirm the minimum and maximum lengths allowed for each NRV model.
Can the counterweight arm be mounted on either side of the NRV?
Yes. On NRV models with a single flap, the counterweight arm can be installed on either side of the valve.
How do I identify whether I have a CP04 or CP05 control panel?
Each panel should have a model label on the front. If it’s missing, you can distinguish them by colour:
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The CP04 comes in red
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The CP05 is grey
Both enclosures are plastic.
How is the dust level sensor connected to the control panel?
To connect the sensor:
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The brown wire goes to terminal 4.1
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The blue wire goes to terminal 4.3 on the intrinsic safety relay
Further details can be found on page 19 of the NRV manual.
What’s the correct wiring for the microswitch?
Only two wires are needed for connection:
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Black wire goes to 24V+
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Grey wire connects to terminal 1
All other microswitch wires can be ignored. Refer to page 19 of the manual for confirmation.
What is the correct sensor depth for installation?
For accurate measurement, the sensor should be placed 32 mm from the underside of the outer mounting flange to the tip of the sensor. See page 15 for illustration.
