Thermocable Linear Heat Detection
Installation and Operation Guide
Integrated with Ramtech WES3 and REACT
Intended use: Technical reference and operational guidance
Applies to: ProReact EN Digital Linear Heat Detection with DSCU-EN, End of Line Unit (EOL) integrated with Ramtech systems
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose of this guide
This guide provides technical guidance on the installation intent, operation, and integration of Thermocable ProReact EN Digital Linear Heat Detection when used as part of a Ramtech fire safety solution incorporating WES3 and REACT.
It is intended to support competent installers, commissioning engineers, site supervisors, and duty holders in understanding how the system functions and how it is typically deployed within temporary, phased, or evolving environments.
2. System Overview
2.1 Integrated system architecture
The solution comprises three functional layers:
- Detection – Thermocable ProReact EN Digital Linear Heat Detection
- On-site alarm and visibility – WES Wireless Fire Alarm System
- Remote notification and escalation – REACT Emergency Notification System
Each layer performs a defined role and together provides continuous detection, clear on-site indication, and 24/7 event visibility.
2.2 Role of Thermocable within the Ramtech solution
Thermocable provides fixed-temperature overheat detection along defined linear runs, typically installed on façades, scaffolds, or temporary works.
Thermocable does not provide evacuation or notification independently. Alarm and fault outputs from the control unit are interfaced into Ramtech systems to enable response.
The Ramtech Linear Heat Detection system is designed for harsh external environments where traditional point detectors are unsuitable. The IP67-rated cable performs reliably in dirty, dusty, wet, and exposed conditions, making it well suited to temporary structures, façades, and semi-enclosed buildings. When integrated with the Ramtech WES temporary fire system, it provides a complete end-to-end fire detection solution, with on-site alarms supported by REACT for 24/7 monitoring, escalation, and rapid response.
2.3 Detection, alarm, and escalation flow
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- Thermocable detects an overheat condition
- The DSCU-EN generates alarm or fault outputs
- WES3 provides on-site alarm indication
- REACT distributes alerts and escalation where specified
3. System Components
3.1 ProReact EN Digital Linear Heat Detection cable
Detects fixed-temperature overheat conditions anywhere along its length using temperature-sensitive polymer cores.
3.2 DSCU-EN Digital Sensor Control Unit
Supervises the detection cable, monitors integrity, and provides alarm and fault outputs for system integration.
3.3 EOL-EN End Of Line Unit
EndofLine (EOL) device is a fixed resistance component fitted at the end of each Linear Heat Detection (LHD) cable zone. Its role is to allow the DSCUEN to continuously supervise the integrity of the detection circuit. Implemented 3.6 kΩ EndofLine resistor.
3.4 WES Wireless Fire Alarm devices
Provide wireless on-site alarm indication and manual alarm activation without reliance on fixed cabling or mains power.
3.5 REACT Emergency Notification Platform
Provides real-time notifications, escalation, and audit trail for alarm and fault events.
4. Key Technical Characteristics
4.1 ProReact EN Digital LHD cable
- Fixed-temperature detection using polymer core technology
- Common activation temperatures: 68 °C, 78 °C, 88 °C (model dependent)
- Non-resettable digital cable; activated sections must be removed and replaced
- Maximum detection length per DSCU-EN zone: 1,000 m (3,280 ft) including leader cable
- LSZH, UV-stable, oil-resistant outer sheath
4.2 DSCU-EN control unit
- Monitors up to two detection zones
- Built-in display shows zone status and distance to alarm point
- Volt-free alarm relays and fault outputs
- Optional RS-485 Modbus communications
- Operating voltage range: 12–36 Vdc
- EN54-28:2016 approved when used with ProReact EN Digital cable
- Independent and interlock (coincidence detection) modes
4.3 EOL-EN End of Line Unit
- The EOL resistor is installed at the physical end of each LHD cable zone, not at the control unit.
- If only one detection zone is used, the resistor must remain connected on the unused zone terminals to maintain supervision.
- Normal condition – cable intact, temperature below alarm threshold
- Alarm condition – heat causes the LHD cable conductors to short at the activation point
- Fault condition – cable break, disconnection, or wiring issue
4.4 System operating limits
Operating limits are defined by cable length, activation temperature, environmental conditions, and power stability and must be considered during design and commissioning.
5. Design and Planning Considerations
5.1 Risk areas and detection objectives
Thermocable is typically applied where:
- Linear coverage is required
- Environments are dusty, exposed, or mechanically challenging
- Point detection would be impractical or vulnerable
5.2 Zoning strategy
Zoning should reflect physical layout, phased works, and alarm confidence requirements, including the use of interlock mode where appropriate.
5.3 Power considerations
The DSCU-EN requires a stable power supply suitable for the site environment. Backup and inspection regimes must be defined within the project plan.
5.4 Responsibilities
Responsibilities for monitoring, response, maintenance, and escalation must be clearly defined and documented.
6. Installation
This section outlines the typical installation intent for Thermocable ProReact EN Digital Linear Heat Detection when integrated with Ramtech WES3 and REACT. It describes how the system is commonly deployed in practice and must be adapted to suit site conditions and the agreed fire strategy.
6.1 Preparation
Design the layout
- Plan the linear heat detection (LHD) cable route to provide comprehensive coverage of defined risk areas.
- On scaffolded elevations, the cable is commonly routed to maintain coverage at each scaffolding lift, or as defined by the site fire strategy.
Compliance
- Design and deployment should align with applicable standards and guidance, including EN 54-22, EN 54-28, BS 5839-1, and relevant local fire safety regulations.
Choose the right cable
- Steel-braided, armoured digital LHD cable is typically used in exposed or mechanically challenging environments.
- An activation temperature of 78 °C is commonly specified, with acceptable alternatives typically ranging from 68 °C to 88 °C, subject to risk assessment and manufacturer guidance.
Clips and fasteners
- Fixings are selected to remain secure under heat, weather, and environmental stress.
- Double-looped steel cable clips, steel ties, or specialist fasteners are commonly used.
6.2 Cable Installation
Spacing
- Cable spacing follows manufacturer recommendations and BS 5839-1 guidance for heat detection.
- On scaffolded elevations, detection is commonly installed on alternate floors, unless otherwise required by the site fire strategy.
Fixing points
- The cable is secured at regular intervals to prevent sagging or looseness over time.
Avoid tight bends
- Sharp bends and tight radii are avoided, as these may damage the cable or reduce detection performance.
Environmental protection
- Where required, conduit or cable covers may be used to protect the cable from weather exposure or physical damage.
Cable routing
- Routing should avoid areas prone to falling debris, cutting activities, or tool damage wherever practicable.
- Clear evacuation routes should be maintained.
6.3 Mounting the DSCU-EN Unit
Location
- The DSCU-EN Digital Sensor Control Unit is typically installed in a monitored location, such as a site office, security point, or designated control area.
Mounting
- The unit is wall mounted in accordance with manufacturer guidance, using suitable fixings appropriate to the environment to ensure it remains secure and accessible for inspection and maintenance.
6.4 Wiring, Connections, and Zoning
- Power supply – The DSCU-EN operates from a 12–36 V DC power supply, suitable for the site environment.
- Cable selection – Only Thermocable ProReact EN Digital Linear Heat Detection cable is used for detection zones.
- Cable testing – Cable integrity is typically verified prior to connection.
- End-of-line (EOL) unit resistor – It must be installed after the final detection point on the cable run.
- Each detection zone is supervised using a 3.6 kΩ end-of-line resistor.
- Where only one zone is used, the resistor remains fitted to the unused zone terminals.
- Cable glands – Cable glands are tightened to ensure a secure, moisture-resistant seal.
- No T-connections – Detection circuits are continuous. T-connections or spur configurations are not used.
- Avoid splicing – Splices are minimised and, where unavoidable, enclosed within manufacturer-approved junction boxes with appropriate environmental protection.
- Manual call point placement – Wireless manual call points are typically installed at access and egress points, including scaffold lifts, and report back to a WES Connect unit in line with the site evacuation strategy.
- Direct or leader cable – Detection cable may be connected directly to the DSCU-EN or via a leader cable where the control unit is located remotely.
- Maximum zone length – The maximum total length per detection zone, including any leader cable, is 1,000 m (3,280 ft).
- Zone inputs – Up to two detection zones may be connected to a single DSCU-EN in accordance with the wiring diagram.
6.5 Fitting the EOL-EN Unit
- EndofLine (EOL) device is a fixed resistance component fitted at the end of each Linear Heat Detection (LHD) cable zone.
- Its role is to allow the DSCUEN to continuously supervise the integrity of the detection circuit.
- Implemented 3.6 kΩ EndofLine resistor.
6.6 Operating Mode Selection
Independent mode
- Each zone operates independently. Faults or alarms on one zone do not affect the other.
Interlock mode
- Alarm output is generated only when both zones detect an overheat condition.
- Where interlock mode is used, identical cable types and activation temperatures are typically specified for both zones.
6.7 Configuration and Commissioning
- Power up – On power-up, the DSCU-EN displays software revision information and configuration options.
- Configuration – New installations are typically configured using the “New Configs” option.
- Existing configurations may be loaded where applicable.
- Operating mode – Independent or Interlock mode is selected based on project requirements.
- Cable type – Alarm temperature is selected for each zone (68 °C, 78 °C, or 88 °C).
- Leader cable calibration – Where leader cable is used, calibration is carried out in line with on-screen prompts.
- Latching outputs – Alarm outputs may be configured as latching, requiring manual or power reset, where specified.
- Modbus setup – RS-485 Modbus communications may be enabled and configured where required, including address and communication parameters.
6.8 Testing and Verification
- Self-test mode – The self-test function is used to verify normal, alarm, and fault conditions without activating the detection cable.
- Verify outputs – Alarm and fault outputs are verified to ensure correct operation and response by connected systems.
- Exit self-test – The system is returned to normal operation following completion of testing.
6.9 Normal Operation
Status display
In normal operation, the display shows:
- Zone 1: OK
- Zone 2: OK
Alarm and fault indication
If triggered, the display indicates the affected zone and the distance to the activation point, along with relevant alarm or fault indicators.
6.10 Maintenance and Reset
Regular inspection
- Routine inspections focus on cable integrity, fixings, connections, and overall system status.
Resetting the unit
- Where required, the DSCU-EN may be reset to factory defaults via the control interface by trained personnel.
6.11 Documentation
Record keeping
- Configuration settings, calibration values, test results, and zone layouts should be documented and retained for future reference.
7. Safety Notices and Limitations
7.1 Scope and Limitations
This document:
- Describes system components, operating principles, and integration behaviour
- Does not replace Thermocable installation manuals or project-specific fire strategies
- Does not define exact cable routing, fixing methods, spacing, or evacuation procedures
Where any discrepancy exists, manufacturer documentation and the site fire strategy take precedence.
7.2 Important Notice and Disclaimer
This document provides general technical guidance only. Installation, configuration, commissioning, and maintenance must be carried out by competent persons in accordance with manufacturer documentation, applicable standards, and site-specific risk assessments.
This guide does not define evacuation procedures or emergency response actions, which remain the responsibility of the duty holder.
8. Related Documents
- Thermocable ProReact EN Digital datasheets
- DSCU-EN Installation and Operation Manual
- Ramtech WES3 Operation Manual
- REACT QSG
- Troubleshooting Quick Guide
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