How to Use flame sensor: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Flame Sensor (Manufacturer: Zadetector, Part ID: 220v) is a device designed to detect the presence of fire or flames by sensing the infrared (IR) radiation emitted by the flame. It is a critical component in fire alarm systems, industrial safety systems, and other applications requiring early detection of fire hazards. The sensor is highly sensitive to IR wavelengths typically emitted by flames, making it an effective tool for fire detection.

• Fire alarm systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings
• Gas stove flame monitoring
• Industrial safety systems for detecting accidental fires
• Robotics and automation systems for fire detection
• Early warning systems in hazardous environments

The following table outlines the key technical details of the Zadetector Flame Sensor (Part ID: 220v):

The flame sensor module typically has three pins. The table below describes each pin:

1. Power the Sensor: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
2. Connect the Output:
   • For digital output, connect the OUT pin to a digital input pin of your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino).
   • For analog output, connect the OUT pin to an analog input pin of your microcontroller.
3. Position the Sensor: Place the sensor in a location where it has a clear line of sight to the flame. Ensure the detection angle (60°) is sufficient for your application.
4. Read the Output:
   • For digital output, the sensor will output HIGH (5V) when a flame is detected and LOW (0V) when no flame is present.
   • For analog output, the voltage will vary proportionally to the intensity of the flame.

• Avoid exposing the sensor to direct sunlight or other strong IR sources, as this may cause false positives.
• Ensure the sensor is not obstructed by objects that could block the IR radiation from the flame.
• Use appropriate pull-up or pull-down resistors if required by your circuit design.
• Regularly clean the sensor lens to maintain optimal performance.

Below is an example of how to connect and use the flame sensor with an Arduino UNO:

• VCC: Connect to the 5V pin on the Arduino.
• GND: Connect to the GND pin on the Arduino.
• OUT: Connect to digital pin 2 on the Arduino.

// Flame Sensor Example Code
// This code reads the digital output of the flame sensor and turns on an LED
// when a flame is detected.

const int flameSensorPin = 2; // Digital pin connected to the flame sensor OUT pin
const int ledPin = 13;        // Built-in LED pin on Arduino

void setup() {
  pinMode(flameSensorPin, INPUT); // Set flame sensor pin as input
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);        // Set LED pin as output
  Serial.begin(9600);             // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  int flameDetected = digitalRead(flameSensorPin); // Read the flame sensor output

  if (flameDetected == HIGH) {
    // Flame detected
    digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Turn on the LED
    Serial.println("Flame detected!");
  } else {
    // No flame detected
    digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);  // Turn off the LED
    Serial.println("No flame detected.");
  }

  delay(500); // Wait for 500ms before the next reading
}

1. False Positives (Flame Detected When No Flame is Present):

   • Cause: Strong IR sources (e.g., sunlight, incandescent bulbs) interfering with the sensor.
   • Solution: Shield the sensor from external IR sources or use it in a controlled environment.

2. No Detection of Flame:

   • Cause: Incorrect positioning of the sensor or blocked line of sight.
   • Solution: Ensure the sensor is properly aligned with the flame and has a clear line of sight.

3. Unstable Output:

   • Cause: Electrical noise or unstable power supply.
   • Solution: Use decoupling capacitors near the sensor's power pins to stabilize the power supply.

Q1: Can the flame sensor detect flames through glass?
A1: No, most glass materials block IR radiation, so the sensor may not detect flames through glass.

Q2: What is the maximum distance for flame detection?
A2: The detection range depends on the intensity of the flame and environmental conditions. Typically, the sensor can detect flames up to 1 meter away.

Q3: Can I use the flame sensor outdoors?
A3: While the sensor can be used outdoors, it should be protected from direct sunlight, rain, and dust to ensure reliable operation.

Q4: Is the sensor compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers?
A4: Yes, the sensor operates at 3.3V to 5V, making it compatible with both 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers.