Teledyne FLIR, a subsidiary of Teledyne Technologies (NYSE: TDY), announced that its FLIR A40, A50, and A70 thermal imaging cameras have received UL 2684 listing, which the company claims makes them the first thermal imagers to achieve this classification.

The UL 2684 listing allows the Axx-Series cameras to be incorporated into fire detection systems designed in accordance with NFPA 72, a national fire alarm and signaling code. Previously, thermal imaging cameras were primarily used for preventative maintenance and condition monitoring rather than certified fire detection applications.

The cameras detect abnormal heat signatures before smoke or flames develop and can initiate fire alarm events through compatible control systems when predefined alarm conditions are met. A single camera can monitor multiple assets or large areas, which Teledyne FLIR says simplifies system design for data centers, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and utility and energy infrastructure.

"For the first time, thermal imaging can be incorporated into code-compliant fire detection systems using cameras specifically evaluated to this standard," said Mattias Walan, General Manager of Advanced and Integrated Solutions at Teledyne FLIR.

Unlike conventional smoke or heat detectors, which generally respond after combustion has begun, the Axx-Series cameras continuously monitor equipment and assets for developing thermal anomalies.