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Cargo Smoke Detection
There are 5 sets of 2 smoke detectors (photo-electric), 2 sets in the forward compartment, 2 in the aft, and 1 in the bulk cargo compartment. Each of the 2 detectors in a set is connected to 1 of the 2 detection loops. The SDCU acquires the signals and sends them to the FWC. Controls and indications are on the CARGO SMOKE overhead panel.
There are 2 fire extinguishing bottles in the forward cargo compartment. Bottle 1 is discharged within 60s. Bottle 2 has a slow discharge rate over approximately 260 minutes. (285 A340) Both bottles are fired at the same time. Each bottle can be discharged into either:
- the forward cargo zone, via 2 nozzles; or
- the aft/bulk cargo zone, via 2 nozzles in the aft compartment or 1 nozzle in the bulk compartment. The aft and bulk cargo zones are separated only by a cargo net.
If smoke is detected, the cargo inlet and outlet isolation valves are automatically closed to isolate the compartment. These valves are not on the ECAM COND page. As the smoke detectors are sensitive to the extinguishing agent, the smoke warning may remain even if the source is extinguished.