TOCONs For Flame And Fire Detection – TOCON_C1UVC
The TOCON_C1UVC from SGLUX GmbH is a specialized UVC photodetector tailored for flame and fire detection applications....
TOCONs For Flame And Fire Detection – TOCON_C1UVC
The TOCON_C1UVC from SGLUX GmbH is a specialized UVC photodetector tailored for flame and fire detection applications. Using a robust Silicon Carbide (SiC) photodiode and an integrated low-noise transimpedance amplifier, it delivers a 0–5 V DC output proportional to UVC irradiance. Packaged in a TO-5 hermetically sealed metal housing with a diffuser or window to broaden field-of-view, it efficiently detects low-level flame emissions. Its designed sensitivity range spans from ultra-low irradiance (pW/cm²) up to moderate UVC intensities without saturation, enabling detection of nascent flame or flame failure events. With performance parameters aligned with SGLUX’s TOCON_C1 line (saturation ~180 nW/cm², resolution ~18 pW/cm²) sglux+2jinzon.com.tw+2, the TOCON_C1UVC is ideal for industrial burners, safety interlocks, and fire detection systems in harsh environments.
Understanding TOCONs For Flame And Fire Detection - TOCON_C1UVC
The TOCON_C1UVC applies a 1 mm² SiC UVC photodiode optimized for wavelengths near ~275 nm, where flame emissions are strong. Its internal amplifier converts tiny UVC signals into a stable 0–5 V voltage output, requiring no external amplification. The hermetic TO-5 packaging with diffuser ensures wide angular coverage, essential for flame detection across different orientations. The design supports both detection of extremely low radiant power (~tens of pW/cm²) and resistance to moderate UVC levels before saturation. This enables fast, reliable detection and response in flame safety control, replacing older discharge-tube sensors with a compact semiconductor solution.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Function | UVC photodetector for flame / fire detection with integrated amplifier |
| Detector Type | Silicon Carbide (SiC) photodiode, ~1 mm² active area |
| Spectral Sensitivity Range | ~ 225 – 287 nm (UVC band) |
| Peak Wavelength | ~ 275 nm |
| Output Signal | 0 – 5 V DC (linear in irradiance) |
| Resolution (Min Irradiance) | ~ 18 pW/cm² (typical TOCON_C1 class) |
| Saturation (Max Irradiance) | ~ 180 nW/cm² at 254 nm (typical TOCON_C1 performance) |
| Housing | TO-5 hermetically sealed metal package with diffuser / field-of-view optics |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V DC (or ± rails if required by variant) |
| Operating Temperature | –25 … +85 °C (standard) |
| Response Time | Fast — optimized for flame detection switching |
| Applications | Industrial burner flame detection, fire alarm systems, safety interlocks |
Key Features and Advantages
High Sensitivity in UVC Band
TOCON_C1UVC is engineered for maximum sensitivity in the deep UV (UVC) region, where flame emissions are strong and relatively free of ambient interference. The large 1 mm² SiC chip enables detection of very faint flame signals.
Wide Field-of-View Design
Using diffuser optics or a broad acceptance angle, the detector ensures reliable flame detection even when the flame is not perfectly aligned with the sensor—critical in industrial installations.
Integrated Amplifier Output
Its internal low-noise amplifier converts photocurrent directly to a 0–5 V voltage output, simplifying interface to controllers, PLCs, or safety modules without extra signal-conditioning hardware.
Broad Dynamic Range
With a lower detection limit in the picowatt/cm² region and an upper limit of ~180 nW/cm² before saturation (in TOCON_C1 class), the sensor covers both weak ignition events and moderate flame brightness.
Rapid Response for Safety
Optimised for flame detection, the sensor aims for fast rise/fall times enabling swift detection of flame presence or failure, essential for safety interlocks and shutdown systems.
Robust Packaging
The TO-5 hermetic metal housing protects against moisture, dust, EMI, and harsh environments. The UVC-transparent window or diffuser ensures stable spectral fidelity and reliability over time.
UVC-Only Sensitivity (Visible-Blind)
By focusing solely on the UVC spectrum and rejecting visible/IR wavelengths, the sensor minimises false triggers from ambient light, ensuring that only true flame emissions generate output.
Overall, TOCON_C1UVC offers a compact, robust, and sensitive semiconductor alternative to traditional UV flame sensors, merging speed, precision, and ease-of-integration for industrial fire detection systems.
Applications Across Industries
Industrial Burner and Combustion Controls
In gas, oil, or hydrogen-fired burners, TOCON_C1UVC monitors flame presence continuously. On loss of flame, systems can immediately shut down fuel supply, ensuring safe operation.
Fire Alarm & Suppression Systems
It can be used as a sensor input in fire detection systems for industrial zones or enclosures where direct flame UV detection is feasible, improving alarm responsiveness.
Replacement for Discharge Tube UV Sensors
Conventional flame sensors using discharge tubes suffer from wear, high startup voltages, and failure modes. TOCON_C1UVC provides a solid-state alternative that is more reliable and compact.
Hydrogen Flame Detection
Hydrogen flames emit strongly in UVC. This sensor is especially suitable for upcoming hydrogen-based systems where traditional flame sensors may be inadequate.
Safety Interlocks in Process Equipment
Used in kilns, furnaces, boilers, and incinerators to ensure combustion integrity. A lost flame triggers emergency shutdowns, preventing unburned fuel release or explosion risk.
Flame Presence Verification in Gas-Fired Appliances
In HVAC systems, industrial ovens, and burners, the sensor provides flame confirmation feedback to controllers or building management systems.
By combining robust UVC sensitivity, fast response, and visible-blind selectivity, TOCON_C1UVC is ideal for modern flame-detection systems, enhancing safety and reliability across industrial, energy, and process sectors.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
-
Exclusive Indian distributor of SGLUX flame-detection TOCONs
-
Deep expertise in integrating UV flame sensors into industrial safety systems
-
Provision of factory calibration, application support, and technical data
-
On-the-ground service, installation assistance, and calibration renewal across India
-
Support in selecting matching sensitivity (suffix) for your flame intensity levels
FAQs
What spectral range does it cover?
It focuses on ~225 to 287 nm (UVC band), optimized near 275 nm.
What are its sensitivity limits?
Expected resolution ~18 pW/cm²; saturation ~180 nW/cm² (in TOCON_C1 class).
Does it require an external amplifier?
No — it includes an integrated amplifier providing directly the 0–5 V output.
How fast is the response?
Designed for rapid rise/fall times suitable for flame detection (exact ms depend on irradiance).
Can it operate outdoors with sunlight around?
Because of UVC-only detection and inherent visible-light rejection, ambient UV-A/B from sunlight has less effect. Still, shielding or optical filters may be needed depending on placement.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Have a Project in Mind ? Let’s Talk
FAQs
What spectral range does it cover?
It focuses on ~225 to 287 nm (UVC band), optimized near 275 nm.
What are its sensitivity limits?
Expected resolution ~18 pW/cm²; saturation ~180 nW/cm² (in TOCON_C1 class).
Does it require an external amplifier?
No — it includes an integrated amplifier providing directly the 0–5 V output.
How fast is the response?
Designed for rapid rise/fall times suitable for flame detection (exact ms depend on irradiance).
Can it operate outdoors with sunlight around?
Because of UVC-only detection and inherent visible-light rejection, ambient UV-A/B from sunlight has less effect. Still, shielding or optical filters may be needed depending on placement.

