Cargo Hold Smoke Detection System: Early Fire Detection for Critical Ship Compartments

Cargo holds are among the most vulnerable areas onboard ships when it comes to fire risk. Due to their large volume, limited accessibility, and the nature of stored goods, early fire detection is crucial to avoid disaster. At Serden Ship Supply Marine Electric & Electronics Ltd., we design, supply, and install Cargo Hold Smoke Detection Systems that provide reliable and accurate smoke detection in the earliest stages of combustion—before it becomes uncontrollable.

Our systems are class-approved, SOLAS-compliant, and custom-configured for your vessel’s specific cargo layout and operational needs.

 Why Do You Need a Smoke Detection System in Cargo Holds?

Fires in cargo holds can be catastrophic. Often carrying flammable, chemical, or high-density goods, holds are difficult to monitor manually. A well-engineered smoke detection system provides:

• Early warning for fire or smoldering materials

• Real-time alerts to the bridge and ECR

• Automatic activation of alarms or fire suppression systems

• Reduced response time, potentially saving the ship and crew

• Compliance with SOLAS and IMO regulations

 System Components We Provide

We offer complete solutions tailored to your vessel, including:

• Aspiration (sampling) smoke detectors (VESDA-type systems)

• Smoke sampling tubes and manifolds for cargo holds

• Smoke detection control panels (addressable or conventional)

• Bridge interface panels and alarm indicators

• Alarm sounders and visual strobes

• Remote test and calibration ports

• System monitoring with diagnostic alerts

Systems can be configured for single or multi-hold layouts, and include fail-safe features such as dual sampling points, auto-purge units, and filter replacements.

 How the System Works

1. Air samples are continuously drawn from cargo holds through sampling pipes using a central aspiration fan.

2. These samples are analyzed in a high-sensitivity smoke detector.

3. If smoke particles exceed a predefined threshold, an alarm is triggered and sent to the bridge.

4. The crew can then take action—activate suppression, isolate the area, or initiate emergency protocols.

Unlike standard point detectors, aspirating systems function reliably even in dusty, humid, or cold environments—ideal for cargo holds.

 Suitable for Various Cargo Types

Our systems are suitable for:

• Bulk cargo (coal, grain, cement, ores)

• General cargo

• Containerized goods

• Flammable liquids or chemicals

• Reefer cargo with power supplies

• Livestock or high-risk cargo zones

We adjust the system design based on cargo type, ventilation system, hold size, and environmental conditions.

 Compliance & Class Approval

All Serden Cargo Hold Smoke Detection Systems are:

• SOLAS Chapter II-2 compliant

• IMO MSC.1/Circ.1370 and FSS Code (Chapter 10) compliant

•  Certified by DNV, BV, ABS, RINA, LR, ClassNK

•  Tested to IEC 60092-504 and IEC 61000-6-2/4 EMC standards

We provide:

• Type approval certificates

• FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) reports

• Class inspection documentation

• Alarm & event log integration

• System manuals and wiring diagrams

 Installation & Integration Services

Our full turnkey scope includes:

• System design based on vessel GA plans

• Routing of sampling pipes inside holds

• Mounting of control panels in safe zones

• Wiring, testing, and calibration

• Integration with ship’s fire alarm and automation systems

• Bridge control interface and alarm testing

• Class survey and documentation handover

• Crew training for testing and maintenance

 Optional Smart Features

• Remote access and cloud-based monitoring

• Integration with VDR (Voyage Data Recorder)

• Smoke detection analytics and trend reporting

• Sensor health diagnostics

• System event log and maintenance alerts

 Vessel Types We Serve

Our cargo hold smoke detection solutions are ideal for:

• Bulk carriers

• Container ships

• Ro-Ro vessels

• LNG and LPG carriers

• General cargo vessels

• Heavy lift and project cargo ships

Every solution is tailored to your ship’s structure, operation, and classification requirements.

 Global Support & Spare Parts

Serden provides:

• Worldwide delivery and installation

• 24/7 technical support and remote diagnostics

• System troubleshooting and sensor calibration

• Spare parts (filters, sensors, fans, tubing, controllers)

• Annual inspection and maintenance plans

 Why Serden?

•  30+ years of marine fire detection expertise

•  Certified, class-approved equipment

•  Experienced in cargo hold system design and pipe routing

•  Global installation and technical support

•  Integrated with AMS and fire suppression systems

•  Fast part replacement and preventive maintenance options

Cargo safety is critical. With Serden’s Cargo Hold Smoke Detection Systems, you gain peace of mind, regulatory compliance, and fast emergency response.

 Secure Your Cargo — Before Smoke Turns Into Fire

Need a reliable smoke detection system for your vessel’s cargo holds? Contact Serden today for a class-compliant, tailored solution delivered by experts.