Fire safety in complex and high-risk environments demands solutions that go beyond basic compliance, and Kentec Electronics continues to push that boundary. The company’s latest developments demonstrate how technology can address evolving risks while simplifying long-term maintenance for installers and end users alike.
One of the standout innovations is K-Detect-iON, a hydrogen gas detector designed specifically for battery energy storage systems (BESS). These installations are becoming increasingly common as renewable energy grows, but the potential for off-gassing and fire in lithium-ion batteries presents a serious safety challenge. K-Detect-iON tackles this by sensing hydrogen at the earliest possible stage, enabling automatic responses before ignition can occur.
Unlike traditional gas detectors that require periodic calibration, K-Detect-iON is calibration-free, offering up to 10 years of maintenance-free operation. Its ability to function reliably across a wide temperature range, from -30°C to 75°C, makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Just as importantly, it’s the only sensor of its kind to carry UL 2075 certification, ensuring that it meets stringent global performance and safety standards.
Derrick Hall, Director of Sales & Marketing at Kentec (pictured), says, “Our mission has always been to deliver technology that not only meets, but anticipates, the evolving needs of our industry.”
Kentec has also taken a whole-system approach to BESS fire safety. Its detectors, control panels, and ancillary devices are certified and listed together, ensuring interoperability and compliance across the system. The configuration includes the UL 864-approved panel, UL 268-approved smoke detector, and the K-Detect-iON hydrogen sensor, which is cross-referenced against the panel’s own certification. This unified approach removes uncertainty for system designers and operators who must navigate evolving regulatory frameworks in energy storage safety.
Another area of focus for Kentec is the integration of public address and voice alarm (PA/VA) systems within its fire control infrastructure. The latest version of the Taktis fire control panel, compliant with EN 54-2 and BS 7273-4 Category A standards, now supports K-System, Kentec’s wired addressable fire detection platform. This enables end users to manage detection, alarm, and voice evacuation from a single, cohesive system.
K-System was developed in response to global market demand for single-branded but open-protocol solutions, offering flexibility without sacrificing manufacturer support. Available exclusively through Kentec Installation Partners (KIPs) and Kentec Authorised Distributors Plus (KAD+), the system is backed by Kentec’s recognised strengths in technical support and training, helping installers and specifiers deliver consistent, high-quality performance.
“It’s not just technology: we are investing in the skills and experience to further establish Kentec as a market leader. Only this year Kentec’s experience was recognised with the appointment of its managing director, Kevin Swann, as Global Strategy Director to shape global market and commercial strategy for Hochiki Corporation. More recently, Gaurav Arora was appointed as General Manager, Product Management and Technical Support to strengthen service, support and training”, Derrick continued. “Every person and solution behind the brand visitors see at Intersec 2026 reflects our commitment to safeguarding people and property through reliability, compliance, and innovation.”
These developments underline Kentec’s broader mission: to anticipate emerging challenges in fire safety while ensuring that compliance, integration, and reliability remain central to every product.
All of these innovations – from advanced hydrogen detection to fully integrated PA/VA systems – will be demonstrated at Intersec 2026, taking place from 12–14 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, where Kentec will be exhibiting on stand E22.