Perimeter security in high EMF environments

October 2019 Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection

Electromagnetic Field (EMF) interference at power stations poses a formidable task for many perimeter detection systems due to the extremely high EMF produced by extra high tension (EHT) overhead cables from these plants which connect to the national grid. Electromagnetic Induction (EMI) is the production of voltage or an electromotive force due to a changing magnetic field, this is produced by EHT lines feeding to or from generation or distribution points on the national grid.


EHT Lines over fence.

When electrical or electronic equipment operates in an extreme EMF environment, the effect of the induction can play havoc with the proper function of security equipment. The effect can be exacerbated where long lengths of cable are connected to electronic equipment. However, if due care is taken with the installation, systems can work as intended, operating normally.

For this to happen the installation needs to be properly earthed and effectively (electrically) screened from this EMF. Equally important for proper system functionality is the design of the equipment and its ability to withstand certain levels of environmental EMI and then also, by filtering, to inhibit or attenuate EMI in the frequency bands they occur and the harmonics of these bands.

Proper earthing points need to be in place and, in most cases, especially designed earth mats at these types of generating plants or power distribution hubs exist. So, the proper earthing and bonding of the perimeter fence is critical for the reduction of EMI on the AcoustAlert sensor cables which are fixed to the perimeter fence. The AcoustAlert field processor also employs filtering of unwanted EMI and their harmonics. The result is AcoustAlert works as intended on the perimeter security fence of power generation plants or distribution yards.

AcoustAlert was installed at such a plant in Port Elizabeth 10 months ago and operates normally with no false alarms as a result of possible EMI interference. In addition, it has operated without fault over this period.

AcoustAlert perimeter intrusion detection forms part of our layered approach to security solutions for key point installations.


Credit(s)




Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page



Further reading:

Olarm launches the Olarm LINK
Olarm Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection News Products
Building on the success of smart-enabling, monitoring and controlling alarm panels and electric fences, Olarm has a new solution for customers to integrate gates, garage doors, pumps and other electrical products with the Olarm APP and Olarm PRO communicator.

Read more...
Ultimate smart monitoring and reliability
Olarm Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection News Products
Olarm is gearing up to unveil its latest product, the Olarm MAX, set to be available in late 2023, which will redefine smart monitoring by offering unparalleled connectivity options and functionality.

Read more...
New distributed acoustic sensors in EMEA
Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Products
OPTEX introduces new EchoPoint Distributed Acoustic Sensors (DAS) for advanced point location intrusion detection, using intelligent detection algorithms to provide point detection of +/- 6 m in a range of up to 100 km.

Read more...
Matt De Araujo joins Ajax Systems
Ajax Systems News Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection
Matt De Araujo has joined Ajax Systems as Head of Sales in sub-Saharan Africa with a goal to strengthen the local team and exceed expectations.

Read more...
RDC expands its production capabilities
Radio Data Communications Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Products
Local electronics manufacturer, RDC, recently acquired a new SMT (surface mount technology) machine to boost its manufacturing output and meet the needs of its global customer base.

Read more...
Invisible connection and tangible protection via cloud
Dahua Technology South Africa Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection CCTV, Surveillance & Remote Monitoring Products
Dahua Technology has launched its AirShield security solution that uses advanced, stable and reliable RF communication technology and cloud services, integrating alarm hubs, various detectors and accessories, with several software apps.

Read more...
Protecting perimeters and open spaces
XtraVision Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection
XtraVision provides some insight into the use of drone technology with the SAMM Fotas fibre detection systems to secure perimeters and other remote assets and locations.

Read more...
Perimeter intrusion detection
Dark Horse Distribution Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Mining (Industry) Products
Dark Horse Distribution offers Senstar’s, above and below ground perimeter protection solutions, incorporating advanced algorithms to reduce false alarms while providing early warning of intrusion attempts.

Read more...
Gallagher achieves SOC2 Type 2 certification
Gallagher Access Control & Identity Management Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Products
Gallagher announced it has achieved System and Organization Controls (SOC2 Type 2) certification for the cloud-hosted services of its flagship security solution, Command Centre.

Read more...
New Partner Manager covering Gauteng for Olarm
Olarm News Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection
Phillip Pretorius recently joined Olarm as an additional Partner Manager covering Gauteng and the surrounding areas with the goal of enhancing Olarm’s ability to deliver services to its partners and clients in the region.

Read more...