Heat Flame Sensor

KY-026 Heat Flame Sensor
At the heart of this module is an IR-sensitive phototransistor (often the YG1006). It is specifically tuned to be most sensitive to wavelengths between 760nm and 1100nm, which is the primary spectrum for fire radiation. When IR light from a flame hits the black epoxy bulb of the sensor, it allows current to flow, which the module converts into a measurable signal.

 
Why it’s a Robotics and Safety Essential:
• Directional Detection: With a detection angle of approximately 60°, this sensor is excellent for pinpointing where a fire is located. By using multiple sensors in a "fan" array, a robot can navigate toward or away from a fire with high precision.
• Dual Output Utility:
o Analog (A0): Provides a voltage that changes as the flame gets closer or larger. This is perfect for determining the "intensity" of the fire in your code.
o Digital (D0): Acts as a high-speed trigger. The onboard LM393 comparator flips the output the moment a flame is detected, which can trigger an immediate interrupt on your microcontroller.
• Adjustable Sensitivity: The onboard potentiometer allows you to tune out "background noise" (like sunlight or strong indoor lighting) so the sensor only reacts to an actual fire source.
• Instant Response: Because it uses light rather than heat or chemicals, the response time is nearly instantaneous.

 
Technical Capabilities:
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V (making it compatible with both Arduino and ESP32).
• Detection Range: Can detect a standard flame from roughly 20cm to 100cm depending on the size of the fire and the sensitivity setting.
• Signal LEDs: Includes a "Power" LED and a "Signal" LED that lights up the moment the digital threshold is crossed, making it easy to calibrate without looking at a serial monitor.

 
Best For:
The KY-026 is the primary choice for firefighting robots, industrial furnace monitors, domestic fire alarms, and flame-activated security systems.