Strade e Autostrade magazine feature
We’re proud to share that Bandweaver’s fiber optic fire detection technology has been prominently featured in Strade e Autostrade, Italy’s leading infrastructure magazine, as part of a high-profile tunnel modernisation project commissioned by Anas in the Lombardy region.
Working in close collaboration with long-standing partners R.A.E.T. and S.C. Automazione (part of the VN Group), our FireLaser Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) systems were selected for a series of critical tunnel safety upgrades across multiple road tunnels in northern Italy.
“The real strength of the work carried out… was the possibility of integrating [the FireLaser control units] with existing PLCs, thus not requiring the customer to carry out further interventions and, in fact, optimising costs.”
– Strade e Autostrade, 2024
A scalable, non-disruptive upgrade path
Porlezza Tunnel side entrance
The project began with a technical validation phase three years ago, when R.A.E.T. supplied initial systems for evaluation. Following highly successful testing, the solution was adopted across a growing number of Anas-operated tunnels, including Lezzeno (SS36), Sant’Antonio (SS38), and Santo Stefano (SS42).
A key requirement from Anas was to enhance fire detection without requiring major civil works or tunnel closures. This was made possible by two unique strengths of Bandweaver’s FireLaser technology:
- Remote system integration: FireLaser control units were installed in existing electrical cabins located outside the tunnels.
- Utilisation of existing optical fiber infrastructure: Eliminating the need to install new cables or shut down tunnel sections.
Why FireLaser was selected
Bandweaver’s FireLaser DTS systems were chosen for their proven performance in harsh tunnel environments. Specific benefits highlighted include:
- High-speed temperature acquisition
- Large number of programmable detection zones
- Immunity to tunnel airflow, dust, humidity, and exhaust fumes
- Precise location detection across long distances
These capabilities ensure operators receive fast, accurate alerts to even the earliest signs of fire, allowing intervention before conditions escalate.
Custom software and rapid implementation
S.C. Automazione played a pivotal role in delivering seamless integration, providing customised software solutions to connect FireLaser systems with existing tunnel PLCs and infrastructure. Thanks to this approach, entire tunnel fire systems can now be restored or upgraded within a single day.
Improving safety without compromising operations
This project represents a forward-looking model for tunnel operators: delivering enhanced fire safety without large-scale retrofits or operational impact. By enabling modern sensing with minimal disruption, the FireLaser system is helping organisations like Anas achieve both resilience and operational efficiency.
We’re proud to support VN Group and Anas in this strategic effort to modernise Italy’s transport infrastructure and protect the lives of those who use it.
To read the full feature in Italian in Strade e Autostrade, visit: https://www.calameo.com/read/007784916c1887aed50b8
For more information about Bandweaver’s FireLaser fire detection system, contact us here.