Automatic fire-suppression system with GPS option
HEAVY quarry machines working off road in hazardous areas are generally very reliable, but parts can fail and flammable debris can build up within the engine compartment where the heat of the engine and exhaust system can ignite leaking fluid or dry material, leading to a fire.
While most machines are equipped with manually operated fire extinguishers that work well in the hands of an experienced operator, a machine fire can sometimes grow too large to control by the time the operator becomes aware of it.
However, the Flexitec automatic fire-suppression system, which has been specifically designed for use in harsh off-road environments, provides an affordable and easy-to-install solution to this potential hazard, say its manufacturers and suppliers, Flameskill.
According to the company, retrofitting of the totally independent Flexitec system is uncomplicated and suitable for DIY installers. By locating the system’s flexible red polymer detection tube in those areas at greatest risk, Flexitec is designed to be right at the seat of the problem in the event of a fire.
Should flames come in to contact with the polymer tube, it is designed to rupture at the precise point of contact, automatically releasing extinguishing agent and suppressing the fire much faster than would be possible by manual intervention.
In addition, operators and key team members can be alerted to occurrence of an incident by the Flexitec system’s optional GPS tracking device, which will send texts and emails with a grid reference if the system is activated. Moreover, in the event of plant theft, the GPS system can be used to track the stolen machine.
According to Flameskill, the Flexitec system is suitable for many other applications, such as automatic fire protection for on-site communications and IT systems, and for the protection of control cabinets in unmanned remote areas.
