Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between electronic and pneumatic fire suppression systems?
Pneumatic fire suppression systems utilise pressurised detection tubing as a method of fire detection. The detection tubing is pressurised with nitrogen and designed to rupure locally when exposed to the heat generated by a fire.
Electronic fire suppression systems use electronic methods of detection, like the Ardent Linear Heat Detection cable. These electronic systems can differentiate between the signal from a damaged cable and the signal caused by a fire, resulting in fewer false discharges.
Why should I use a Dual Agent System?
Where possible, we always recommend the use of dual agent systems to protect mobile equipment against the risk of fire.
This is because, although the dry chemical suppression agent provides effective knock-down and coverage, the cooling capabilities of dry chemical are limited. For many plant, components like turbochargers and exhaust manifolds become superheated during normal operation, posing a risk of fire re-ignition afer the system is discharged. Wet chemical agent is specified to reduce the temperature of these components to below the auto-ignition temperature of diesel, significantly recudes the chances of reigniton.
What's the difference between full hazard coverage and engine compartment coverage?
Engine protection, also referred to as volume protection, refers to the design of systems to cover hazards within the volume of the engine compartment. This method of protecting machines means that hazards located outside the engine compartment are not protected. The system design is based on the volume of the protected area, and the amount of agent and number of nozzles required to protect this area.
On average, over 25% of fires in heavy mobile equipment originate outside of the engine compartment, so neglecting fire hazards outside the engine compartment puts you and your business at risk of fire. This is why Ardent recommends full hazard protection, which considers hazards outside of the engine compartment in addition to those within. These hazards can include the transmission, battery compartment, belly pan or high-pressure hoses and hydraulic pumps. The fire hazard identification process identifies the areas within the plant that pose a fire risk, and the system design is based on this.
Why does a fire sometimes reignite after it is suppressed?
Components within mobile plant, such as the turbocharger and exhaust manifold, often operate at extremely high temperatures. Many fires are caused by burst hydraulic or fuel lines, which spray onto these superheated components and ignite. A dry chemical fire suppression system will detect this fire and discharge, suppressing the fire.
The risk of re-ignition comes from the superheated components. If the flammable liquids continue to spray onto superheated components, this can lead to re-ignition.
What is included in a Machine Fire Hazard Identification?
Our Fire Hazard Identification process is comprehensive, looking at the machine, environment and operation.
You can read about our Fire Hazard Identification process here.
Do you offer training on how to use the systems for operators?
We offer flexible operator training to meet your requirements.
Can you protect electric vehicles with Ardent Fire Suppression Systems?
Yeah, our dry chemical suppression agent is suitable for the protection of electric vehicles.