Fuelling the future safely
Published by Alfie Lloyd-Perks,
Assistant Editor
World Cement,
Fire and explosion incidents in the manufacturing, handling, and storage of alternative fuels (AFs) often have significant impacts, potentially causing prolonged production shutdowns and incurring high costs. Addressing these hazards requires a combination of advanced preventive and protective systems to ensure safety and operational continuity. Firefly’s industrial solutions follow this approach, integrating technologies designed to detect and mitigate fire risks effectively.
Early detection and intervention
Preventive systems
Preventive systems are the first line of defence against fire incidents. These systems are designed to detect and extinguish ignition sources before a fire or explosion can occur. Firefly offers two solutions in this category: spark and hot particle detection, and the Multi-Gas Detector (MGD), also known as the ‘electronic nose’.
Firefly’s detectors use lead sulfide (PbS) sensors, which are insensitive to light, ensuring accurate detection of sparks and overheated particles even in challenging environments. These detectors can identify ignition sources early, allowing the system to intervene before a fire starts. This early detection is crucial in preventing potential disasters and maintaining the safety and efficiency of the production process.
The MGD represents a sophisticated approach to fire prevention. It analyses the density and composition of combustion gases, identifying fires at a very early stage. This method is based on the principle that gas release is the initial stage of combustion, occurring before visible flames or significant heat generation. The MGD can detect this early-stage gas release, triggering alarms and initiating preventive measures to avoid ignition.
Rapid response to emerging threats
Protective systems
Firefly’s protective systems respond rapidly, effectively safeguarding equipment and minimising production downtime. These systems are tailored to specific applications within the industrial process, ensuring comprehensive protection across various operational areas.
Shredder protection
To protect shredders, which are prone to fires due to the nature of their operation, the ShredderGuard™ solution was developed. This system combines flame detection, True IR detection, water extinguishing, and mist suppression. It is designed to withstand the harsh conditions around shredders, providing rapid suppression and preventing fire spread.
Conveyor protection
Conveyors, another critical component in industrial operations, are protected by the ConveyorGuard™ solution. This system includes long-range optical flame detection and rapid-action mist suppression, proven effective for both open and closed conveyors. It ensures that any fire threat is quickly identified and neutralised, maintaining the safety and functionality of the conveyor system.
Storage protection
By detecting abnormal levels of combustion gases, the MGD can alarm and initiate preventive measures to avoid ignition events. This proactive approach ensures that storage facilities remain safe and secure, even in the presence of volatile materials.
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Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/special-reports/14102024/fuelling-the-future-safely/
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