Prosol UK unveils new fire blanket to address lithium-ion battery fires in larger vehicles

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Prosol UK’s Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line designed for electric SUVs and vans

Prosol UK has launched its new Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line, a larger variant of its Fire Cloak™ Electric Vehicle Fire Blanket.

The new model is designed specifically for electric SUVs, vans, and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and aims to contain potential lithium-ion battery fires in these larger vehicles.

As reported by Prosol UK, the Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line is manufactured in Yorkshire, UK.

The Red-Line version features a wide red strip through the centre to help ensure proper alignment during deployment.

This addition is in response to customer feedback, improving performance by making it easier to position the blanket correctly over a vehicle.

Developed from the original Fire Cloak™ design

The Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line follows the success of Prosol UK’s original Fire Cloak™, which was first introduced in 2021.

The original version, developed after extensive testing with Horiba MIRA, was designed to contain fires in electric vehicles using a specially modified glass fibre material.

The material is coated with a fire-resistant polymer, giving it extremely high temperature resistance.

The Fire Cloak™ is also the only vehicle fire blanket in the world to achieve the British Standard Class 0 Fire Rating.

Feedback-driven design improvements

Andy Coulton, managing director of Prosol UK, explained the reasoning behind the product’s development: “We’re always listening to our customers and implementing their feedback to make enhancements to our products.”

He added: “Ensuring that the blanket is centred will provide the best possible performance and help to minimise any collateral damage to other vehicles and property in the vicinity of the fire.”

Global success and bespoke service offering

The Fire Cloak™ range, including the new XL Red-Line, has gained traction internationally, with distribution in countries such as the USA, Australia, and India.

Coulton commented on the demand for the larger version in the American market, driven by the popularity of large SUVs.

He also highlighted the advantages of UK-based manufacturing, allowing the company to offer bespoke, made-to-measure services to suit specific customer needs.

“We can make a Fire Cloak™ to suit your requirements,” Coulton said.

Prosol UK unveils new Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line to address lithium-ion battery fires in larger vehicles: Summary

Prosol UK has launched the Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line, a 12 x 9 metre fire blanket designed for larger electric vehicles, including SUVs and vans.

Manufactured in the UK, this variant builds on the original Fire Cloak™ design, incorporating customer feedback to enhance deployment.

A wide red stripe in the centre of the blanket provides a clear visual guide to help position the blanket correctly.

The Fire Cloak™ XL Red-Line is already proving popular in markets like the USA, where larger vehicles are common.

The Fire Cloak™ is made from high-tech fire-resistant material and has been tested to British standards.

New Euralarm guidance on fire extinguishing system performance in data centres

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionSafety

Impact of airflow and containment on gaseous fire suppression in data centres

Euralarm has published a guidance document addressing the impact of high airflow and hot/cold aisle containment on the performance of gaseous fire extinguishing systems in data centres.

As reported by Euralarm, the guidance highlights key research findings on how cooling approaches, particularly high airflow, affect the efficacy of total flooding gaseous fire suppression systems.

It also provides insights into practical applications of these findings, especially for fire system designers, IT managers, and data centre operators.

The document focuses on the deployment of fire suppression systems and not on their detection aspects.

Understanding airflow and fire protection

The guidance explains that the presence of high airflow, commonly found in modern data centres, could potentially influence the performance of fire suppression systems.

Traditionally, fire systems were designed to interrupt airflow during an event to improve fire extinguishing efforts.

However, the research covered in the Euralarm report found that modern data centres, which often require continuous airflow to avoid equipment overheating, present a challenge to the traditional interruption approach.

The research shows that, while continued air movement may not negatively affect fire suppression performance, certain designs could require adjustments depending on airflow speeds and containment structures.

Variations in approvals between Europe and the US

Another key point from the Euralarm guidance is the difference in regulatory approaches between Europe and the US regarding fire suppression systems.

In the US, systems are required to meet specific product and system approvals such as those outlined in UL 2166.

European regulations, in contrast, provide more flexibility, with standards like EN 15004-1 being voluntary.

This difference allows for more customised fire protection designs in Europe, provided they are accepted by local authorities and stakeholders.

Euralarm emphasises that stakeholders must consider regional requirements and approvals when implementing fire protection systems.

Understanding the local context ensures that fire systems are compliant and effective.

Nozzle positioning and containment

The guidance also addresses the issue of nozzle positioning within data centres with hot and cold aisle containment.

Ensuring that extinguishing agents are distributed evenly across the containment areas is crucial to system performance.

The document compares different regulatory standards, highlighting that nozzle positioning varies across jurisdictions, particularly in regard to area coverage, height limitations, and airflow configurations.

The guidance suggests that in some cases, additional protective measures may be needed to ensure effective fire suppression, especially in areas with high airflow or complex containment setups.

This ensures that the fire suppression system works as intended in both hot and cold aisle configurations.

Impact of high airflow and aisle containment on fire extinguishing systems: summary

Euralarm’s latest guidance provides crucial information on the effects of high airflow and aisle containment on gaseous fire extinguishing systems in data centres.

As outlined in the document, continued airflow during a fire event may not hinder fire suppression efforts, but certain design considerations must be taken into account.

Differences between European and US regulatory frameworks offer varying levels of flexibility, which could affect system designs.

Nozzle positioning and the distribution of extinguishing agents within containment areas are key areas of focus in the guidance.

The document is a valuable resource for data centre operators, IT managers, and fire system designers who need to adapt fire protection systems to the unique cooling demands of modern data centres.

Alpine Fire announces acquisition of DAS Fire in UK fire protection sector

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Alpine Fire expands with DAS Fire acquisition

Alpine Fire, a UK-based fire suppression company, has announced the acquisition of Hampshire-based DAS Fire.

DAS Fire specialises in fire detection and suppression solutions for the data centre sector in the UK and Ireland.

As reported by Alpine, the company will now benefit from the added expertise and services provided by DAS Fire, enhancing its overall offering.

This acquisition marks Alpine’s first major deal since securing private equity backing from WestBridge in 2022.

The move is seen as a key step in Alpine’s growth strategy as it diversifies into sectors that align with its current operations.

Alpine Fire’s diversification strategy

Alpine’s CEO, Steven Nanda, highlighted the strategic benefits of the acquisition: “This acquisition enables us to accelerate our diversification strategy into sectors that complement our own.”

He further emphasised the significance of expanding into the high-growth data centre sector, which provides an opportunity to enhance their service portfolio.

Nanda also expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating: “I am incredibly excited to have DAS join the team, we have added further expertise and capability in a unique sector which we identified as a key growth area.”

The deal is expected to strengthen Alpine’s position in the market while enhancing its service offerings for existing customers.

DAS Fire’s role in the acquisition

DAS Fire, known for its full design, installation, and maintenance services for data centre fire systems, brings valuable expertise to Alpine.

Stuart Parker, Managing Director of DAS, shared his perspective on the acquisition: “It’s an exciting time to join the progressive team at Alpine and combine the extensive experience of both of our organisations.”

Parker noted that while DAS will now operate as part of a larger organisation, the company remains committed to focusing on its customers and staff.

The acquisition is expected to benefit both firms’ clients by offering expanded and expertly designed solutions.

Private equity backing and growth plans

Alpine attracted private equity investment from WestBridge in 2022, a move that has played a pivotal role in facilitating this acquisition.

Since the secondary management buyout in December 2022, Alpine has seen continuous organic growth in its core markets, positioning the firm well for future expansion.

This acquisition aligns with Alpine’s ambitions to further strengthen its presence in specialised sectors and provide enhanced services to a broader customer base.

Alpine Fire announces acquisition of DAS Fire: Summary

Alpine Fire, a leading UK fire suppression company, has acquired DAS Fire, a specialist in fire detection and suppression for the data centre sector.

The acquisition is the first since Alpine secured private equity funding from WestBridge in 2022 and forms part of Alpine’s broader growth and diversification strategy.

Alpine’s CEO, Steven Nanda, highlighted the benefits of expanding into complementary sectors, while DAS Fire’s Managing Director, Stuart Parker, expressed enthusiasm for joining the larger organisation.

The acquisition is expected to enhance both firms’ offerings, with a focus on providing improved solutions to clients in complex sectors.

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection introduces Arvak fire detection device for high-risk industries

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Dafo Vehicle announces new Arvak fire detection device

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection has announced the launch of its new fire detection system, Arvak, aimed at improving safety in industries such as mining, forestry, and agriculture.

As reported by Dafo Vehicle, the Arvak system is designed to offer early fire detection and reduce the risk of fire hazards in harsh working environments.

The device can function as a stand-alone system, which requires no annual servicing, enhancing its cost-effectiveness and ease of use for operators.

Key features and integration options of Arvak

The Arvak fire detection system provides an early warning to operators by identifying potential fire risks before they become critical.

It is designed for easy installation, minimizing operational disruptions during setup.

Sami Saarelainen, Business Line Manager for Forestry and Agriculture at Dafo Vehicle, said: “Our customers in industries such as mining, forestry, and agriculture face high fire risks daily, and we’re always seeking new ways to increase their safety.”

The Arvak system can be integrated into fire suppression systems for comprehensive protection, or it can function independently to alert operators of fire risks.

Arvak’s advanced diagnostics and false alarm prevention

Arvak includes advanced diagnostics, which offer real-time system monitoring and status updates.

The system is designed to minimize false alarms, ensuring reliability in high-risk environments.

It also includes a single detector measuring loop with a terminating resistor, enabling it to detect wire interruptions and low-temperature shorts effectively.

This makes Arvak suitable for monitoring critical areas of industrial sites and vehicles.

The device is built to withstand demanding conditions, with features like high electromagnetic immunity, reverse polarity protection, and overvoltage protection, making it durable for harsh operating environments.

Durability and environmental resilience of Arvak

The IP67-rated Arvak is resistant to both dust and water, allowing it to perform in tough environmental conditions.

The device’s robust design ensures it remains functional even in extreme working environments.

Its resistance to external conditions and minimal servicing requirements make Arvak a suitable solution for industries looking to reduce downtime and improve overall safety standards in fire detection.

Advanced fire detection device launched by Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection: Summary

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection has launched Arvak, a new fire detection system designed for industries operating in harsh conditions.

The device provides early fire warnings, allowing operators to respond quickly and reduce risk.

Key features of Arvak include fast installation, no annual servicing when used as a stand-alone system, and advanced diagnostics for real-time monitoring.

Built for durability, the IP67-rated device can withstand challenging environments, offering reliable performance with minimal false alarms.

Arvak can also be integrated into a suppression system for comprehensive protection, making it a versatile solution for industries such as mining, forestry, and agriculture.

Ranger Fire and Security acquires Dublin-based KSS Fire Suppression

by Breaking NewsFire Suppression

Ranger Fire and Security’s European expansion begins

Ranger Fire and Security has announced its acquisition of KSS Fire Suppression, a Dublin-based company specialising in kitchen and gas fire suppression systems.

As reported by Ranger Fire & Security, this move marks the company’s first step into the European market, with the acquisition of KSS providing a platform for further growth in Ireland and potentially beyond.

Ranger’s CEO, Mark Bridges, highlighted the company’s ambitions to expand across Europe, building on the experience gained from growing businesses in this region.

KSS has been serving the Irish market for over ten years, offering a range of commercial and industrial fire safety services.

The company is known for its strong customer service and its solid operational structure, which includes a dedicated team of sales and support staff.

Strong leadership remains in place at KSS

The acquisition was driven by the strength of KSS’s leadership, with founder Jeff Doyle and director Rob Davis set to remain in key roles.

Rob Davis will continue as Managing Director of KSS, while Jeff Doyle will take on the role of Regional Chairman, focusing on identifying new acquisition opportunities in Ireland for Ranger.

Ranger CEO, Mark Bridges, said: “KSS Fire Suppression is a respected business in the fire suppression space that adds a wealth of industry expertise, a strong customer base, and a proven track record of success to the Ranger Group.”

The experience and leadership of both Doyle and Davis are expected to help KSS achieve further growth, with the support of Ranger’s broader resources.

Plans for organic and inorganic growth

KSS is positioned for both organic and inorganic growth, according to Ranger’s management team.

The company plans to leverage its existing maintenance portfolio and strong relationships to expand its reach across Ireland.

Ranger’s strategy involves a mix of organic growth through existing operations and inorganic growth through further acquisitions.

Jeff Doyle, founder of KSS, commented: “We have a shared focus on providing a high-quality service for customers, and I look forward to working closely with Mark and the team to grow KSS.”

Ranger’s acquisition strategy is expected to focus on businesses that prioritise maintenance services and possess strong leadership teams capable of executing future growth plans.

Acquisition part of larger growth strategy

The KSS acquisition is part of Ranger’s broader strategy to establish itself as a leading provider of fire and safety services across the UK and Ireland.

Previous acquisitions include AFIL, Ignis Fire Protection Ltd, Syncro Group Ltd, IPH Fire Solutions Ltd, and Fire Door Specialists Ltd.

Ranger Fire and Security launched earlier in 2024, backed by Hyperion Equity Partners, and has since focused on acquiring companies in the fire and safety sector.

The company’s aim is to offer comprehensive fire safety solutions to its customers through a mix of regional and national operations.

Mark Bridges added: “This acquisition marks an important milestone for Ranger as we continue to expand and deliver high-quality fire safety solutions across new regions.”

Ranger Fire and Security acquires Dublin-based KSS Fire Suppression: Summary

Ranger Fire and Security has acquired KSS Fire Suppression, a Dublin-based provider of kitchen and gas fire suppression systems.

The acquisition, as reported by Ranger Fire & Security, marks Ranger’s first venture into Europe and is part of its broader strategy to expand across the continent.

KSS, led by Jeff Doyle and Rob Davis, has a strong reputation for quality service in Ireland and is positioned for further growth.

Doyle and Davis will remain in key roles, with Doyle focusing on identifying new acquisition opportunities in Ireland.

Ranger’s CEO, Mark Bridges, described the acquisition as a key step in the company’s goal to expand its fire safety offerings.

Is The Fire Knight the guardian of tomorrow’s safety?

by Breaking NewsFire Suppression

The Fire Knight’s approach to reshaping fire safety with innovative systems that emphasise proactive measures and environmental care

As global temperatures rise and environmental conditions become more volatile, the frequency and intensity of wildfires have reached unprecedented levels.

In 2023 alone, wildfires destroyed millions of acres worldwide, leaving devastation in their wake and highlighting the urgent need for more effective fire suppression technologies.

Traditional fire safety measures, whilst essential, are increasingly proving insufficient against these modern threats.

Alarms and sprinklers, though vital, often respond only when the fire has already taken hold.

This reactive approach can lead to significant damage and loss.

Recognising this gap, The Fire Knight has developed a suite of advanced fire suppression systems that shift the paradigm from reactive to proactive.

The escalating impact of environmental factors, electrical anomalies, human errors, and the looming challenge of climate change underlines the urgent need for innovative fire protection strategies.

The Fire Knight, with its years of dedicated development, introduces cutting-edge fire suppression systems tailored for diverse environments, from residential areas to industrial complexes and vehicles.

A new era in fire suppression

At the forefront of The Fire Knight’s innovations is The Guardian Series, a state-of-the-art fire suppression system that exemplifies the company’s commitment to creating a safer, more resilient world.

The Guardian Series is designed to act swiftly and decisively, offering protection before fires can spread and cause catastrophic damage to assets and infrastructure.

Equipped with advanced components such as deep-cycle batteries, photovoltaic collectors, and reliable inverters, The Guardian systems are engineered for continuous operation, even in remote areas prone to wildfires.

Strategically placed units form a robust defensive barrier, capable of detecting and extinguishing fires at the earliest stages.

Additionally, individual Guardian units can safeguard smaller utilities, minimising downtime, preserving essential services, and preventing costly rebuilds.

Environmental stewardship and efficiency

One of the standout features of The Guardian Series is its use of an environmentally friendly encapsulating agent.

Unlike traditional fire suppression agents, which can be toxic and require extensive cleanup, this agent is non-toxic and effective, leaving no harmful residues behind.

This makes The Guardian Series not only a powerful tool in fire suppression but also a responsible choice for protecting the environment.

Real-time monitoring and autonomous operation

The Guardian systems are equipped with real-time monitoring capabilities, including infrared flame sensors and video surveillance cameras.

These features allow for constant supervision and ensure timely intervention when needed.

In addition, the systems’ autonomous operation means they can function effectively without human intervention, a critical advantage in remote or dangerous locations.

With features such as video surveillance cameras and advanced communication modules, each Guardian system operates under constant supervision, ensuring timely human intervention and emergency response when needed.

This seamless blend of technology and human collaboration reflects The Guardian Series’ commitment to redefine fire safety standards, creating a safer and more resilient future worldwide.

Safeguarding homes and businesses

While The Guardian Series focuses on large-scale fire suppression, The Fire Knight Protector System brings cutting-edge fire safety technology to residential and commercial settings.

This system is designed to detect and extinguish fire threats proactively, providing an extra layer of security for homes, offices, and businesses.

Advanced detection and communication

The Fire Knight Protector System introduces a new era of fire safety with advanced sensor technologies that identify fires in their early stages.

Unlike conventional systems triggered by extreme heat, the Protector system activates promptly upon detecting flames, preventing fires from spreading extensively.

Equipped with a range of sensors including flame, gas, Volatile Organic Compound (VOC), and rate of rise heat detectors, the Fire Knight Protector efficiently detects and suppresses fires.

It not only alerts a manned command centre but also ensures rapid communication with emergency services and designated contacts in case of fire emergencies.

Featuring a sleek design, the Fire Knight Protector seamlessly integrates into any environment, providing flexible installation options for residential and commercial premises.

Residents receive notifications with regards to system alerts and maintenance needs through a dedicated app, enhancing user experience and ensuring timely servicing for optimal system performance.

Operational through a 4G LTE SIM module, the Fire Knight Protector system ensures reliable connectivity.

For those opting for battery operation, the Fire Knight Protector System offers easy self-installation without complex electrical or water connections.

Residents can choose to hardwire the system with professional assistance or rely on its built-in battery for simplified installation.

In conclusion, the Fire Knight Protector System redefines fire safety with its proactive approach, advanced sensor technologies, and autonomous operation.

It enhances safety measures within residential and commercial spaces while providing peace of mind through efficient fire suppression capabilities.

The Comodo: Protecting vehicles from fire hazards

The Fire Knight’s lineup extends further with The Comodo, a compact yet efficient fire detection system designed for discreet placement in high-risk areas within vehicles.

Focused on swift detection and response to potential fires, The Comodo, with its environmentally friendly encapsulation fluid, sets a new standard in vehicle fire safety.

In the realm of vehicular safety, The Comodo emerges as a versatile solution, overcoming the challenges posed by lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles.

Ranging in sizes and offering customisation for various applications, The Comodo symbolizes a shift in fire safety technology.

Once again utilising a powerful fire encapsulation fluid, The Comodo demonstrates unparalleled efficacy in extinguishing fires, surpassing traditional agents.

Its advanced dual-sensor technology guarantees precise activation in crucial moments, integrating temperature sensors and timer logic.

Characterised by flexibility, The Comodo can be powered by the vehicle’s source or batteries, with an 8-bit micro-controller and a charging section supporting a 2AH lithium-ion polymer (LiPo) battery for a year without recharging, ensuring continuous operability.

The Comodo adapts seamlessly, offering tailored fire safety solutions for a variety of vehicles.

A key application of The Comodo is mitigating post-rear-end collision fires, a significant global concern due to the proximity of petrol tanks to the rear axle.

By tactically incorporating The Comodo, vehicles are better equipped to handle fires, including those arising in petrol tanks after collisions.

Strategically placing The Comodo is essential, considering the vehicle’s structure and specific regulations.

Ideal locations include easily accessible areas such as the trunk/boot, under seats, engines, or designated compartments.

For electric vehicles, maximising fire suppression capabilities involves situating The Comodo near the battery, ensuring swift responses to potential fires.

In cases of lithium-ion battery fires, The Comodo plays a pivotal role by effectively managing extreme heat discharges, toxic gases, and the risk of re-ignition post-extinguishing.

With its presence near the battery, The Comodo ensures rapid and efficient fire suppression, enhancing safety in the evolving landscape of vehicular technology.

A vision for the future

Looking ahead, The Fire Knight envisions a future where its systems are as ubiquitous as smoke detectors, integrated into homes, businesses, and public infrastructure around the world.

With units currently available for custom orders across Australia, Canada, North America, and Europe, and actively seeking additional distributors, The Fire Knight is dedicated to fostering a safer, more resilient global community.

The company’s commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and proactive safety measures is reshaping the landscape of fire protection.

In a world where the threat of fire looms large, The Fire Knight stands as a beacon of hope, leading the charge towards a safer tomorrow.

For more information, contact e: info@thefireknight.com or visit the Fire Knight Website at: www.thefireknight.com.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Siemens to acquire Danfoss Fire Safety, expanding sustainable fire suppression solutions

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Siemens strengthens its fire safety portfolio with Danfoss acquisition

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has announced plans to acquire Danfoss Fire Safety, a Denmark-based subsidiary of Danfoss Group, as reported by Siemens Smart Infrastructure.

This acquisition aims to strengthen Siemens’ presence in the global fire safety market while accelerating its transition towards sustainable fire suppression technologies.

Danfoss Fire Safety will become part of Siemens’ Buildings Business Unit.

It will enhance Siemens’ fire safety offerings, particularly with its high-pressure water mist system, a fast-growing, environmentally friendly fire suppression technology.

Siemens expects this move to provide global customers with more sustainable fire safety solutions.

Focus on sustainable fire suppression technologies

The acquisition of Danfoss Fire Safety is expected to position Siemens to address sustainability trends in fire suppression across various industries.

The addition of the water mist technology will allow Siemens to better serve industries such as data centres, industrial processes, and tunnel infrastructures, which have growing demand for advanced fire suppression solutions.

Susanne Seitz, CEO of Buildings Business Unit at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, said: “With the acquisition of Danfoss Fire Safety, Siemens will be strongly positioned to cater to a shift towards sustainability in the fire suppression market.”

Danfoss Fire Safety’s future under Siemens

Danfoss Fire Safety, which has been a fully-owned subsidiary of Danfoss Group since 2019, will continue to operate as a separate legal entity under the name “A Siemens Business.”

The company, which currently employs 125 people, has developed into a leader in fixed firefighting systems but was no longer part of Danfoss’ strategic focus.

Troels H. Petersen, Senior Vice President for Corporate M&A at Danfoss, said: “We are confident that the business, along with our Fire Safety colleagues, will thrive under Siemens’ ownership.

“Our priority now is ensuring a smooth transition for our employees, customers, suppliers, and partners.”

Transaction details and next steps

The acquisition is still subject to regulatory approvals, with the transaction expected to close by the end of 2024.

Financial terms have not been disclosed.

Siemens anticipates that the integration of Danfoss Fire Safety will further boost its global market presence and create new opportunities for growth within the fire safety industry.

Danfoss Fire Safety will continue to operate independently until the transaction is finalised.

Siemens intends to leverage Danfoss’ existing technologies to enhance its fire suppression portfolio and meet increasing global demand for sustainable solutions.

Siemens announces acquisition of Danfoss Fire Safety for sustainable growth: Summary

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has announced the acquisition of Danfoss Fire Safety, a subsidiary of the Danfoss Group.

This move aims to strengthen Siemens’ sustainable fire safety offerings, specifically through Danfoss’ high-pressure water mist fire suppression technology.

The acquisition will integrate Danfoss Fire Safety into Siemens’ Buildings Business Unit, with the company continuing to operate independently under the name “A Siemens Business.”

According to Siemens, this will enhance its ability to serve industries with growing fire safety demands.

The acquisition, subject to regulatory approval, is expected to close by the end of 2024.

Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.

FirePro unveils new mobile demonstration unit for fire suppression training

by Fire SuppressionProducts

FirePro launche of mobile fire demonstration unit for UK and Ireland

FirePro UK has introduced a new mobile demonstration unit, named Melissa, to expand its fire suppression training programs across the UK and Ireland.

As reported by FirePro, the mobile unit is designed to provide hands-on training for its LPCB-certified condensed aerosol fire suppression systems.

The unit, Melissa, allows for live fire demonstrations that go beyond traditional classroom training.

Participants can experience the design, installation, and commissioning of FirePro systems, along with observing real-time fire suppression when a fire is detected and extinguished.

Supporting diverse training formats

Melissa was developed to accommodate a variety of training formats, including internal engineering sessions, “lunch & learn” events, and accredited CPD (Continuing Professional Development) programs.

The mobile unit provides experiential learning by showcasing how FirePro systems function during fire scenarios.

FirePro UK emphasises that the mobile unit will also be used for external events by the FirePro Ambassadors network.

In addition to internal sessions, Melissa is available to fire safety professionals, specifiers, and end-users looking to enhance their understanding of fire suppression technology.

Demonstrations across the UK and Ireland

The Melissa mobile unit is available for demonstrations across the UK and Ireland, requiring only a space equivalent to three parking bays.

The unit is suited to various locations, including promotional events and fire safety demonstrations.

FirePro has successfully deployed the mobile unit in partnership with the EA-RS Group and showcased it at an event in Manchester.

During this event, FirePro representatives delivered a CPD session to around 100 delegates, including members of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM).

Contact for mobile demonstrations

For more information or to arrange a demonstration, FirePro UK encourages interested parties to contact Kate Blake at FirePro or book directly via the company’s website.

The mobile unit aims to serve the wider fire safety community and enhance knowledge of modern fire suppression systems.

FirePro unveils new mobile demonstration unit for fire suppression training: Summary

FirePro UK has launched Melissa, a mobile fire demonstration unit to enhance its fire suppression training offerings across the UK and Ireland.

Melissa provides live fire demonstrations, allowing participants to experience the design, installation, and operation of FirePro’s condensed aerosol fire suppression systems.

It supports a variety of training formats, including CPD programs, and is available for external promotional events.

The unit has already been showcased in collaboration with the EA-RS Group and at an event in Manchester.

Interested parties can contact FirePro UK for further information or to schedule a demonstration.

Remote pump monitoring with Peerless Pump

by Breaking NewsFire Suppression

Travis Montembeault, Director for FireConnect Digital Innovation Business at Peerless Pump Company, introduces the remote pump monitoring solution

Could you introduce us to Peerless Pump’s latest product offering?

FireConnect – in the spirit of Peerless innovation, we have developed the worlds most robust and First and Only FM Approved pump remote monitoring solution.

How does this fit into Peerless Pump’s existing portfolio?

It is a great additional bolt-on to existing fire pump systems, both for Peerless and other OEMs.

Customers are finding value all throughout the solution but some of the biggest value props that I’ve heard from voice of the customer include leak detection through monitoring jockey pump usage and diagnosing problems before dispatching service trucks – i.e.

controller failures, water supply issues – what is a common trouble alarm?

Customers also value that it can manage fuel level across multiple sites for diesel driven fire pump systems; Incident Command – pump performance during a fire scenario, it can understand fire spread through pump performance, providing compliance with mandated weekly/monthly fire pump churn tests, and it ensures a fire pump controller has been returned to “Auto Mode” following routine service.

How does this product address current challenges or gaps in the fire protection industry?

Our industry struggles from a people problem.

By that I mean we can’t get enough people to inspect and service every fire pump installation out there.

We know that pumps are not being tested at the routine intervals they should be and are not being replaced quickly either.

We saw this especially during COVID when staff couldn’t get into buildings for extended periods of time.

Data visibility via remote monitoring achieves several things to help address reliability and improve performance.

It makes compliance abundantly obvious to all those that need this information.

It helps catch issues and failures that occur in between the routine NFPA 25 inspection intervals so that action can be taken quicker

It also opens the door for concepts like remote testing (see FM1330) to help reduce the barrier to testing fire pumps weekly/monthly.

And Incident Command can be useful for the fire department to discuss live pump performance as sprinkler heads are open without having to send someone into the pump room to assess the situation.

What kind of feedback have you received from users about FireConnect?

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly around our clients that navigate risk across multiple buildings with fire pumps across multiple countries.

They struggle with them same personnel issues that most in the industry do – keeping good people who know the way things work.

The good news is, with a system like FireConnect the data and history stays consistent even as people come and go allowing for continuity.

Regarding feedback for innovation – we’re constantly assessing our product offering for iterative and paradigm shift developments, especially based on feedback from our existing and potential clients.

As discussed the first product offering started out as a vision in conjuncture with a corporate partner with a very specific need.

Over time we’ve adapted the solution to fit a broader segment of the market, including releasing reduced functionality models to serve older installations that don’t have the most recent vintage equipment, but still want to monitor their systems remotely.

The best part of working in this space is the ability to be agile.

Over a weekend, based on feedback from a potential client, we were able to launch functionality for monitoring live fuel level in diesel fuel tanks (not just an alarm) along with simplifying pump test reporting to adhere to California diesel emissions reporting.

The future is limitless and I’m excited that we’re just beginning to scratch the surface.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Dafo Vehicle launches Arvak fire detection system in high-risk industries

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Dafo Vehicle introduces Arvak to enhance fire safety

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection has launched its latest fire detection device, Arvak, designed to improve fire safety in high-risk environments.

The Arvak system offers a cost-effective and reliable solution that helps industries such as mining, forestry, and agriculture reduce fire risks.

Arvak provides early warning alerts of potential fire hazards, allowing operators to take swift action and minimise risks.

The system’s stand-alone design requires no annual servicing, ensuring it is both effective and economical for businesses operating in challenging conditions.

Key features of the Arvak system

The Arvak device comes equipped with several features designed to enhance its reliability in demanding environments.

These include early fire detection capabilities that alert operators before hazards escalate, and a fast, easy installation process that minimises operational disruption.

Arvak is also built to reduce the occurrence of false alarms, ensuring that its performance remains reliable.

The system includes advanced diagnostics, which allow for real-time monitoring and straightforward status updates, making it easier for operators to manage their fire safety systems effectively.

Arvak’s robust and durable design

Arvak is designed to function in tough industrial conditions.

Its robust construction includes features such as high electromagnetic immunity, reverse polarity protection, and overvoltage protection.

These elements ensure that the device continues to operate reliably even in extreme circumstances.

Additionally, Arvak holds an IP67 rating, signifying its resistance to both dust and water intrusion.

These characteristics make it particularly well-suited for industries that regularly deal with harsh environmental conditions.

Integration and fire protection

While Arvak functions effectively as a stand-alone system, it can also be integrated into broader fire suppression systems.

This flexibility allows businesses to implement comprehensive fire safety measures across their operations, protecting critical areas of vehicles or industrial sites.

With its single detector measuring loop and terminating resistor, Arvak is capable of detecting wire interruptions and low-temperature shorts, offering reliable detection of fire risks in high-risk environments.

New Arvak fire detection system offers cost-effective safety for high-risk vehicles: Summary

Dafo Vehicle Fire Protection has launched Arvak, a fire detection system designed to improve safety in industries such as mining, forestry, and agriculture.

Arvak provides early warning signals of fire hazards, functions independently without requiring annual servicing, and offers an array of features, including fast installation, false alarm prevention, and advanced diagnostics.

The device is built for durability in harsh environments and holds an IP67 rating.

It can also be integrated into fire suppression systems for added protection.

Arvak’s design makes it a practical solution for businesses looking to enhance their fire safety measures.