Multitone shares German market insights on personal safety and time critical messaging

by CommunicationsFeatured NewsFire DetectionSafety

Interview outlines evolution of Multitone Germany

Multitone Electronics has published an interview with Frank Rotthoff on the development and future direction of its German critical communications business.

According to the company, the piece focuses on Rotthoff’s role as Managing Director of Multitone Elektronik International GmbH and his work in modernising the operation since 2008.

The firm said the interview sets out how Multitone’s German arm has built its position in personal safety and time-critical messaging, as well as the sectors it now serves.

In the interview, Multitone explained that Rotthoff joined the business after a career in semiconductor and electronic components, attracted by the company’s reputation and its patented EkoTek personal security system.

Frank Rotthoff, Managing Director of Multitone Germany, said: “Multitone is a renowned company with a long history and an excellent reputation in the market, which impressed me a lot.”

He noted that learning about EkoTek as a system that could be deployed across different vertical markets was decisive in his decision to take on overall leadership responsibility for the German company.

According to the interview, Multitone Germany has expanded EkoTek into the broader EkoFamily portfolio, which the company said is now used in industrial sites, the healthcare market and public offices across Germany.

Rotthoff added that recent work in Germany includes one of the largest projects in the subsidiary’s history.

Company views on German critical communications demand

According to Rotthoff, time-critical communication linked to workplace safety has become very important in the German market.

He stated that applications now range from lone worker protection in industry to laboratory environments, healthcare and nursing settings and municipal public sector locations with public access.

Rotthoff said: “Time-critical communication, especially in connection with workplace safety, has become enormously important.”

He added: “Safety in the workplace is a fundamental basic need and has the highest priority in times of skilled labour shortages and demographic change.”

The interview explained that German users operate under various DIN standards and European Union directives, which the company said set high requirements for user protection and system functionality.

According to Multitone, customers are looking for flexible, small and lightweight devices that are unobtrusive but reliable, with low investment needs and rapid implementation.

The company described this requirement as a need for versatile and comprehensive systems that support a range of applications.

Rotthoff noted that there is a competitive environment in this area, but argued that when customers review base technology, advice, support and total cost of ownership, the number of providers they consider reliable reduces.

According to the interview, Multitone said it is often selected as the solution after this evaluation.

Public safety, care growth and alerting priorities

Rotthoff identified public safety as the topic that will dominate future demand for critical communications in Germany.

In the interview, he referred to recent incidents and said they have increased the sense of urgency across urban areas, public authorities and educational institutions.

He also highlighted the healthcare sector, including outpatient services and emergency services, as an area where this heightened awareness is visible.

Rotthoff said that the care industry is growing disproportionately due to an ageing society, which he linked to rising demand for time-critical alerts.

According to the company, this growth means communication and alerting systems play a fundamental role in supporting law enforcement and protecting emergency and care personnel.

Multitone stated that it has developed a portfolio of solutions aimed at these applications and that it is continuously reviewing new technologies with the goal of making systems smaller, faster and more reliable.

Technology strategy and cybersecurity for German customers

In the interview, Rotthoff outlined Multitone’s view that the German telecommunications market is moving towards cloud applications and software as a service.

He said: “The trend is clearly moving towards cloud applications and software as a service (SaaS).”

“It already includes cloud solutions and SaaS.”

According to Rotthoff, traditional telephony using DECT or on-premises telephone systems is being replaced by Internet Protocol based telephony.

He noted that the company sees the German market as relatively conservative compared with Anglophone markets such as the UK and US when it comes to adopting new technologies.

Multitone said it is developing new solutions with artificial intelligence support that are intended to meet future technological requirements, including cloud based architectures and software as a service models.

Rotthoff also described cybersecurity as one of the greatest challenges facing organisations.

He said: “Cybersecurity is one of the greatest challenges of our time.”

According to the company, Multitone applies measures against cyberattacks with high levels of caution and adapts them continuously to provide protection for its systems and users.

The firm added that it handles General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requirements with the same level of attention.

Customer base, reference sites and sales approach in Germany

Multitone stated that it has more than 8,000 customers in Germany who value reliability and durability in its solutions.

According to the company, customers also respond positively to regular product developments and to its technical and commercial service.

The interview reported that Multitone is a market leader in personal safety systems for public authorities and mental health facilities.

The firm said its EkoTek system is designed to be flexible and to operate without extensive cabling.

Rotthoff explained that the system can handle assistance and alarm calls and can transmit the precise location of the person calling for help so that responders can reach them in a short time.

The company stated that this capability is aimed at helping to prevent worse outcomes in incidents where staff need immediate support.

In the interview, Multitone listed reference installations at university hospitals such as Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich and Hannover Medical School.

The company also cited deployments with public authorities including the district of Harburg, in the automotive industry with Volkswagen and in retail with IKEA.

According to the firm, these organisations use its solutions to support protection for employees.

Relationship management and market priorities for Multitone Germany

Rotthoff said Multitone maintains contact with customers through service agreements and regional sales teams.

He stated that satisfaction with solutions and support is the company’s top priority and that users value this focus.

According to the interview, Multitone believes that the reputation of its solutions leads to recommendations within sector networks and in specific vertical markets.

Rotthoff also noted the contribution of internal and external sales staff, describing them as experienced colleagues who achieve a high rate of new customer acquisition.

He said this acquisition is supported by a target group strategy that the company has developed for German markets.

Looking ahead, Rotthoff described Multitone’s development work as both market and technology oriented.

He said: “We perform outstanding market– and technology-oriented development work.”

“This enables our solutions to identify and meet market needs at an early stage.”

According to the interview, Multitone believes that combining development work with its sales activities creates a synergy that will support its market leadership in personal security and time-critical messaging.

The company added that it expects this position to continue in the future.

Company background and further information

In editor’s notes accompanying the interview, Multitone said it was founded in 1931 as an international telecommunications company with experience in critical communications and infrastructure deployment.

According to the company, its aim is to help organisations optimise efficiency, reduce costs and improve organisational effectiveness through communication solutions.

The firm stated that it supports clients and partners with a consultative approach to project requirements so that solutions align with organisational strategies.

Multitone added that its system architecture is designed to accommodate new technologies and operational requirements over time without the constraints of proprietary systems.

The company said that further information can be requested by contacting Peter Lomax on +44 (0)1256 320292.

How Multitone’s German focus relates to critical communications work

According to Multitone, the interview outlines demand trends for time-critical communication and personal safety systems in industrial sites, healthcare facilities and public offices in Germany.

This focus is directly relevant for facility managers across industrial, commercial and public sectors who oversee lone worker environments, laboratories and municipal buildings with public access.

The company’s emphasis on public authorities, mental health facilities and large university hospitals indicates potential interest for healthcare estate teams and security managers responsible for staff safety during high-risk interactions.

Rotthoff’s comments on cloud applications, software as a service and the shift from on-premises telephony to Internet Protocol based telephony provide context for system installers, fire-protection contractors and communications engineers planning future infrastructure.

The interview’s focus on cybersecurity and GDPR measures is pertinent for organisations that must integrate critical alerting with broader information technology and data protection frameworks.

Multitone’s description of regional sales structures, service agreements and reference customers may also inform procurement officers and risk assessors who are reviewing suppliers for personal safety and messaging systems in Germany.

Ziegler to supply 18 new fire trucks to Safety Region Midden and West Brabant

by Featured NewsProjectsVehicles

Ziegler signs contract for fire truck delivery in the Netherlands

The company Ziegler has announced a new contract with the Safety Region Midden and West Brabant for the supply of 18 firefighting vehicles.

The agreement was signed in July 2025, with vehicle delivery scheduled to begin in 2027.

According to Ziegler, the vehicles will be engineered and manufactured at the company’s facility in Winschoten.

The order continues a long-standing relationship between Ziegler and the Dutch safety region, which has used Ziegler fire trucks since 2008.

The Safety Region said the new fleet is intended to enhance operational reliability and safety for emergency responders and the public.

Operational goals of the safety region

Rens de Jonge, Strategic Project Manager at VR MWB, said the investment followed a detailed process of technical review and inter-agency coordination.

De Jonge said: “Firefighting vehicles form the backbone of our operational capabilities. This new generation of vehicles is the result of an intensive process of collaboration, coordination, and innovation.
“With this investment, we are committed to reliability, safety, and future-proofing for our firefighters and residents.”

The new vehicles are expected to be integrated across the VR MWB’s service area, which includes both urban and rural environments in the southern Netherlands.

The region aims to modernise its fleet with consistent specifications to simplify training, maintenance and deployment.

Delivery of the vehicles will begin in 2027, with full operational rollout to follow.

Vehicle specifications and features

Ziegler provided a technical overview of the 18 new firefighting vehicles.

Each truck will be built on a Volvo FE 4×2 chassis with a 320 PS (235 kW) engine and fitted with the Ziegler Z-Cab XL crew cabin.

The superstructure is based on the latest ALPAS generation system, incorporating a 2,500-litre water tank and a Ziegler FPN 10-3000-2HH pump.

The trucks will use the latest version of Ziegler’s Z-Control operating concept.

Additional equipment includes an 80-metre high-pressure work reel with 200 l/min flow at 6 bar, a Ziegler Top Integro system, and Z-Vision LED lighting.

Each vehicle is fitted with a 20,000-lumen front LED bar and a light mast with a 35,000-lumen turn and tilt unit.

An electric-hydraulic ladder rack is also included as standard.

Ziegler’s comments on the continued partnership

Rik Feijen, Account Manager at Ziegler Brandweertechniek, welcomed the new contract with VR MWB.

Feijen said: “Ziegler Brandweertechniek is proud to have supplied Safety Region Midden- en West-Brabant with modern, standard firefighting vehicles since 2008.
“This new agreement further expands this wonderful collaboration and we will be able to supply 18 new vehicles to the fire department of the Region Midden- en West-Brabant in 2027.
“The vehicles will be fully engineered and manufactured at our Winschoten location.”

Ziegler confirmed that the vehicles will be manufactured with a focus on compatibility and continuity with the region’s existing fleet.

The company also highlighted the importance of long-term customer relationships in shaping design features.

Ziegler to supply 18 new fire trucks to Safety Region Midden and West Brabant: Summary

Ziegler signed a contract in July 2025 to deliver 18 new firefighting vehicles to the Safety Region Midden and West Brabant.

The vehicles will be delivered from 2027.

The fire trucks will be manufactured at Ziegler’s facility in Winschoten.

Each vehicle will be based on a Volvo FE 4×2 chassis.

The engines will deliver 320 PS or 235 kW of power.

The vehicles include Ziegler’s Z-Cab XL and latest-generation ALPAS superstructure.

Each truck is equipped with a 2,500-litre water tank and FPN 10-3000-2HH pump.

The vehicles will use the updated Z-Control operating system.

Lighting systems include a 20,000-lumen front bar and a 35,000-lumen mast.

An electric-hydraulic ladder rack and high-pressure reel are included.

Rens de Jonge of VR MWB said the purchase supports safety and reliability.

Rik Feijen of Ziegler said the order continues a long-running partnership.

How 292,000 hectares of forest could shape Germany’s wildfire strategy

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Peer review evaluates Brandenburg wildfire governance

The Union Civil Protection Knowledge Network has reported that the German state of Brandenburg has received the final report from a wildfire-focused peer review led by the European Commission.

The handover took place on 14 July 2025 in Potsdam, where the Director General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO), Maciej Popowski, formally presented the findings.

The review, which ran from 17 to 23 November 2024, was conducted by four wildfire experts from Portugal, Spain, and Italy, supported by DG ECHO and the Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change.

It marked the first time a German region has participated in the UCPM Peer Review Programme.

According to the Knowledge Network, the review focused on Brandenburg’s legislative structures, risk management planning, and wildfire response preparedness.

Wildfire risk in Brandenburg presents complex challenge

The peer review team found that Brandenburg’s wildfire risk is shaped by intersecting factors including climate conditions, historical land use, and governance responsibilities.

One major issue identified was the presence of unexploded ordnance across an estimated 292,000 hectares of the region’s forested area.

The team concluded that this hazard complicates forest management, emergency planning, and suppression operations.

The review recommended a comprehensive wildfire risk management strategy tailored to Brandenburg’s land profile and institutional setup.

Additional proposals included strengthening wildfire prevention in forestry policies and providing targeted support to local fire services and municipalities.

New wildfire competence centre to support coordination

The Knowledge Network stated that Brandenburg is currently developing a dedicated Wildfire Competence Centre.

The centre is expected to facilitate cross-sector knowledge exchange and technical collaboration on wildfire governance.

Its remit will include coordinating with forest authorities, environmental agencies, researchers, and fire services.

The development of the centre is one of several steps intended to respond to the peer review’s findings and build long-term resilience.

Workshop participants in Potsdam noted that certain recommendations extend beyond the remit of local authorities and may require action at the federal level.

Stakeholders reflect on peer review process

DG ECHO Director General Maciej Popowski said: “This is more than a simple equipment upgrade, it’s a major leap forward for collaborative wildfire risk management in the region.”

He added: “I would like to congratulate Brandenburg for volunteering to undergo a peer review and thank all authorities involved.”

Dr Sascha Dietel, representing the Ministry of the Interior and Municipal Affairs of the State of Brandenburg, received the report on behalf of the state.

Dr Dietel said: “We appreciated the very good work of the peers involved and the collaborative approach taken throughout the process.

“The report will be reviewed by an advisory board in October to inform future actions.”

Cross-border and multi-agency involvement in review

The peer review was requested by the Brandenburg State School and Technical Facility for Fire and Disaster Protection and supported by the state interior ministry.

According to the Knowledge Network, over 40 organisations participated, including state forestry and agricultural departments, research bodies, and private forest owners.

National agencies such as the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI) and the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) supported the initiative.

International cooperation also featured in the review, with the neighbouring Polish region of Gorzow Wielkopolski contributing insights as part of a joint assistance agreement with Brandenburg.

This cross-border perspective was considered essential given shared environmental and fire-related risks in the area.

EU wildfire peer review completed for Brandenburg region: Summary

Brandenburg received the final report from a wildfire-focused peer review on 14 July 2025.

The review was coordinated by DG ECHO and supported by experts from Portugal, Spain, and Italy.

It was the first regional-level wildfire peer review under the UCPM Peer Review Programme.

The review mission took place in November 2024.

Key focus areas included risk governance, planning, preparedness, and institutional coordination.

One major challenge identified was unexploded ordnance across 292,000 hectares of forest.

The review recommended a long-term wildfire management strategy and better integration of fire prevention in forest planning.

A Wildfire Competence Centre is being established to support knowledge exchange and coordination.

DG ECHO Director General Maciej Popowski presented the report in Potsdam.

Dr Sascha Dietel received the report on behalf of Brandenburg authorities.

Stakeholders expressed support for the findings and noted the need for federal-level consideration of some recommendations.

Over 40 organisations and agencies participated in the review process.

The final report is published in English and German on the Union Civil Protection Knowledge Network website.

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 to spotlight civil protection and wildfire response

by EventsFeatured News

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 confirms strong exhibitor interest

INTERSCHUTZ has reported that its 2026 edition, scheduled for 1 to 6 June in Hanover, Germany, is already nearing capacity.

According to Deutsche Messe AG, which organises the event, nearly three-quarters of available space across nine halls has been booked.

A limited number of stands remain available in the open-air area.

The company said demand spans across firefighting, rescue, and civil protection sectors.

Bernd Heinold, Head of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe AG, said: “Nearly three-quarters of the nine exhibition halls are already booked, and only a few spaces remain available on the open-air-site.”

Heinold added: “It’s already clear that INTERSCHUTZ will further expand its role as the world’s leading industry platform.”

Civil protection and military cooperation to feature prominently

Deutsche Messe AG has stated that INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will mark a shift in focus, with civil protection expected to take on greater importance than in previous editions.

The organiser said exhibitors have shown increased interest due to growing international pressures, including natural disasters, climate emergencies, and global conflict.

For the first time, the German Bundeswehr will have a major presence at the event.

This is part of a broader strategy to showcase civil-military cooperation in emergency response.

According to the organiser, this reflects an emphasis on partnerships between military and civilian agencies across disaster management and defence readiness.

Heinold said: “The current turning point has undoubtedly led to heightened awareness of critical challenges – but also to clear financial commitments.”

Heinold added: “In the coming years, we’ll see significant federal investment in civil protection, including major upgrades in equipment for fire and rescue services.”

Heinold stated: “INTERSCHUTZ provides a unique opportunity to bring together users and manufacturers – both commercial and non-profit – to address future challenges in line with our theme: ‘Safeguarding tomorrow.’”

Leading companies confirmed across all sectors

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will include participation from companies involved in fire, rescue, and emergency services.

According to Deutsche Messe AG, key firefighting exhibitors will include Empl, Magirus, Rosenbauer, Volkan, WISS, and Ziegler.

The organisation confirmed the rescue segment will be represented by Binz, Ferno, PAX, Spencer, and WAS.

Companies exhibiting in the civil protection segment will include Dönges, Lanco, Mast Pumpen, Polyma, and Spechtenhauser.

Deutsche Messe AG reported that companies new to the event have also signed on.

Heinold said: “We’re also seeing interest from companies that have never exhibited at INTERSCHUTZ before. That’s something we’re especially pleased about.”

The organiser said both small firms and larger manufacturers will present their products at the 2026 edition.

WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ to address climate-related emergencies

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will include a dedicated section called WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ.

This will focus on wildfire and vegetation fire response, which Deutsche Messe AG said is a growing area of concern due to climate change.

The event will feature demonstrations and presentations from specialists and practitioners in Germany and abroad.

It is designed to support knowledge exchange between technology developers and emergency services.

Heinold said: “We aim to connect developers, solution providers, and frontline responders.”

Heinold added: “At WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ, exhibitors will gain firsthand insight into the real-world challenges responders face – and vice versa, emergency personnel will experience the latest technologies and tools from the industry.”

INTERSCHUTZ 2026: Summary

INTERSCHUTZ has announced that the 2026 event will take place from 1 to 6 June in Hanover, Germany.

According to Deutsche Messe AG, nearly three-quarters of the nine exhibition halls have been booked.

A small number of stands remain available in the outdoor section.

The organiser said INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will focus more heavily on civil protection.

The German Bundeswehr will take part with a larger exhibition space than in previous years.

The organiser reported that this reflects an increased emphasis on civil-military cooperation.

Firefighting exhibitors will include Empl, Magirus, Rosenbauer, Volkan, WISS, and Ziegler.

Rescue service companies confirmed include Binz, Ferno, PAX, Spencer, and WAS.

The civil protection segment will feature Dönges, Lanco, Mast Pumpen, Polyma, and Spechtenhauser.

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will also host the new WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ.

This section will address wildfire prevention and suppression methods.

The organiser confirmed participation from first-time exhibitors alongside returning firms.

INTERSCHUTZ stated that the theme of the 2026 event is “Safeguarding tomorrow.”

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FeuerTrutz 2025 trade fair programme highlights latest fire protection solutions

by EventsFeatured News

Fire protection professionals to gather in Germany this June

Fire protection experts from across Europe are expected to attend FeuerTrutz 2025 on 25 and 26 June at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg.

According to FeuerTrutz, the event will feature exhibitions and live demonstrations showcasing solutions in passive, active and organisational fire protection.

FeuerTrutz has reported that 98 percent of the 2024 exhibition space has already been booked.

The 2025 programme includes technical forums, practical demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

FeuerTrutz Arena to feature discussions and exhibitor talks

A new addition to the 2025 event is the FeuerTrutz Arena.

This space will include panel discussions, interactive formats and “Industry Insights” talks.

The previous Exhibitor Forum has been incorporated into this arena under the same title.

Exhibitors will present topics and products related to fire prevention on both days of the fair.

FeuerTrutz confirmed that interested exhibitors can register to participate in the programme until 17 April 2025.

Demonstrations and training to support fire protection education

Demonstrations will take place in the outdoor Fire Protection EXPERIENCE zone at 12:00 and 15:00 each day.

Scenarios will be staged to show how fire prevention technologies perform under simulated conditions.

Additional indoor demonstrations will be held throughout the event.

At the Training & Career Meeting Point, attendees can meet training providers and explore professional development opportunities in fire protection.

Forums to address hazardous materials and digital transformation

The “Forum by asecos academy” will return to present sessions on hazardous materials management.

Presentations will cover storage standards for lithium-ion batteries, risk assessment, and comparisons between structural fire compartments and Type 90 technology.

FeuerTrutz 2025 will also host the “PRACTICAL GUIDE TO DIGITISATION” forum, focusing on how companies can implement and benefit from digital services.

The forum will include interviews with companies that have already introduced digital systems.

Evening networking and co-located congress

The after-work networking event will take place at Max Morlock Stadium on the first evening of the fair.

FeuerTrutz reported that ticket availability has been expanded in response to high demand.

The Fire Protection Congress, co-located with the trade fair, will present expert talks on three stages.

Subjects include fire protection for timber structures, organisational fire safety strategies, and customised approaches for existing buildings.

A separate ticket is required for entry to the congress.

FeuerTrutz 2025 trade fair programme highlights latest fire protection solutions: Summary

FeuerTrutz has announced that the 2025 trade fair will take place on 25 and 26 June at Exhibition Centre Nuremberg in Germany.

The event will present developments in passive, active and organisational fire protection through exhibitions, demonstrations and technical forums.

The newly launched FeuerTrutz Arena will feature panel discussions and exhibitor presentations.

Outdoor and indoor demonstrations will allow visitors to observe fire protection systems in action.

Forums will cover topics including hazardous materials storage and digitalisation.

A networking event will be held at Max Morlock Stadium on the first evening.

The Fire Protection Congress will take place alongside the fair and will require a separate ticket.

Its programme will address current issues such as fire protection in timber structures and existing buildings.

Tickets for both the trade fair and the networking event are available through the FeuerTrutz Ticket Shop.

Registration for exhibitor presentations is open until 17 April 2025.

Joint Rescue Coordination Centre anniversary celebrated in Hanover

by EventsFeatured News

Hanover celebrates 50 years of Joint Rescue Coordination Centre

On January 2, 1974, Hanover, the state capital of Lower Saxony, Germany, saw the launch of the country’s first joint rescue coordination centre.

This initiative brought together various emergency services and fire departments under one roof.

As reported by INTERSCHUTZ, the professional fire department, German Red Cross, Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe, Malteser Hilfsdienst, and later private providers collaborated to improve emergency response.

This centralised approach meant that the nearest available vehicle could be dispatched for time-critical operations.

Despite lengthy negotiations, the local newspaper “Neue Presse” supported the initiative, highlighting the need for a unified control centre.

The change aimed to end the competitive race for injured patients and streamline emergency responses.

Celebrating the success and ongoing improvement

Axel von der Ohe, Head of Hanover’s Fire Department, spoke at the 50th-anniversary celebration: “Improving and strengthening emergency services through cooperation and a joint control center has been a complete success throughout Germany, starting in Hanover.

“We can be very proud of this achievement.” He acknowledged the challenges and courage required to implement this pioneering idea.

Christoph Bahlmann, Director of the Hanover Fire Department, emphasized the need for continuous improvement.

He highlighted various approaches to meet the increasing demands on the healthcare system.

“Digitalization and networking as well as telemedicine can be key points on the way to a Health Control Centre 2030 together with our cooperation partner Region Hannover,” Bahlmann stated.

INTERSCHUTZ 2026 to focus on AI in control centres

INTERSCHUTZ project manager Bernd Heinold noted that control centres would be a focus topic at the upcoming trade fair.

“We are particularly pleased that the first control center was created in Hanover, the current home city of INTERSCHUTZ,” Heinold said.

The event, titled “Artificial intelligence in control centers, situation centers and on the scene,” will showcase how intelligent technologies and AI can enhance operational efficiency.

Leading representatives from research and industry will discuss the role of AI in early detection, situation assessment, operational coordination, and communication.

Heinold pointed out the growing importance of AI in emergency services, emphasizing its potential to transform the field.

Allison delivers fire trucks to the U.S. army fleet in Germany

by Americas - Featured News

The U.S. Army in Germany recently added eight Scania structural pumper P410 B4x4HZ trucks with Rosenbauer-body and Allison 4000 Series™ fully automatic transmissions to its fire fleet. The vehicles, featuring the new CP 31 Crew Cab, are powered by a 302 kW (410 hp) diesel engine combined with an Allison 4000 Series™ fully automatic transmission. They will be stationed at different locations across Germany.

The U.S. Army has procured this vehicle configuration for the last 10 years, partly because of the advantages of a standardised fleet for staff training and vehicle maintenance, but also due to its positive experience with Allison transmissions over the past three decades.

Operate Water Pump Via The Power Take-Off

“So far, the transmissions have fulfilled all requirements of the U.S. Army with regards to performance, operation and maintenance,” said Sigurd Mack, Fire Protection Specialist at the U.S. Army Installation Management Command’s European Headquarters in Sembach near Kaiserslautern. “This also applies to the integrated hydraulic retarder and the Power Take-Off with the pump and roll function. It enables us to manoeuvre the vehicle safely and, at the same time, operate the water pump via the Power Take-Off – which is indispensable for efficient firefighting. For our operations and emergency responses good acceleration, easy handling and robustness are essential.”

According to the American NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 1901 (Standard for Fire Apparatus) directive for firefighting vehicles, fully automatic transmissions are mandatory for heavy firefighting vehicles. In its solicitation, the U.S. Army does not only specify fully automatic transmissions, it also identifies bespoke emergency vehicle transmission software.

“A fully automatic transmission will only properly benefit the driver during operation if the shift pattern is tuned to the vehicle and the transmission works together effectively with the driver. It has to meet the specific mission for emergency response,” said Mack.

Improved Acceleration and Higher Average Speed

Allison fully automatic transmissions differ from other technologies. Among other factors, they have specially developed shift calibration programs for the fire and rescue application. When combined with continuous power-shifting, this results in improved acceleration, higher average speed and faster response times.

The transmissions shift smoothly at precisely the right moment, allowing the driver to concentrate fully”

The fully automatic Allison transmission with its patented torque converter and Continuous Power Technology™ multiplies engine torque during vehicle start-up and acceleration. Gear changes are made without interruption, resulting in the smooth transfer of power to the drive wheels and maximum efficiency between engine and transmission.

“The transmissions shift smoothly at precisely the right moment, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on the road, which contributes significantly to accident prevention,” said Mack.

“In addition, to have competent and highly skilled service technicians, as well as spare parts service locally available greatly limits down time and contributes to our readiness,” said Mack. “The transmission manufacturer infrastructure has also supported our goals so far in this regard.”

Reliability and Durability In Extremely Difficult Conditions

The oldest Allison transmissions in the fire brigade of the U.S. Army in Germany have clocked up over 30 years of service

Allison fully automatic transmissions have demonstrated their outstanding reliability and durability under extremely difficult conditions and are consequently used by numerous fire brigade fleets worldwide. There are currently about 70 Allison fully automated vehicles in the fire truck fleet of the U.S. Army in Germany.

The oldest Allison transmissions in the fire brigade of the U.S. Army in Germany have clocked up over 30 years of service. In 2007, the drivetrain components from 12 older Amertek 2500L trucks were removed and installed into 12 overhauled firefighting trucks, so called “glider kits.” The Detroit diesel engines and Allison HT 750 DRD transmissions of the Amertek 2500L trucks, which at that time were already around 25 years old, were fitted to a new HME 1871 SFO chassis with a body made by Hensel.

Glider Kits Used For Multi-Purpose Vehicles For Firefighting

“In the USA, general vehicle overhaul is a recognised procedure for vehicle maintenance and service life extension. The engines and transmissions, especially in fire trucks, are still in relatively good working condition and have proven to be very reliable, even after a long period of time. This contributed to the decision for a service life extension,” said Mack.

Compared to a new purchase, the “glider kits” helped to save approx. 80,000 – 100,000 USD per vehicle without compromising the functionality. The “glider kits” are used as multi-purpose vehicles for firefighting and for providing technical assistance.

www.allisontransmission.com/

Dräger reaffirms commitment to Aberdeen operations

by Projects
Dräger (or Draeger) Marine and Offshore, a division of The Dräger Group, has confirmed a new phase of investment in its Aberdeen office.

The latest phase of investment will focus on significantly expanding the company’s rental fleet of offshore safety equipment, which includes its fire and rescue apparatus. The company’s safety products are employed by many operators in the North Sea, and its Aberdeen base is home to the UK’s largest direct to customer rental fleet of Dräger equipment with over 1600 items.

The company has also announced the appointment of David Donaldson to head up its Marine and Offshore UK office, based in Aberdeen. Twenty five staff are based at the Aberdeen office, which in addition to its rental fleet, is also home to an international offshore safety training academy and state of the art service workshop. Dräger is the only safety manufacturer with a base in Aberdeen, and the firm also has premises at Grangemouth.

Donaldson, who brings to the company over 30 years’ experience working in the offshore, oil and gas industries, said: “Dräger has had a presence in Aberdeen for almost ten years, and the company has weathered many challenges through this time. The ongoing investment in Aberdeen reaffirms our commitment to the local business community, as well as our staff, who have been working hard to maintain our customers’ critical safety operations throughout lockdown.”

As well as continuing to service offshore equipment such as rigs throughout lockdown, Dräger staff have also adapted safety training courses to be delivered online to enable its customers to continue operationally-critical work during the pandemic.

The adoption of new technology has resulted in Dräger Marine and Offshore winning a new contract to install the largest wireless gas detection system ever employed by a North Sea operator. Work will commence on the project, which includes the installation of over 120 wireless gas detectors, in September, and will be fully operational by November.

Donaldson concluded: “Despite the great challenges that face the oil and gas industry as a result of Covid-19, there is growing optimism for the future, particularly amongst medium-sized organisations that are large and robust enough to weather the storm, but small and nimble enough to respond to new and emerging opportunities that the current crisis is presenting. We see real opportunity in this area of the market, and look forward to playing our part in supporting future growth here as business starts to resume.”

www.draeger.com/