Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Each vehicle has a different reuirement, which is why our team produces a bespoke hazard analysis, based on your vehicle type and intended opperating conditions.

Where possible, we always recommend the use of dual agent systems to protect mobile equipment against the risk of fire. For passanger vehicles, we typically recommend a dry chemical system.

Our preference in 'Dual Agent', comes from our experience in the industry. Although the dry chemical suppression agent provides effective knock-down and coverage, the cooling capabilities of dry chemical are limited. With plant machinery, components like turbochargers and exhaust manifolds can become superheated during normal operation, posing a risk of fire re-ignition afer the system is discharged. Wet chemical agent is therefore introduced to reduce the temperature of these components to below the auto-ignition temperature of diesel, significantly reducing the chances of potential re-igniton.

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. Our full hazard analysis maps out at-risk ancillaries outside of the engine compartment, in addition to those within.  Examples of hazards may include: the transmitter, battery compartment, belly pan, any high-pressure hoses andalso hydraulic pumps. The hazard identification process identifies the areas within the plant that pose a fire risk, and the system is then bespokely designed based on this information. 

In the context of a vehicle, a fire can re-ignite for several reasons:

• Residual Heat in Components: Parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, wiring, or fuel system, can retain heat even after flames are extinguished. If these components reach their ignition temperature again, they can reignite.

• Flammable Materials: Vehicles often contain various flammable materials, such as plastics, upholstery, and fluids (like gasoline or oil). If these materials are not fully cooled or if embers are present, they can catch fire again.

• Poor Ventilation: If the vehicle is in an enclosed space, such as in a mine or on a waste site, lack of airflow can lead to a buildup of flammable gases, which can ignite if exposed to a spark or sufficient heat.

• Electrical Issues: Electrical components can short-circuit or fail, creating sparks that could ignite nearby materials.

• Fire Suppression Method: Some suppression methods might not fully eliminate the heat or the potential for reignition, especially if they focus on extinguishing visible flames but do not adequately cool underlying materials.

Our hazard Identification process is acomprehensive analysis or your machine/s, environments and operational conditions.

You can read more about out Fire Hazard Identification process here.

In 2023 we released Ardent Academy. Ardent Academy is our in-house training resource, covering essential topics, including in-depth system training and daily checks for operators. We are working to ensure that your team is equipped to maximise safety and efficiency on your site. With a focus on practical application and real-world scenarios, Ardent Academy is a go-to resource for mastering our fire suppression solutions and fostering a culture of safety.

Get in touch to see how we can help you.