Pre-ignition detection and early fire detection in mining vehicles

ABSTRACT

With an increasing demand for early detection of mining vehicle fires, the question is how an early detection could be achieved? Data from cone calorimeter tests and incident summary data were applied when analysing possible fire detection solutions on mining vehicles. Based on the tests, pre-ignition and post-ignition solutions in the cab and the engine compartment were analysed and presented. If overcoming the challenges of the environment, smoke sensors could for example be a potential pre-ignition detector in engine compartments. Based on the incident summaries, clues on detectable traces, etc., were identified and a discussion on the types of sensors for various types of vehicles and sections was provided. Fires in for example the turbo/exhaust area and engine compartment, could be detected prior to ignition using gas sensors to detect the emitted hydrocarbons or an oil mist detection system.

KEYWORDS:

• Pre-ignition
• fire detection
• mining vehicle
• cone calorimeter
• incident summary
• smoke detection
• underground mine
• surface mine

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank and acknowledge the contributions of the members of Earth Moving Equipment Safety Round Table (EMESRT) for providing valuable comments and the support from the Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Availability of data and material

Available upon request.