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.