The forestry industry has come a long way with safety and comfort for its equipment and trained operators. With the advancement of technology, engineers have developed forestry equipment that promotes comfort and usability. Unfortunately, the one drawback is the creation of a hazard regarding flammability. When hydraulic hoses rupture due to intense operation, the hydraulic fluid creates combustibility issues. The accumulation of forest debris on the rear compartments of these vehicles not only creates the conditions for this to happen; it makes it difficult for early detection of the resulting fire. Early detection is vital in stopping these occurrences before they worsen and damage the entire vehicle.

Heavy Equipment Losses

The primary cause of the loss of used forestry equipment is fire. The deprivation of this heavy equipment translates to capital and production losses. Since blazes seem to be a common problem for these vehicles, some companies have designed fire detection systems to identify these flare-ups before they consume the entire machine. There are companies that specialize in fire detection systems for used forestry equipment. This method can detect flames that originate from the engine, hydraulic fluid and wood debris that often remain hidden in the rear compartment of the vehicle.

Fire Detection System

The fire detection system can be configured and installed at any time. It has three separate heat sensing detectors that can be installed in two different locations. Two detectors are installed in the engine compartment and the third is placed on the main hydraulic system. The detectors can be set to a certain level so that if the temperature exceeds the established limit, a warning light and horn will be triggered to alert the operator. If the vehicle’s alarm is activated, the driver should automatically turn off the engine, switch the battery disconnect switch to ‘Off’ and get out of the vehicle.

Extinguishing Fires

In case a blaze is detected by the alarm system, operators should bring an extinguisher or suppression system hose (if available) with them when getting out of the cab. It is important to be cautious when dealing with flames since it could be life-threatening. To use the extinguisher, the operator can easily use the PASS (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep) method to extinguish the blaze. Aim the nozzle into the access hole and discharge the retardant. If given the chance, open all access panels and discharge the extinguishing substance on any openings to ensure that the blaze is completely stopped.

Fire hazards are present when driving heavy-duty forestry trucks. This may be due to forest debris that accumulates on the back of the machine, comes in contact with the increased temperature of certain engine components, and ignites a flare-up of the material. To protect these vehicles from such a sudden occurrence, blaze detection systems have been developed to alert the driver to act before the problem increases, damaging the truck and putting the safety of the driver at risk. It is critical to have a fire detection system installed in the vehicle because detecting a fire in forestry equipment will help save capital and prevent production loss!