Fireward Display JCB JS20MH Fire Suppression System at RWM 2022

Fireward displayed a mobile plant fire suppression system installed on a JCB JS20MH material handler. The machine was showcased on the Fireward stand to RWM & Letsrecycle Live 2022 to demonstrate how automatic fire suppression protects machinery operating in high risk waste processing environments. 

Following the exhibition, the machine was delivered to The Wastemasters Group, where it is now operating on a busy waste processing site.

Material handlers are essential machines within the waste and recycling industry and often operate for long hours moving and sorting waste. Waste processing facilities handle large volumes of combustible materials including construction waste, commercial waste, wood and metal. With continuous operation and demanding workloads, the risk of fire is significant. Installing mobile plant fire suppression systems helps protect machines working in these high risk environments.

Dual Agent Fire Suppression for the JCB JS20MH

The JCB JS20MH used by The Wastemasters Group is protected by a dual agent automatic fire suppression system, designed specifically for mobile plant operating in waste processing environments.

How the Dual Agent system works

The Dual Agent system combines two suppression agents to deliver rapid fire knockdown and effective cooling:

Dry Powder rapidly extinguishes flames and suppresses hidden fires in hard to reach areas.

Wet Chemical cools hot surfaces and helps prevent the fire from reigniting after suppression.

This combination makes dual agent automatic fire suppression systems highly effective for protecting material handlers operating in waste facilities.

Pneumatic Fire Detection for Rapid Activation

The system uses pneumatic fire detection tubing installed around high risk areas of the machine.

When temperatures reach 180°C, the UL approved detection tube bursts at the hottest point. This causes a pressure drop which automatically opens the system valve and activates the suppression system.

Both agents discharge simultaneously, extinguishing the fire within seconds and significantly reducing the chances of reignition.

Additional Fire Safety Features

In-Cab Monitor - Alerts the operator that a fire has been detected and the system has activated
Manual Actuator - Allows the operator to manually activate the system in an emergency
Battery Isolator - Prevents electrical fires by cutting off the battery
Engine Shutdown - Stops the engine automatically to remove fuel sources and reduce fire spread

 The image above features the manual actuator which is visible by the red button.

These safety features work alongside the mobile plant fire suppression system to provide complete fire protection for the JCB JS20MH.

Fire Risks in Waste Handling Machinery

Waste processing environments contain large volumes of combustible materials including plastics, paper, wood and mixed waste streams. Material handlers operate continuously in dusty and high temperature conditions where hydraulic leaks, electrical faults or overheated components can easily ignite surrounding waste. Without proper protection, fires can spread quickly through both the machine and nearby waste piles.

Built-in Fire Protection for Material Handlers

Installing mobile plant automatic fire suppression systems on machines such as the JCB JS20MH provides immediate protection against fire risks. With pneumatic fire detection and dual agent automatic fire suppression, fires are detected and suppressed automatically, helping reduce equipment damage, minimise downtime and improve safety in waste processing environments.

Protect your equipment with Fireward’s automatic fire suppression systems.