WoodTechProtect

Fire damage to wood processing machines

In wood processing plants, essential work processes such as sawing, planing or sanding of wood or wood-based materials are performed by automated processing machines. These machines are equipped with exhaust devices and connected to dust extraction systems. This means that fires can spread quickly to other production areas. Extended operational disruptions and high costs are often the result. From the perspective of an operator, a solution which detects fires quickly and fights them targeted on the wood processing machine and related exhaust devices is required. In addition, a protection concept which allows for coordinated fire protection for interlinking production areas would be desirable. Minimax has the right solution: WoodTechProtect.

Advantages at a glance

Holistic solution across all processes and for all areas by a single provider
A comprehensive solution prevents fire from spreading to adjacent areas
All fire protections systems are integrated into one network through a common fire detection and extinguishing control panel
Firefighting in the early stages of an emerging fire enables minor fire and water damage and brief business interruptions
Low costs for water supply and pipe network installation
Ideal for retrofitting

Structure

Fire protection for wood processing machines is provided by Minifog ProCon water mist systems, while exhaust devices are best protected by spark extinguishing systems. Joint water supply and joint fire detection and extinguishing control panel can be provided for both systems.

Fire detection and extinguishing control

WoodTechProtect combines fire detection, water mist and spark extinguishing technology to form a holistic solution. This combination provides fire protection which is tailored individually to the requirements of the various protection zones. The FMZ 5000 fire detection and extinguishing control panel is responsible for controlling the fire event. If flame detectors of the Minifog ProCon water mist system or spark detectors of the spark extinguishing system detect a fire, they transmit a signal to the fire detection control panel. It activates the affected extinguishing zone and triggers the extinguishing action; and simultanously releases an acoustic and optical alarm. In addition, potential free contacts are available at the fire detection and extinguishing control panel to switch off the machine controls in the event of a fault or fire.

Sprinkler Systems Spark extinguishing Systems Detection

Sprinkler Systems

Sprinkler Systems provide a dependable basic protection for production halls where the wood processing machines have been set up. To protect the actual wood processing machines against fire, Minifog ProCon water mist systems offer a particularly efficient fire extinguishing technology. Minifog ProCon extinguishing nozzles serve to finely spray the extinguishing water. Accordingly, systems can be designed with a smaller scale water supply and pipework. This does not only save costs, but also space - a significant advantage in particular for retrofitting.

Spark extinguishing Systems

Picture of an Spark extinguishing System

In exhaust- and conveyor systems, spark extinguishing systems detect ignition sources and instantly generate a water curtain by means of an extinguishing unit to extinguish sparks or glowing particles. They are always an ideal solution when there is a high risk that sparks or glowing embers will be transported unnoticed to other areas and cause a fire there.

Detection

Picture of UniVario flame detectors and spark detectors

UniVario flame detectors and spark detectors are used in the protection zones. Both types of detectors allow for the early detection of fires and hence for a fast response. All signals converge in the fire detection and extinguishing control panel, which warns people at risk and the fire department plus dependable provides all relevant information to the competent bodies. In addition, the fire detection control panel electrically triggers the Minifog ProCon and spark suppression systems. Furthermore, it can operate other fire protection systems in the vicinity of the wood processing machines and monitor their functioning.