WATER MIST SUPPRESSION SYSTEM | FIRE SAFETY
● SPCR 197 - independently approved non-electric detection mechanism, which adds a critical layer of reliability.
● AS5062 - aligns with stringent Australian mining and tunnel equipment standards.
Each certification represents extensive testing to ensure the system performs effectively in real-world conditions. Therefore, the certifications are not check boxes but result from rigorous validation in environments that simulate actual fire scenarios.
TRENDS IN FIRE SUPPRESSION FOR TUNNELLING The evolution of fire suppression technology in tunnelling is about more than compliance; it is about meeting the growing complexity of tunnel construction and operations.
1. Fixed and Mobile Suppression Systems Tunnels present unique fire risks, from vehicle fires to overheating electrical systems. Unlike mining, where mobile equipment fire suppression is the primary concern, tunnelling requires fixed suppression systems for tunnel infrastructure and also mobile systems for equipment during the construction phase, such as tunnel boring machines (TBMs), drill rigs, locomotives, and transformers. We see a growing trend of integrating fire suppression
into tunnel projects from the early construction phase, ensuring protection for mobile equipment during excavation and fixed infrastructure for the long-term operational lives of the underground assets.
2. High-Performance in Harsh Environments Tunnel environments are extreme, with high temperatures, confined spaces, and continuous vibrations. This requires suppression systems that: ● Function under high pressure to ensure mist penetration in complex areas.
● They are resistant to shock, vibration, and corrosion. ● They are compact and lightweight, without adding excessive weight to vehicles.
Technology has been developed to enable water mist systems to function at high pressure, ensuring complete and adequate fire suppression, even in the most challenging tunnel conditions.
3. Toward Sustainable Suppression Agents Environmental considerations are driving a shift away from chemical-based suppression agents. Foam-based systems have been widely used, but many have been linked to long-term ecological contamination. Fogmaker’s Eco 1 water-based suppression fluid
is 100% PFAS-free and certified by GreenScreen (see box). With increasing restrictions on chemical-based suppression agents, tunnel operators must adopt future- proof solutions that align with global sustainability regulations.
4. Fire Prevention as a Non-Negotiable Requirement Regulations around fire suppression in tunnel operations are becoming stricter, making suppression systems mandatory rather than optional safety measures. Demand and solutions include: ● Many tunnel authorities are now mandating fire suppression systems in underground mobile equipment.
● Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are integrating fire suppression as a standard feature in new machines.
● The adoption of intelligent monitoring systems for real-time detection and remote diagnostics is increasing.
As fire risk mitigation becomes a regulatory standard, operators must move beyond outdated suppression technologies and embrace modern, high-performance solutions.
March 2025 | 41
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53
