Protecting Hygiene Operations from Fire Risks

Hygiene

Proactively Addressing Fire Risks in Absorbent Material Production

Fire Safety Solutions for Hygiene Manufacturing

The production of absorbent materials like diapers and sanitary products involves treated wood pulp processed in a vacuum system, creating a highly flammable mix of air and wood dust. Elevated temperatures in this environment can ignite fires with devastating consequences, including damage to stored products, production halts, and significant financial losses.

Firefly’s tailored fire protection solutions are designed to detect and neutralize sparks or hot particles generated by machinery before they reach filters or storage areas. Utilizing advanced suppression techniques such as CO2, water, or airflow alteration, these systems effectively mitigate fire risks. By implementing proactive fire safety measures, hygiene manufacturers can ensure uninterrupted production, protect valuable assets, and minimize costly downtime.

Identifying the Problems and Solutions

The Problems

  • High Risk of Dust Explosions: Combustible particles dispersed in the air can lead to powerful explosions, causing extensive damage and fires
  • Specific Hazards in Diaper Manufacturing: Vacuum systems used to suction pulp onto polymer films create environments similar to dust extractors, increasing explosion risks
  • Low Ignition Temperatures: Cellulose layers ignite at 270°C, while cellulose dust clouds ignite at 480°C, with even lower temperatures potentially sparking fires
  • Equipment Malfunctions: Overfeeding in mills and mechanical failures can act as ignition sources, exacerbating risks
  • Threats to Product and Plant Safety: Dust explosions endanger both the safety of facilities and the integrity of manufactured products, leading to costly damages and downtime

The Solutions

  • Rapid Spark and Hot Particle Detection: Use IR-radiation detection to identify ignition sources before they reach critical areas
  • Quick Extinguishing Systems: Neutralize sparks and hot particles with CO2, water, or airflow diversion to prevent escalation
  • Airflow Isolation: Divert contaminated airflow to reduce the spread of ignition sources and minimize risks
  • Proactive Filter Protection: Install systems to intercept and extinguish potential fire hazards before they reach filters or sensitive equipment
  • Comprehensive Fire Safety Integration: Combine detection and suppression systems to ensure seamless protection and uninterrupted production

Firefly Quick Suppression System

While premium filter systems have significantly reduced the risk of dust explosions, the threat of fire within hygiene manufacturing facilities persists. The Firefly Quick Suppression System is specifically engineered for ultra-fast fire detection and suppression in high-risk areas such as filters and mill rooms.

This advanced system utilizes optical flame detectors optimized for dusty environments. With a 180-degree field of view and high flame sensitivity, these detectors quickly identify flames inside filters while remaining unaffected by daylight. The detection is paired with a non-invasive, low-pressure water mist suppression system, which efficiently suppresses flames with minimal water usage, ensuring effective fire control without impacting sensitive equipment or processes.

Firefly suppression osprey.

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