Fire Suppression System: Description and Operation

Engine Protection System

Authoring Template

Fire Suppression System - Description & Operation + Maintenance

Supplier
S.P.A. Design Ltd., Common Barn,

Installer
LAND ROVER SPECIAL VEHICLES, Solihull.

System description and operation

WARNING: Failure to follow the manufacturers instructions can damage or degrade this system and the vehicle in which it is installed. The system uses AFFF fire suppressant Unauthorised modifications to this system are not permitted. The manufacturer does not accept any responsibility for this system in the event that unapproved modifications are made and / or the maintenance regime is not adhered to.

The purpose of this system is to suppress underbonnet fires. It has both manual and automatic operation. The system is stand-alone and has no electrical interface to the vehicle wiring.

The system comprises of a 4 liter, non pressurised cylinder containing AFFF fire suppressant (mounted in the rear luggage area). A gas generator cartridge is fitted to one end of the cylinder with electrical connection to the control module. At the other end of the cylinder is the outlet which is connected to a pipe which conveys the suppressant to several nozzles located in the engine bay.

Typical engine bay nozzle





The system is controlled by means of a control module (located in the rear luggage area) with integral 9 volt battery. When armed, the system may be activated as follows:- Instructions for routine testing of the system are contained in the maintenance of the vehicle handbook.

Automatically-when a special cable installed on the underside of the bonnet is activated at 180 degrees C.

Underbonnet fire detection cable





Manually - by pressing the red button on the switch pack mounted on the center console.

NOTE: The key in the control module must be in the "system armed" position otherwise the system will not function.

Maintenance

NOTE: The key in the control module must be in the "off/check" position when undertaking system checks otherwise the system will be triggered.

AFFF cylinder replacement - disconnect the electrical connection to the gas generator; disconnect the outlet hose from the cylinder. Note that the hose connections are of the "quick-release" type and the black collar of the connector must be pushed in to release the hose.

Straight hose lock connector





After usage - replace 9 volt battery, replace gas generator and AFFF cylinder, any other components damaged during the operation of the system (eg hoses, heat sensitive underbonnet cable etc)

Every 6 months - carry out system and battery check; check expiry date on AFFF cylinder and replace as necessary.

Every 12 months - replace 9 volt battery.