Spark Detection System Stops Dust Collector Fire

A dust collector fire at an Indiana wood office furniture manufacturer was prevented from spreading when a spark detection and extinguishing system kicked in, quelling the growing blaze, the Dubois County [IA] Herald reported.

Responding to a call of a possible dust collector fire at the Jasper Desk Co. at 11:12 a.m. Thursday, the Jasper County Volunteer Fire Department found that pieces of veneer and wood had jammed in the entrance of the site’s dust collection system, igniting a small fire as the material overheated, the newspaper said.

A Flamex spark detection and extinguishing system at the site kicked into action, extinguishing the flames before they reached a nearby sawdust bin, according to the Herald.

“As soon as (the Flamex system) sees something hot, it will mist out water at it to prevent the sawdust from getting to the bin on fire,” Fire Chief Kenny Hochgesang told the newspaper. “It worked the way it was supposed to.”

Absent the spark detection and extinguishing system, Hochgesang said the flames would have reached the sawdust bin, potentially causing a bigger incident.

“This definitely saved them a good day’s production, probably,” said Hochgesang.

No damage was incurred at the plant.

Click here for information about the PBS Toronto event, May 16-18, 2017

For more articles, news, and equipment reviews, visit our Equipment Zones