Driving innovation: Midland Fire pushes boundaries in Autosmart warehouse project
Midland Fire Security Services was contracted earlier this year by Elsym Installations Ltd as the specialist fire alarm company for Autosmart International.
This recently completed project stands out for its incorporation of advanced fire safety technologies, including the use of aspiration systems, intrinsically safe detection and beam sensors, all adhering to category L1 for maximum protection to life.
Advanced Fire Safety Systems for Warehouse Management
In the world of warehouse management, ensuring robust fire safety measures is paramount. Being specialists in the field, Midland Fire were called in to upgrade and implement the fire safety systems in Autosmart’s new factory and warehouse in Burntwood.
Starting with a six-week upgrade of the factory’s fire alarm system to L1 standards interfacing to Excel production equipment, a further six weeks were then dedicated to the installation of an L1 system in the new warehouse.
The entire project, encompassing both buildings and the eventual integration of a third fire alarm control panel in the site’s gatehouse, was completed within five months.
Dedication to innovation
Based in Staffordshire, Autosmart specialises in the manufacture and distribution of high-quality vehicle cleaning and detailing products. The company provides an extensive range of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses ranging from car dealerships to transport companies and mobile valeting services. They offer a wide range of products and take pride in their reputation for high customer satisfaction and focus on sustainability.
But what really makes Autosmart stand out? Its commitment to innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development to ensure that its products are of the highest quality and always incorporate the latest advancements in cleaning technology.
So, when Midland Fire were called in, we knew we had to shift things up a gear.
The Wagner system
To develop a system safe for ATEX-rated areas at the Autosmart site, our team used the Wagner aspiration system as its foundation.
The Wagner system is an early warning smoke detection system used in particularly challenging or high-sensitivity applications where early detection of smoke is critical for safety to life as well as property protection.
The Wagner aspiration technology draws air samples from throughout the space via a network of sampling pipes and ports into a detection chamber for analysis. Sophisticated detection algorithms and sensors are used to differentiate between normal airborne particulates and smoke particles, and if indicators of a fire are detected, the alarm is triggered. Being fully customisable, we were able to tailor it to suit the specific requirements and challenges of Autosmart’s warehouse.
FIREBEAM beam sensors
Autosmart’s buildings also needed some bespoke fire safety solutions to suit their industrial nature.
Beam sensors were chosen for the high-level warehouse areas for reliable smoke detection, helping to ensure early warning and prompt response to potential fire hazards. They’re suitable for large spaces where traditional point-type smoke detectors may not be as effective due to the height and layout of the area, making them the perfect fit for Autosmart’s expansive warehouses.
The sensors consist of two main components: an emitter unit and a receiver unit. The emitter unit emits a beam of infrared light, and the receiver unit detects the beam. When smoke particles enter the space between the emitter and receiver units, they scatter the light beam. The receiver unit detects this scattered light, triggering the alarm system to indicate the presence of smoke or fire.
Advanced MX Pro 5 control panels with Apollo XP95 devices
At the Autosmart site, a comprehensive fire detection and alarm solution was chosen, consisting of the Advanced MX Pro 5 control panel paired with Apollo XP95 devices. These were selected for their advanced features, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of building applications.
The Advanced MX Pro 5 control panel is a sophisticated fire alarm control panel manufactured by Advanced Electronics, offering features such as an addressable system, networking capabilities and an event log. Apollo XP95 devices, manufactured by Apollo Fire Detectors, are compatible with the control panel, and are known for their high reliability and performance.
A note from Dean Middleton, Wagner Group
We have worked with Midland Fire Security Services on a number of different projects. From design to install and commissioning, we always find them to be a professional and knowledgeable company. On the Autosmart project, it was no different. We visited the site together to work out the best solution for each area. Being an ATEX-rated area, we used the Wagner Pro-Sens aspirating system complete with Detonation Prevention Devices to provide a system suitable for the area.
The installation team at Midland Fire are knowledgeable in our equipment, and it was installed and commissioned professionally. ATEX areas can be challenging, but with the use of Wagner equipment and working hand in hand with Midland Fire, this project was completed without a hitch. We look forward to working together again on future projects.
Looking for Comprehensive Fire Safety Solutions Tailored to Your Needs?
At Midland Fire, we’ll work with you to plan and deliver the optimum fire safety solution for your premises, including ongoing maintenance, support, and fire safety training. At Midland Fire WE PROTECT.
For more information and a free consultation contact Midland Fire Security Services Ltd.
