Johnson Controls has launched the ANSUL® N-101 Clean Agent Vehicle Fire Suppression System, a solution that is specially designed to protect energised electrical equipment inside unoccupied electrical cabinets on board heavy industrial vehicles.

Using a naturally occurring zero-global warming potential (0 GWP) nitrogen agent, the ANSUL N-101 system provides a sustainable and electrically non-conductive fire suppression solution for Class C and E vehicle hazards in mining, forestry, heavy construction and other industries, the company says.

Kristin Ryczek, Global Product Manager – Vehicle Fire Suppression Systems, Johnson Controls, said: “Heavy work vehicles operate for long periods in harsh, rugged environments and require reliable on-board fire protection to help safeguard the most vital, fire-prone electrical equipment. With ANSUL’s long history of using inert gases, like nitrogen for successful building protection applications, it makes sense for us to apply those same proven concepts to a system designed specifically for the rugged mobile equipment industry.”

The ANSUL N-101 suppression solution leaves no residue or by-products, according to the company. This means it will not cause damage to the protected electrical assets nor require clean-up because of discharge, making it a better option for people, equipment and the planet.

With an operational range of -54°C- 99°C, a simplified single-tank, single-nozzle design and heavy-gauge steel bracket construction, the system is engineered to withstand the harsh conditions found in rugged industrial environments. The system’s nitrogen cartridge is equipped with an electric-pneumatic actuator and is available in two sizes, 0.65 cu.m and 1.56 cu.m, to support a wide range of vehicle applications.

Johnson Controls has further enhanced the performance of the ANSUL N-101 Clean Agent System by using a hydraulic hose distribution line and 360° nozzle, it says. This equipment enables the system to flood the electrical enclosure quickly and efficiently, and reduce the oxygen content within that space, even when un-closable openings are present, the company claims.

Johnson Controls developed the ANSUL N-101 Clean Agent Vehicle Fire Suppression System for use with ANSUL CHECKFIRE detection and actuation systems. It can be used as a standalone system in combination with automatic detection/releasing, or as part of a complete vehicle protection solution.