Andrews M J1, Brown A C1 and Smith T2
1 Halcrow Group Ltd 2 Anglian Water Services Ltd
Risks of thermal drying municipal sludge are now well documented and, in considering them, it is generally accepted that an initial ‘over- cautious’ approach is sensible. Despite this there is continuing pressure on the Water Industry to improve operational and capital efficiencies. One such improvement is the potential for thermal drying installations to be run in full automatic mode with little or no manning. Suppliers now offer a range of support to alleviate the operational burden ranging from maintenance support to remote monitoring and control. However, to offer operational staff the confidence to run this type of technology overnight and unattended it may be necessary to install additional fire protection.
The testing of fire protection systems, therefore, becomes a critical part of a safe operating plant that operators feel happy with. In this paper we report how a water deluge system and fire detection system was designed installed and tested for a municipal belt dryer. Fire detection systems tested included thermal sensors, carbon monoxide detectors, oxygen monitors and smoke detection. As part of the testing of the system, fires were deliberately started, in a controlled manner, to test both the monitoring and suppression systems. This paper details the methodology adopted for the design and testing of a fire protection system. This paper also highlights the experiences in commissioning the protection system and identifies some difficulties encountered in delivering an engineered solution.
KEY WORDS Fire protection, fire suppression, carbon monoxide, smoke detection, unattended dryer operation, safety.
Aqua Enviro Ltd
T: 0113 8730728
c/o Tidal Accounting, HQ Offices, Radley House, Richardshaw Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 6LE