Advanced Detection Systems for AFV Transit Vehicle Maintenance, Storage, & Fueling Facilities

As alternative-fueled vehicle (AFV) municipal transit bus systems continue to evolve and grow, the maintenance, storage and refueling facilities for AFV buses and vehicles will also require upgrade to ensure adequate and proper flammable vapor and fire detection systems are provided. The evolution of alternative-fuel engines, from diesel to natural gas to hydrogen, presents the facility fire protection engineer with a unique challenge: ensure that the facility and its contents are adequately protected against a potential variety of invisible, odorless fire risks. Proper application of modern flammable gas and optical flame detectors is a key consideration when designing a facility protection system intended to detect and prevent a devastating gas explosion and fire. This paper will provide an overview of AFV facility hazards, the optimum gas and flame detection technologies, and the benefits delivered by these new detection technologies.