Fire Station complies with NFPA code 13 as per the requirements of MSHA 75.1100. The system can provide protection for belt take-up areas, drive units, hydraulic boxes, head pulleys and starter boxes.

The modular design of the system allows for rapid installation. Components are built for each application and come pre-designed and pre-cut to help eliminate costly field modification. Pillar Innovations provides training as well as full installation to meet customer requirements.

Fire Station brackets install with J-bolts for quick fastening. The stations are installed by positioning the pre-cut pipe into place and attaching with the provided couplings. Then, the next bracket is positioned six to eight feet away and the steps are repeated.

Fire Station includes a test kit to quickly monitor routine pressure tests with the easy-to-read gauge. Next the system’s starter kit manifold is tied in to the main water source and the system is ready to protect the belt from fire.

All valves, gauges and piping are included in the system and provide protection above the belt, between the belts and to adjacent areas. Motor brackets are installed over the drive units to provide protection over the motors.

There are currently more than 25 Fire Station installations across the US. Pillar Innovations said it would work with every mine’s district Mine Safety and Health Administration officials to meet local requirements regarding fire suppression.

Pillar Innovations’ parent company, Beitzel Corporation, already has a background and certifications for fire suppression design. In its home state of Maryland it is a licensed sprinkler contractor for Class I and Class IIIc – the former permitting the company to maintain, test or inspect any type of sprinkler system, and the latter to design, install, repair and modify them.

Pillar Innovations will be showing at Longwall USA, June 5-7.