One Company’s Solution for Keeping Exhaust out of Firehouses
Diesel exhaust emissions can spread toxic gases and fine particles throughout a firehouse anytime a diesel-fueled engine is operated. Most people know that exposure to this type of pollution can increase the risk for contracting disabling or fatal diseases such as cancer and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) says diesel exhaust should be considered a potential occupational carcinogen, based on animal and human evidence.
What effect are these toxins having on the health of firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who work, and sometimes sleep and eat in firehouses? Diesel engines are operated in those facilities year-round, day-in and day-out. Shouldn’t modern technology provide a safe and efficient way to protect those personnel from this health danger?
Can protection be provided?
There are several types of exhaust removal systems marketed to the fire services. Many of them are inadequate because they remove only a portion of the toxic air contaminants. Those solutions that consist of fans and air vents do very little to reduce exposure to the hazardous toxins. Likewise, vacuum systems mounted above vehicles obviously do not capture all of the exhaust emissions and the harmful gases and particulates are able to spread throughout the firehouse.
The International Mechanical Code for new construction specifically states: “Areas in which stationary motor vehicles are operated shall be provided with a source capture system that connects directly to the motor vehicle exhaust system.”
Equipment such as an under-body attachment that replaces a vehicle’s muffler, is inadequate because it only “filters”— and does not “eliminate”—the exhaust emissions. These attachments filter out particulates or solid substances, but do not capture the gaseous toxins that are released into the air.
These devices may reduce the appearance of smoke, but the harmful gases in diesel exhaust such as CO (carbon monoxide), VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and HC (hydrocarbon) are invisible… but deadly. In addition, muffler replacement equipment requires frequent and costly filter cleaning or replacement. Surprisingly, some fire departments are paying much more for these devices than the cost of a source-capture system that is guaranteed 100% effective.
Most occupational health agencies recommend a source capture system that connects directly to a vehicle’s tailpipe and is capable of removing 100% of the contaminants. If the system does not capture 100% of the gases and particulates, it is not as efficient as it should be.
In today’s market there are several firms that manufacture source capture systems and make the claim of removing 100% of exhaust emissions. However, not all of these systems are created equal. Some are complicated in design and not user-friendly, some require extra attachments and equipment to operate, some do not disconnect easily, etc.
An analysis of the source capture category, shows that one system proves to be easiest to use, requires the least maintenance, and has hundreds of installations to verify its reliability and durability; it is the MagneGripTM Exhaust Extraction System.
MagneGrip systems have the most advanced technology when it comes to capturing and removing diesel pollutants. When MagneGrip systems are installed, they safely and efficiently capture 100% of the diesel exhaust emissions produced by an apparatus operating in the firehouse. This guarantees that no harmful gases or particulates are going to escape into the air.
What makes better technology?
MagneGrip improved the “100% source-capture” design by making it less complex and easier and safer to use. The manufacturers of MagneGrip have a patented design that eliminates the need for compressors, air lines, gauges, electrical system support and other extraneous equipment. This type of equipment continues to be standard on the source-capture systems of some manufacturers.
Because MagneGrip’s advanced technology systems use fewer components, they offer end-users three important benefits:
- They are less costly up front;
- They are simpler to operate; and
- They require less maintenance year-after-year than more complex systems.
A core feature of the MagneGrip system is its universal nozzle. The nozzle incorporates rare-earth magnet assemblies to hold the nozzle in place and provide a no-leak seal. When the apparatus leaves the station on call, the nozzle remains attached until the apparatus’ tailpipe reaches the doorway; then it automatically releases. The nozzle disconnects easily and smoothly, and a cable gently retracts the hose and nozzle away from the exit.
Another unique advantage of MagneGrip’s patented nozzle is its oneway check valve, which allows outside air to enter the nozzle, but seals against backwash of exhaust fumes. Outside air mixing with the exhaust provides cooler nozzle and hose operation and less wear. It also reduces negative air pressure on the apparatus when not running. This protects the apparatus from the turbo spinning without lubrication.
The efficiency and consistent fail-safe performance of MagneGrip’s “friction release” design has been proved in hundreds of installations nationwide. The MagneGrip nozzle has demonstrated its reliability for releasing at the same point time after time. These installations have also shown that MagneGrip systems are quality built to provide many years of dependable service in the firehouse.
A System for Every Firehouse
MagneGrip manufacturers four different types of exhaust extraction systems because firehouse/apparatus configurations vary and the purpose and use of the vehicles therein vary from department to department. The following systems meet the needs of most fire service and EMS facilities:
1.) Sliding Balancer Track (SBT) System – This system meets the needs of most firehouses. It can be installed in each bay for one vehicle or two vehicles parked in tandem. The SBT system provides door-to-door exhaust capture in firehouses with drive-thru bays. It can be connected to emergency or non-emergency vehicles.
2.) Straight Suction Rail (SSR) System – This system is ideal for firehouses with little room to spare. It accommodates up to four emergency response vehicles parked in tandem. The SSR system uses the MagneGrip nozzle and minimum hose lengths.
3.) Vertical Stack Rail (VSR) System – For vehicles equipped with vertical stack exhausts, MagneGrip’s VSR system is the answer. There is no manual connection required. When the apparatus returns from a run and enters the firehouse, a stack catcher automatically adjusts to align the suction rail with the vertical stack exhaust.
4.) Simple Drop System – This system has the same components as the SBT system, without the track. On emergency runs, the MagneGrip nozzle remains connected until the hose and cable are fully extended and then it automatically releases. This captures and removes exhaust emissions at start-up and until the nozzle disconnects, thereby eliminating the heaviest concentration of exhaust gases and particulates.
All MagneGrip systems are fully automatic. When entering the firehouse, the sensor automatically engages the exhaust fan switch as the MagneGrip nozzle is being connected or, with the VSR system, when the vertical stack engages the stack catcher. As soon as the apparatus is started (when parked in the firehouse) the fan immediately begins pulling the exhaust emissions through airtight ductwork and vents the fumes outside. All systems have 100% no-leak seals, so exhaust gases or particulates cannot escape into the air.
When operating vehicles are properly connected to the MagneGrip Exhaust Extraction System, firefighters and EMTs are 100% protected from breathing diesel exhaust pollution in the firehouse. Unlike the systems that are not 100% efficient, a MagneGrip system removes all toxic gases and particulates that cause firehouse pollution, contaminate a person’s skin and clothing, and build up a residue on the firehouse interior.
Recent design advances
The manufacturer of MagneGrip continues to innovate and bring new design enhancements to its exhaust extraction systems. For instance: MagneGrip’s distinct blue and white, high-temperature hoses are the most durable and wearresistant in the industry. The hoses have 3/4-inch helix wire spacing, giving them both flexibility and durability.
MagneGrip system applications use the most efficient exhaust fans available. The fans are designed to maximize horsepower and yet they are environmentally friendly. Once installed, they perform quietly—without silencers and without vibration.
Several new design advances have been made to MagneGrip’s Straight Suction Rail (SSR) System. The system’s trolley has solid Delrin wheels and it is balanced to travel on the rail with optimal efficiency. The SSR system uses a wireless transmitter to signal the electrical control box and start the exhaust fan. No wiring connection is needed, which greatly reduces the chance of sensor failure, and maintenance concerns are reduced as well. Another design feature helps eliminate false starts, and a new endstop uses a pneumatic cylinder to act as a shock absorber in stopping the moving trolley.
No other exhaust extraction systems have made the major advances found in MagneGrip Exhaust Extraction Systems. MagneGrip leads the way in technology and design, and its systems are professionally installed by trained technicians to give years of reliable service.
Made in America
MagneGrip Exhaust Extraction Systems are completely (100%) manufactured in the U.S.A. Firefighters and EMTs can take pride in having a system that is “all American,” as well as the safest, most efficient system available. Competitive systems are often the products of foreign companies, which are largely manufactured outside the U.S. MagneGrip uses American Standard parts (not metric) so if any adjustments or repairs are needed, most departments will already have the tools on hand.
For more information about MagneGrip Exhaust Extraction Systems or for budgetary quotes, visit www.magnegrip. com or call 800-875-5440. A fullcolor brochure and a video or CD demonstrating the advantages of MagneGrip systems are available.
