Minecorp recently delivered the first light attack fire fighting vehicle as part of an exciting project for a new client. The client based in South-East Queensland, are one of the largest bulk water supply authorities, managing water storage and supply facilities for more than 3.6 million people.
The project set out to improve operational function, safety, and capability for the client’s fire management team. Minecorp’s engineering team were able to create a number of innovative solutions including roll over and falling object protective structure, self-filling fire suppression foam delivery system, integrated scene lighting, centralised pump control panel and ergonomic spare wheel replacement mechanism with wind down spare wheel system and engineered jacking points to ensure the operators are not at risk while changing tyres in an offroad situation. The major new safety feature that was introduced into this customers fleet was the extensive protection for crew in the event of being trapped in a burn over event (when the vehicle and crew are surrounded by the fire front, cannot escape and are forced to bunker down in the vehicle while the fire passes over it) which includes internal radiant heat shields and a electrically activated protective vehicle deluge system, which uses a reserve water tank to protect the cabin and operating system to aid in crew survivability.
The Minecorp team were able to attend the initial field trials of the vehicle with the customer at one of the bulk storage facilities with some of their most challenging terrain. The vehicle performed excellently and Minecorp has successfully set a new standard with the light fire attack vehicle, with exceptional feedback received. Further vehicles will be completed in the following months to bolster the QLD fleet.
