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THMG493 – AFV Operations
Looks like you all enjoyed the chat about alternative fuel vehicles from a week or two back, and we got a bunch of emails asking how they work. So, here's the scoop!
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Episode Overview:
In this episode, the hosts dive deep into the operational considerations for first responders when dealing with alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) like CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), and ethanol-powered vehicles. The conversation provides essential guidelines for handling fires, leaks, and extrications specific to each fuel type, offering valuable insights for fire departments, emergency responders, and industry professionals.
Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:
Introduction to Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) – [4:31 - 5:21]- The episode begins by addressing the growing interest in alternative fuel vehicles and the unique challenges they present for emergency responders.
- Special mention of Timothy Ferretti for his contributions in the field, especially regarding tank construction and valves for CNG, LNG, and hydrogen vehicles.
- Fire Response: Importance of maintaining a 80-100 foot perimeter around a CNG vehicle fire to allow pressure relief devices (PRDs) to function properly without interfering with the fire.
- Leak Management: Discusses how to approach a CNG leak, including removing ignition sources, closing solenoid valves, and ensuring safe ventilation.
- Extrication: Special considerations when extricating from CNG vehicles, including avoiding cutting fuel lines and staying aware of cylinder locations.
- Fire Response: Unlike CNG, water can be used to fight an LNG fire under certain conditions. The hosts also highlight the challenges of detecting LNG fires due to their nearly invisible flames.
- Leak Management: LNG's cryogenic properties are discussed, stressing the importance of PPE and frostbite risks. Detection and handling procedures for small LNG leaks are explored.
- Extrication: The risks associated with cryogenic burns and the use of thermal imaging to identify LNG hazards are discussed.
- Fire Response: Water is ineffective for ethanol fires and can make the situation worse by spreading the fire. Alcohol-resistant foam is the recommended suppression method.
- Leak Management: Ethanol’s colorless and odorless nature makes leak detection challenging, necessitating the use of meters and non-sparking tools to ensure safety.
- Extrication: Similar to gasoline, but with specific precautions due to ethanol’s flammability and the risks of runoff during a spill.
Key Moments & Insights:
- The episode emphasizes the importance of safety zones and maintaining a distance of 80-100 feet from AFVs to prevent injury during fires and leaks.
- Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC) are repeatedly mentioned as essential tools for detecting fire and gas leaks, especially with LNG and ethanol vehicles.
- The hosts highlight the importance of industry standards and best practices for AFV response, stressing that while these are guidelines, responders must always assess the situation dynamically.
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