AFEX Fire Suppression
AFEX Fire Suppression Systems Installed by BTRAC
Protect Your Equipment — and the People Who Run It
Heavy equipment fires happen faster than most realize. A small spark can turn into a total equipment loss, putting your operators and operations at serious risk.
At BTRAC, we install FM-Approved AFEX Fire Suppression Systems both in-shop and on-site to protect mining, forestry, construction, agriculture, and waste-handling machinery across the Midwest.
These rugged systems are your first line of defense against hydraulic, electrical, and fuel-related fires — keeping your crew safe and your equipment running.
1) Why Fire Suppression Matters
Every machine in your fleet represents a major investment. In tough environments — extreme heat, dust, debris, and long run hours — equipment is always at risk.
A single fire can
- Endanger your operator
- Destroy valuable equipment
- Halt production
- Trigger compliance fines and insurance issues
- Damage your company’s reputation
NFPA data shows that over 3,400 industrial vehicle fires occur each year in North America — most starting in the engine, hydraulics, or wheel areas.
2) What Causes Heavy Equipment Fires?
Most equipment fires begin when heat meets fuel.
a) Common fuel sources include:
- Turbochargers and after-treatment components
- Seized bearings or exhaust manifolds
- Welding or cutting near flammable materials
- Frayed or rubbed wiring
b) Common fuel sources include:
- Diesel leaks (flash point 126–205°F)
- Hydraulic fluid (flash point 400°F)
- Debris buildup — twigs, sawdust, leaves, and plastics accumulating on hot engine components
Even a well-maintained machine can experience one of these risks — especially in harsh, around-the-clock operations.
3)The True Cost of a Fire
A single fire can quickly overtake a machine and cause:
- Loss of life or injury risk to operators:
- Complete loss of the asset:
- Production delays and downtime
- Environmental damage or fines
- Increased insurance premiums:
For some fleets, one fire can halt operations entirely.
4) How to Minimize the Risk
While no solution completely prevents fire, these measures greatly reduce the risk:
- Maintain a consistent inspection and cleaning schedule
- Replace worn or leaking lines early
- Train operators to spot potential hazards
- Install AFEX Fire Suppression Systems for immediate response when fires occur
5) What is an AFEX Fire Suppression System?
An AFEX fire suppression system is a permanently mounted safety system designed to detect and extinguish fires automatically.
Each system includes:
- Fire-detecting wire or sensors placed around the machine
- A control panel in the cab that alerts the operator
- Tanks filled with fire-fighting agents
- A network of hoses and nozzles targeting high-risk areas like turbochargers, batteries, alternators, and transmissions
When heat or flame is detected, the system activates automatically — discharging agent through nozzles to knock down flames before they spread.
6) Types of AFEX Systems We Install
At BTRAC, we match every system to your application and risk level.
Dry Chemical Systems
- Fights Class A (debris), Class B (fuel), and Class C (electrical) fires
- Ideal for engine compartments and enclosed spaces
- Delivers rapid flame knockdown
Liquid Agent Systems
- Excellent cooling and reflash prevention
- Works on Class A and B fires
- Protects turbochargers, exhausts, and after-treatment components
Dual Agent Systems
- Combines dry and liquid agents for full coverage
- Meets NFPA 122 requirements for large mining equipment
- Provides the highest level of protection available and after-treatment components
7) Why Choose BTRAC for Your AFEX Installation
- Authorized AFEX Dealer & Installer
- ISO 9001:2015 Certified for quality assurance
- 45+ years serving heavy-duty fleets
- In-shop or on-site installs available
- Annual service and inspections for continued compliance
BTRAC technicians are trained to ensure clean routing, proper tank mounting, and precise nozzle targeting — giving your equipment maximum protection and your operators peace of mind.
8) Maintenance and Inspection Support
Once installed, your system needs annual checks to stay ready.
BTRAC offers:
- Certified system inspections
- Agent refills and recharges
- Hose, nozzle, and detection component replacements
- Inspection documentation for insurance and audits
You can even verify your system’s technician certification through AFEX’s “Verify Your Technician” program.
9) Common Questions
Do you install AFEX systems on-site?
Yes. Our mobile technicians travel throughout the Midwest to install or service systems right at your jobsite.
How long does installation take?
Most systems can be installed in one workday, depending on the equipment.
Can I retrofit an existing machine?
Absolutely. We can equip nearly any machine with a tailored AFEX system.
Do you provide compliance paperwork?
Yes. Each install includes inspection and test documentation for your safety and insurance records.
10) Ready to Protect Your Fleet?
Fire doesn’t wait — and neither should you.
Contact BTRAC today for a Fire Risk Assessment or AFEX installation quote.
📍 Serving Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest