At the recent AFAC Conference and Exhibition, Fleet EV News had the opportunity to speak with Russ Victorsen, Managing Director at Big Red Truck Fire Rescue, about an innovative product now available in Australia—the Brimstone EV Fire Blanket. This cutting-edge technology is designed to help fire services and organisations manage the increasing risks associated with electric vehicle (EV) fires.
A new approach to EV fire suppression
The Brimstone EV Fire Blanket is unique because it offers a complete package for managing EV fires, unlike traditional fire suppression methods that may struggle with the particular challenges posed by EVs. One of the key aspects of this system is its ability to contain and control the fire, preventing the dangerous phenomenon known as “thermal runaway.” This occurs when a fire spreads uncontrollably between the cells of a lithium battery, a common feature in electric vehicles.
Contrary to popular belief, Russ explained, EV fires actually burn cooler than traditional internal combustion engine fires. However, they require specialised methods for suppression because lithium batteries are notoriously difficult to extinguish. The Brimstone system focuses on containing the fire and cooling the battery cells to prevent further damage. By covering the vehicle with a specially designed fire blanket, it removes one element of the fire triangle—oxygen—thereby halting the spread of the fire.
Key features and benefits
One of the major innovations of the Brimstone EV Fire Blanket is the use of a misting system. Once the blanket is deployed, it allows hoses to be attached underneath to provide a controlled flow of water. This is a crucial feature because EV fires can burn for hours, consuming vast quantities of water. In fact, it can take up to 55,000 litres to extinguish a single EV fire under certain conditions. However, most Australian fire trucks only carry between 2,000 and 3,000 litres of water, making conventional methods ineffective.
The Brimstone system helps reduce water usage significantly, not only making it more efficient but also environmentally friendly. Excess water runoff from EV fires can be highly contaminated due to the chemicals and materials involved, posing a risk to the environment. The misting system minimises water waste while keeping the temperature of the lithium batteries under control to prevent further ignition.
Expanding applications beyond cars
While EV cars are a primary target for the Brimstone EV Fire Blanket, Russ pointed out that the technology isn’t limited to just vehicles. With the rise in popularity of electric bikes and scooters, these smaller forms of transport also pose fire risks. The blanket comes in various sizes to cater to different applications, making it a versatile tool for fire agencies, car parks, and even private users.
In a recent incident in Brisbane, a fire caused by an electric bike on the side of the road highlighted the growing need for EV-specific fire suppression methods. The Brimstone EV Fire Blanket offers a solution that can be adapted to these smaller but equally hazardous situations.
Meeting a growing demand
As electric vehicles become more prevalent on Australian roads, fire services and agencies are increasingly recognising the need to be prepared for EV fires, even though the statistical likelihood of an EV catching fire remains low. When they do occur, however, EV fires tend to be highly severe and make headlines.
Russ mentioned that although this product is new to the Australian market, the response has been promising. Fire services are eager to explore solutions that are not only effective but also environmentally sustainable. With every household now owning devices powered by lithium batteries, and some of these being of lower quality and thus more prone to failure, the Brimstone system is timely and necessary.
The Brimstone EV Fire Blanket is a game changer for managing the unique risks posed by electric vehicles and other lithium-powered devices. Its ability to contain fires, minimise water usage, and provide a safer, more efficient method of cooling lithium batteries makes it a standout product in the fire suppression industry.
Big Red Truck Fire Rescue has been at the forefront of fire safety solutions for over 27 years, and their introduction of the Brimstone EV Fire Blanket continues their tradition of bringing innovative products to the Australian market. As EV adoption rises, so does the need for new, specialised fire safety solutions, and the Brimstone system is perfectly positioned to meet this growing demand.
Russ Victorsen and his team are confident that this product will play a vital role in improving fire safety standards across the country. For fire agencies and other sectors, it’s an essential tool in the ongoing effort to adapt to the new challenges posed by electric vehicles and battery-powered technology.
