That’s the Spirit
Since 2002 and the introduction of the 3G AIR Infra-Red gas
detection system, 20% of our forklift truck conversions have found
end users in the Whisky industry, a market in which we had no
previous presence.
Scotch Whisky is aged in oak casks which are housed in bonded
warehouses. Most single malt Whiskies are matured for at least
eight years. The use of oak casks for the ageing process gives the
Whisky its flavour and colour, but also allows for evaporation of
the Whisky. A percentage of the Whisky is lost each year and is
known as the "Angel's Share". This evaporated Whisky takes the form
of ethanol vapour which can form a potentially explosive atmosphere
in the bonded warehouse. If the ethanol vapour were to be ignited
by - for example - a spark or a hot surface, a serious explosion
would occur endangering personnel and resulting in the loss of
valuable product.
Water is added to bottled Whisky, reducing the alcohol content
which can be as low as 40%, the whisky stored in casks in a bonded
warehouse can be as high as 94.8%. Whisky will evaporate to produce
a flammable ethanol vapour at temperatures as low as 12°C and will
auto ignite at 363°C.
Bonded warehouses are commonly designated as Zone 2 formally
classified hazardous areas, which require specialist equipment.
Forklift trucks complying to Equipment Category 3G and EN1755:2000
(Safety of industrial trucks - Operation in potentially explosive
atmospheres) are able to enter and work within these Zone 2
hazardous areas.
The AIR Safe Infra-Red gas detection system can be fitted to
"Safe Area" forklift trucks which do not operate in a formally
classified hazardous area, as "Added Safety" equipment giving the
operator extra peace of mind should a spillage occur.
3G AIR and AIR Safe. The perfect blend of safety and
technology.
