Tunnel vision

The lifesaving roles that smoke-spill motors play in our underground safety

Without ventilation a tunnel can be a dangerous place. Smoke, dust, and other pollutants accumulate, affecting the air quality and visibility within the confined tunnel environment.

And should a fire break out in a tunnel, this is one of the most dangerous places you can be.

This is why smoke spill motors are so important in the day-to-day operation of tunnels and tunnel construction projects.

So let us look at how this equipment works, and how they are vital in your tunnel projects.

How smoke spill motors work

Essentially, a smoke spill motor is the special motor that drives your tunnel fans, exhaust fans, and tunnel ventilators. A smoke spill motor’s primarily work is to provide thorough ventilation and extraction within a tunnel setting to disperse any dust, toxic fumes, and pollutants from the air.

In the emergency event of a fire inside the tunnel setting, these fan systems assist in moving contaminated air in the opposite direction of the evacuation route, dispelling the smoke and allowing people to evacuate safely. They also work to help control the fire, by slowing down the spread, and even exhausting the fire entirely.

Therefore, it is critical that these motors are able to operate effectively under high temperature conditions when required and without any risk of deterioration.

Toshiba smoke spill motors are built to work in any situation

Our smoke spill motors are created for everyday use, but with robust build specs to operate in extreme conditions.

Internal systems
Internally, you will find a proven insulation system of premium vacuum impregnated form windings, which are suitable for both direct on line and variable speed drive control. A back-to-back thrust bearing system manages the high thrust in most fan applications.
The motors are also supplied with copper bar rotors to enhance the reliability and performance under extreme stress.

A unique non drive end shaft allows for shaft locking of the complete assembly, keeping it safe and secure during transportation.

External design
Externally, our frames are constructed with high-grade heavy duty cast iron, with multiple mounting options that allow for a range of applications and project uses. With a heavy-duty TEAO enclosure and bi-directional capability, they can be used in almost any tunnel project.

Each motor is designed and built to withstand high temperatures, from its grease-filled bearings to the gaskets and seals. You even have the option of separate terminal boxes for remote connection of your main and auxiliary cables.

Thanks to their customised windings, reinforced insulation, special bearings, lubricants, paints and finishes, sensors and heaters, and an IP rating of up to IP66, these unique motors are suitable for the harshest of conditions.
 

The unsung heroes of tunnel safety

The beauty of smoke spill motors is that you don’t necessarily notice them—and this means that they’re doing their job. These life-saving pieces of equipment can be used in any tunnel construction projects, fan control systems, and are used extensively in transport infrastructure. Toshiba smoke spill motors are already used in a number of tunnel projects across Sydney, and you have likely passed by them on your daily commute.

More than just air flow

Choosing the right smoke spill motors can have a big impact on your tunnel projects.

The right motor will:

• Operate effectively in high temperature emergency conditions if called on to do so.
• Function effectively for the long term, limiting any unnecessary maintenance.
• Reduce your energy consumption and associated costs.
• Run with any control system, including Soft Starters and Variable Speed Drives.

At the end of the day, smoke spill motors provide quick smoke and heat extraction to your tunnels and enclosed spaces. They’ll help delay the propagation of any fire that occurs, allowing for safe access to emergency exits, and safe entry for emergency staff and vehicles.

Toshiba premium smoke spill motors are specially designed for energy-efficient, heavy duty fan operation. They’re optimised for safe and reliable operation in both normal ventilation and high temperature emergency situations to help keep people safe.

Put simply, when it comes to underground safety, smoke spill motors save lives.

Contact us find out more about how Toshiba’s smoke spill motors can be used in your tunnel projects.