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Published Sunday, January 1, 2012 | From the January 2012 Issue of FireRescue
While working on a request for proposal (RFP) for a new tower ladder
and rescue engine, we learned about Smart Power Systems’ new
generator, the Liberator. This hydraulic generator not only produces
AC power, it also includes an integrated high-power rescue tool pump
made by XRT Power Systems. When the generator’s PTO switch is
activated, the generator puts out 100%-rated AC power while
simultaneously driving a directly connected, two-stage rescue tool
pump, right off the spinning generator.
When building the RFP and spec sheets, we requested the Smart
Power Liberator on our new Ferrara rescue engine. Ourfirst-due
response to motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) includes two engines and
one ambulance. Our new rescue engine responds to all MVCs and is
set up for extrication operations. This is where we saw a clear
advantage to having this new technology on our apparatus. En route
to a call, the engine officer can activate the Liberator system and have
our extrication tools ready for action by the time we arrive. The
system has also allowed us to pre-pipe two 100' reels and an outlet
on the front bumper that’s always ready to go.
During the pre-build meeting for the new rescue engine, we spoke
with a Smart Power representative, who informed us that many
customers around the country have been successfully powering tools
from the XRT rescue pump for more than 10 years. What we didn’t
realize at that time was the extra power that the Liberator would
provide to the tools.
When we took delivery of our new apparatus, weacquired a few
junkyard vehicles so we could put the new system to the test and train
our personnel. We immediately noticed an increase in speed when
the tools were operated simultaneously; there was no loss of speed or
pressure, even when all three were cutting thick steel at the same
time.
When the Liberator’s PTO switch is activated, the generator emits 100%-rated AC power while
simultaneously driving a directly connected, two-stage rescue toolpump, right off the spinning
generator. Photo Courtesy Smart Power Systems
Smart Power’s Liberator generator powers rescue tools simultaneously—& does so faster & quieter than gas-powered generators
We also discovered that, because the Liberator used power from the
apparatus, the noise level decreased, which will improve
communications and help victims remain calm while they’re being
extricated.
Having 100' core lines pre-piped to the Liberator makes the job of
vehicle extrication easier, and it takes less time to set up. In fact, as
we learned when training our members on how to use the Liberator,
overall operation is very simple: Engaging the generator to activate
the hydraulic tools is done with one switch. Connecting and
disconnecting the tools is simple because with the core technology,
there’s only one hydraulic line to work with per tool.
When training personnel on how to cut up cars using the Liberator, we
discovered that crews were able to work simultaneously to complete a
task and didn’t have to disconnect and reconnect the cutters and
spreader. And since the Liberator is pre-piped, all tools could be
operated at the same time, which allowed personnel to complete the
job much faster and eliminated the need to stop and switch tools.
In addition, because the Liberator system is mounted on top of our
apparatus, no valuable compartment space is lost. With its added
performance and ease of use, extrication times will be reduced, which
ultimately improves our chances of saving a life.
Thus far, we’ve been extremely pleased with the Liberator’s
performance. The fact that our core tools operate faster, smoother
and more powerfully than before is a pleasant surprise, and the
support and training we’ve received from Smart Power has been
above and beyond our expectations.
Anyone who’s considering a new apparatus that will carry rescue
tools should take a good look at the Liberator system. I give this
product and company my highest recommendation. I’m confident that
the Liberator will be a crucial piece of equipment in saving lives in our
district, which is our primary goal.
Impressed with the way the tools were operating, we decided to hook
them up to a gas-powered unit to see if there really was a noticeable
difference between the gas system and the Liberator. Connecting the
spreader and cutter to the gas-powered unit, we immediately noticed
a decrease in speed when both tools were operating at the same
time.
Gear Test:
Tim Littlefield, Assistant Fire Chief
Tim Littlefield, Assistant Chief of Operations for the Algonquin-Lake in the
Hills Fire Protection District, has worked with the district for 23 years, starting
as a volunteer. He worked his way through the ranks, including department
Training Officer, before promoting to his current position.
Gear Test: Smart Power Systems' Liberator generator | Firefighter Nation
Smart Power's Liberator Generator
Pros
+ Quieter and more powerful than gas-powered generator
+ Fast
+ Powers tools simultaneously; eliminates need to stop and switch tools
+ Easy operation
+ Eliminates need to disconnect and reconnect tools
Cons
- None
M A G A Z I N E