DRIVING IMPRESSION: With Field Attack, Meier-Brakenberg has developed a pressure hose for the front linkage. The equipment is more than just a fire extinguisher, though.

Although we don’t have any cold, hard facts, we do have an inkling that the number of field and machinery fires has increased in recent years. As a result, some farmers have added a water tank to an old trailer or fuel bowser or even a front linkage to work alongside a traditional fire extinguisher to help douse the flames. The Field Attack, from German firm Meier Brakenberg, takes this to another level. The ace up its sleeve is a hydraulically powered pressure washer that atomises the water into tiny droplets, giving an effective extinguishing effect with surprisingly little water. Ultimately, the droplets absorb the heat from the fire better and faster than a thick jet of water. The rapid absorption of energy causes some of the water to evaporate, which leads to expansion due to the water molecules being released. As the volume increases, it cuts off the supply of oxygen, making the fire smaller. A fire that has just started can be put out with as little as 200 litres of water or at least contained until the fire brigade arrives. Incidentally, experience shows that the dense water mist also protects the firefighter better than a thicker jet of water, and sometimes makes it easier for them to make their way to the source of the fire.

For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save.