Detection & Monitoring

MONITOR PANELS FOR AUTOMATIC FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

Monitor panels are crucial to an effective heavy equipment fire suppression system. When the system detects a fire or other operational problem, a signal is sent to the control panel to alert the cab driver to act. The panel may alert the operator with flashing LED lights, an audible alarm, and, on certain models, an intuitive LCD screen. This constant system monitoring by the control panel protects the machine operator, allows for quick discharge to suppress a fire, and minimizes overall equipment damage.

Our monitor panels for automatic fire suppression systems are available in two models to fit your unique needs and desired features.

an AFEX fire suppression system control unit

Control Unit – Advanced Defense System

This industry-leading fire detection display is durable, powerful and easy to use. The Control Unit’s integrated LCD display is intuitive, assuring the machine operator that their equipment is being actively protected. Should a problem condition arise, an on-screen message combined with both audible and visual alarms will notify the operator. The system will also store the alert on the Control Unit’s internal log for quick and easy troubleshooting in the field.

The Control Unit is also highly configurable; multiple input and output circuits allow for fire suppression system customization ideal for the unique needs of your operations. The programming can be accomplished right at the panel with no need for external hardware.

Control Unit Features

  • Programmable LCD display available in multiple languages
  • Audible and visual alarms
  • Internal data log for troubleshooting
  • Telematics connectivity for remote system monitoring, real-time system statuses and manual system actuation
  • 1-year stand-alone power
  • Up to two simultaneous detection circuits with adjustable delay
  • Compliant with ISO 13766 and other EC standards
  • Third-party tested and approved by FM HDME, Activfire and CE

Telematics Connectivity

Using outputs from the Control Unit and inputs on a vehicle’s telematics system, equipment owners can remotely monitor their automatic fire suppression systems. They even have the ability to manually discharge the suppression system when signaled by the vehicle remote control.

AFEX Control Unit diagram

Our Control Unit integrates with virtually any vehicle management system, including:

  • CAT Product Link
  • Komatsu Komtrax
  • Case SiteWatch
  • Trimble VisionLink
  • Navman Wireless
  • J1939 CAN Bus
  • Jigsaw
  • Telogis
  • Modular Mining

The True Cost of Heavy Equipment Fires

When a machine fire happens, the costs can go far beyond repairs. Fires can lead to downtime, lost production, insurance impacts, asset loss, and serious safety risks for operators.
Download our free whitepaper to learn what heavy equipment fires may really be costing your operation — and how fire suppression can help reduce that risk.

Whitepaper - Website Update 2025

Compact Panel – Next-Generation Monitoring for Compact Equipment

The Compact Panel is a compact fire suppression monitor panel designed for smaller cabs and equipment with limited installation space. Using LED indicators, an integrated horn, and an on-panel press-to-discharge actuation button, it helps keep operators informed of system status and supports fast action when a fire or fault condition occurs. The latest Compact Panel design adds simplified installation, expanded power flexibility, and on-panel actuation capabilities in a compact, purpose-built package.

Compact Panel Door Open

Compact Panel Features

  • On-panel press-to-discharge actuation with protective cover
  • Downloadable data log to support faster troubleshooting and maintenance visibility
  • Flexible power options – internal battery, external machine power, or both
  • Up to 12 months of stand-alone operation
  • IP65 environmental protection for harsh conditions
  • Simplified installation with integrated wiring harness
  • LED indicators and audible horn for clear operator alerts
  • Compact surface-mount design for limited-space installations
  • One detection circuit and one actuation circuit

Built for compact and mid-sized machines, the Compact Panel delivers dependable fire suppression monitoring in a small footprint.

For larger machines or operations that require advanced configurability, telematics connectivity, internal data logging, and an LCD display, the Control Unit remains the preferred solution.

Detection & Monitoring FAQ

A fire suppression monitor panel is the control center of an automatic fire suppression system. It continuously monitors the system’s detection circuits and alerts the operator if a fire or system problem is detected. Depending on the model, the panel may provide audible alarms, flashing LEDs, LCD messages, discharge delays, and remote monitoring capabilities.
Heavy equipment fires often begin in areas the operator cannot easily see, such as enclosed engine compartments or behind guarding. Detection and monitoring systems help identify fire conditions early, alert the operator quickly, and initiate suppression before the fire grows into a larger equipment loss. Early warning is especially important on large mining, forestry, waste, and industrial machines.
The AFEX Control Unit is an advanced monitoring panel designed for highly configurable fire suppression systems. It offers features such as:
• LCD display
• Internal event loggin
• Multiple detection circuits
• Adjustable discharge delays
• Telematics connectivity
• Remote monitoring capabilities

The Compact Panel is a simpler monitoring solution designed for reliable everyday fire suppression monitoring with LED indicators, audible alarms, and basic detection and actuation functionality.
Yes. AFEX Control Units can integrate with many vehicle telematics and fleet management systems, allowing remote monitoring of fire suppression system status, real-time alerts, and even remote discharge functionality in certain applications. Compatible integrations may include CAT Product Link, Komatsu Komtrax, J1939 CAN Bus systems, and other fleet monitoring platforms.
Yes. AFEX detection and monitoring systems are purpose-built for heavy-duty mobile equipment operating in demanding environments involving vibration, dust, debris, heat, moisture, and continuous operation. AFEX monitor panels are third-party tested and approved to standards including FM HDME, AS 5062 (ActivFire), and CE requirements for heavy equipment applications.
Rugged. Reliable. Purpose-built.

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