IFD cutting costs by tapping scientific
process utilized by racing industry
INDIANAPOLIS - The Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD) is using a scientific process known as "cryogenics" to help cut costs on fire truck maintenance. Cryogenics, the branch of science dedicated to the freezing of obects to favorably alter their molecular structure, is often used by the racing industry to enhance performance and increase the life of mechanical parts. This treatment is being applied to the braking systems of IFD's fire trucks.
Once applied to all 60 trucks in operation, the process should save IFD an estimated $48,000 per year.
Indianapolis Fire Chief Louis Dezelan praised the efforts of IFD manager fleet services, Captain Dudley Taylor, who lead the effort to apply cryogenics to truck braking systems.
"Our firefighters have demonstrated over and over again their ability to use progressive, creative strategies to serve the taxpayers better," Chief Dezelan said. "What Captain Taylor has come up with here is tremendous. His is a great example of a dedicated public servant who is doing all he can to give firefighters and Indianapolis citizens the best service possible."
Cryogenics involves the use of liquid nitrogen to deeply freeze objects to temperatures of -240º to -300ºF. This cooling process is being used on brake rotors and drums of IFD trucks, with the goal of reducing wear and tear and prolonging the life of these parts.
When metals are cooled to temperatures approaching -300ºF, the grain structures become more closely bonded creating a stronger, more durable material and all but eliminating microscopic cracks that may occur in untreated metals. When applied to brake rotors and drums, the cryogenic process can double or possibly triple the life of the parts.
Replacement of these parts on IFD trucks run close to $197 per rotor and per drum. Prior to the use of cryogenic treatment, these parts would have to be replaced once every six months according to Captain Taylor.
Locally-owned and operated Sinden Racing Service (SRS) is performing the cryogenic tempering for IFD. The cost of the service is $97 per part. Every truck in IFD's fleet is expected to have cryogencially treated braking systems within two years.
This article appeared Thursday, February 7, 2002 on The City of Indianapolis website.
