KME Unveils New Aerial Platform at FDIC 2010
The KME AerialCat family is the largest offering of aerials in the fire service with over 21 models. During the FDIC 2010 conference, KME unveiled its new aerial platform designed for both rear and midmount aerials. The KME platform offers a number of important advantages over competitors’ models.
The new platform offers 25% more room occupant space and is now 20.8 square feet. The additional space comfortably, allows four (4) firefighters in the platform with SCBA’s and equipment. However we understand that maneuverability is still important. That’s why the platform’s corners are angled so as not interfere with the front or rear turning radius (wall to wall) and the additional room doesn’t increase overall length of the truck.
The platform self-closing doors are equipped with a new push type latch allowing the firefighters hands free access to the platform, while still maintaining structural integrity with an automotive latch and flanged nadir pin. In addition, superior heat protection is afforded via a large, front heat shield to provide a thermal barrier for the platform occupants.
There is also substantially increased visibility for both the platform and ladder rungs. KME now offers “Pathfinder” LED illumination lights on the inside ladder rail and the platform floor. “NiteSafety” photo luminescent rung covers and platform floor with 20-hrs of illumination will also be incorporated into the device. These new rung covers provide an aggressive anti-slip surface and a photo luminescent area in the center and outer sections of each cover. The covers are constructed from fiberglass that has an inside diameter that matches the rung and will be bonded to the rung with a heavy duty adhesive. The covers will be replaceable in the event the cover is damaged.
For midmount AerialCats, KME offers as standard a rear entry door that is located on the same side of the vehicle as the platform access ladder on the body. This allows the firefighter to have direct platform access from a safe standing deck on the body, rather than climbing around the edge of the platform.
The new platform offers 25% more room occupant space and is now 20.8 square feet. The additional space comfortably, allows four (4) firefighters in the platform with SCBA’s and equipment. However we understand that maneuverability is still important. That’s why the platform’s corners are angled so as not interfere with the front or rear turning radius (wall to wall) and the additional room doesn’t increase overall length of the truck.
The platform self-closing doors are equipped with a new push type latch allowing the firefighters hands free access to the platform, while still maintaining structural integrity with an automotive latch and flanged nadir pin. In addition, superior heat protection is afforded via a large, front heat shield to provide a thermal barrier for the platform occupants.
There is also substantially increased visibility for both the platform and ladder rungs. KME now offers “Pathfinder” LED illumination lights on the inside ladder rail and the platform floor. “NiteSafety” photo luminescent rung covers and platform floor with 20-hrs of illumination will also be incorporated into the device. These new rung covers provide an aggressive anti-slip surface and a photo luminescent area in the center and outer sections of each cover. The covers are constructed from fiberglass that has an inside diameter that matches the rung and will be bonded to the rung with a heavy duty adhesive. The covers will be replaceable in the event the cover is damaged.
For midmount AerialCats, KME offers as standard a rear entry door that is located on the same side of the vehicle as the platform access ladder on the body. This allows the firefighter to have direct platform access from a safe standing deck on the body, rather than climbing around the edge of the platform.
