LIGHTNING PROTECTION MEASURES FOR AIRCRAFT FUEL SYSTEMS. PHASE 1,
Abstract
Lightning is receiving increased recognition as a possible hazard to aircraft and an intensive four month program, covered in this report, on Phase I, demonstrated the existence of possible ignition sources in a typical aircraft wing tank section as well as some feasible ignition source reduction measures. The facilities used in creating a lightning environment were further developed and cooperatively applied by LTRI in the Atlantic Research Corporation Phase II portion of the program which studied techniques in quenching ignited vapor inside fuel systems (AD-603 233). The tests, carried out on a typical jet transport fuel system, showed up general lightning produced ignition possibilities essentially common to all aircraft, with direct stroke discharges to such points as fuel filler caps, access doors and semi-insulated rivets producing sparks and molten aluminum showers inside the fuel tank and discharge streamers presenting ignition sources near fuel vent openings. Sparking was also demonstrated possible at semi-insulated joints and fastenings in areas that may contain trapped fuel vapors adjacent to the fuel tank.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0603232
Entities
People
- J. D. Robb
- J. R. Stahmann
- M. M. Newman