High Explosive Field Test of Electrical Generators
Abstract
Emergency electrical power for hardened shelters is provided by diesel-driven generator sets. In an effort to determine the level of air blast protection required for the sensitive equipment, NCEL participated in Operation PRAIRIE FLAT, the detonation of a 500-ton surface-tangent spherical charge of TNT at the Canadian Defence Research Establishment Suffield, Ralston, Alberta, Canada, in August 1968. Two small commercial diesel-driven generators placed in grate-covered pits were subjected to a 100-psi overpressure environment. The air blast caused the engines to stop by disrupting the electrical control circuits, but only minor damage was incurred. Emergency electrical generators can be successfully and economically operated in the 100-psi overpressure range if accessory equipment such as batteries and electrical controls are protected and if the grate cover is modified.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0861851
Entities
People
- J. M. Stephenson
- R. S. Chapler
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center