Ships Lounge Burnout Experiments
Abstract
A series of 1/4-scale and full-scale burnouts were conducted in order to examine the adequacy of the existing ship structural fire protection regulations, in light of extensive usage of modern materials. Six full-scale burnouts were conducted aboard the test vessel A.E. WATTS in typically configured and furnished crew's lounges. The lounges each had an inner and an outer room measuring 12 ft 4 in x 17 ft 6 in and 11 ft 0in x 17 ft 6 in respectively. Marine bulkheads are rated on the basis of a standard fire test prescribed by Coast Guard regulation. The test specifies the time-temperature curve for the test furnace. The results of the full-scale tests reported show that temperatures inside the test lounge exceeded that curve within the first fifteen minutes and thereafter fell below it. The tests were also characterized by intense heat flux penetration into the bulkheads for short periods due to concentrated heat release. All of the fires were ventilation controlled. The test configuration in which air was forced into the lounge produced the most severe fires. In no case was flashover, characterized by sudden full room involvement in flames, observed. This seems to be a result of the limited ventilation during the tests.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA116123
Entities
People
- A. Datta
- R. C. Richards
Organizations
- United States Coast Guard Research & Development Center