Physiological Evaluation of the RACAL Pusher Fan In 0, 20, and 40 C Environments
Abstract
The RACAL Pusher Fan attached to C2 canister on M40 NBC Respirator (mask) was evaluated in MOPP IV. RACAL use was intended to reduce physiological burden via improvement in pulmonary function, physical performance, and thermal comfort. Twelve males and three females, 19-25 years old, exercised at 20 deg C or 0 and 40 deg C at 3 mph and O deg grade on a treadmill for two 50-min periods, separated by 10-min rest. Results show limited significant physiological advantages using RACAL. Heart rate changes were not consistent. RACAL appears to lower inhalation resistance without changing exhalation resistance. RACAL produced no decrease in rectal temperature or thermal stress and no increase in total test time. However, RACAL warmed mask inlet air temperature at 0 deg C and cooled it at 20 deg C. No frostbite resulted at 0 deg C. Via a questionnaire, volunteers rated speaking, hearing, and vision unchanged using RACAL. They judged RACAL airflow satisfactory. Based on these results, RACAL does not offer substantial benefits to soldiers wearing M40 protective respirator in MOPP IV ensemble.... Physiological tests, Rectal temperature, M40 Respirator, Volunteer questionnaire, Data analysis, MOPP IV Ensemble, Treadmill exercise.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA263900
Entities
People
- Paul V. Pullen
- Thomas J. Kulle
Organizations
- Edgewood Chemical Biological Center