Materials Compatibility and Agent Operational Validation for Halon 1211 Replacement: Phases 1 2, and 3. Volume 1
Abstract
As a result of stratosphere ozone depletion and greenhouse warming concerns, the present halon fire-extinguishing agents will be phased out by 1 January 1994 under an international treaty. The U.S. Air Force has placed a high priority on the development of substitute agents to replace halo fire suppressants. This report describes the assessment of perfluorohexane, one of the candidate substitute agents, through a series of materials compatibility and operational validation testing. The materials compatibility testing was conducted according to applicable Underwriters Laboratories and American Society for Testing and Materials test methods. The testing showed that perfluorohexane is compatible with most elastomers and the composites and electrical components found on an aircraft. The operational validation testing incorporated varying climatic conditions, electrical fires, oxygen-enriched fires, and aircraft landing-gear fires. The tests showed that the effectiveness ratio of perfluorohexane to Halon 1211 was approximately 3-3.6 to 1. This suggests that either perfluorohexane must be used in larger quantities during fire situations, or reserved for first response use only. It is recommended that further testing be performed to optimize the nozzle and system for delivery of perfluorohexane.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA279109
Entities
People
- Michael E. Lee
- Robert E. Tapscott