Handheld Delivery System for Modified Boron-Type Fire Extinguishment Agent
Abstract
A handheld, portable extinguisher was developed for Boralon, a modified Boron-type Class D fire extinguishing agent. The development of this unit progressed through the design, prototype, and final product stages. Two prototypes were designed as valved, stored-pressure types using Boralon compatible materials in critical areas exposed to the agent. The units were tested at an operating pressure of 200 lbf/sq in and an agent capacity of 2 to 3 gallons to determine the optimum application rate, throw range and throw pattern. The most favorable unit was tested for reliability. The information obtained in the prototype testing was developed further into a final design. This design specified a stored-pressure type that was sealed with a frangible plug or splined rupture disk and was activated by depressing the handle and removing the seal. Further requirements of a fill ratio of 75 percent agent to 25 percent pressure head at 200 lbf/sq in and an agent fill capacity of at least 2 gallons were also specified. Two manufactured units were found that met the criteria. An extinguisher with a frangible plug seal was successfully tested against 30- and 50-pound magnesium fires. Both the frangible plug and splined rupture disk designs satisfy the final design requirements of the handheld Boralon extinguisher. Both types are recommended for use in the Draft Military Specification for this unit
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA283955
Entities
People
- Michael E. Lee
- Robert E. Tapscott