Aircraft Hangar Fire Threat Study and Analysis
Abstract
This study evaluated the fire threat associated with the use of JP-8 as compared to the fire threat associated with the use of JP-4 during normal hangar aircraft maintenance operations. Evaluations included fuel ignition sources, flame spread, flat-plate fuel spills and fire energy releases. JP-4, JP-8 and JP-5 fuels were tested in the analytical chemistry facility walk-in hood to determine the ignition characteristics for each when exposed to an electrical arc and a flame. The fuels were tested for vapor ignition height above the surface of a fuel spill. Flame spread rate tests were also conducted in the walk-in hood. Flame spread tests were conducted in a controlled temperature V-shaped trough. Fuel temperatures were varied from 80 to 160 deg F for all of the above tests. JP-4 and JP-8 were evaluated at Test Range I and Test Range II for ignition characteristics when exposed to hazardous electrical tools and equipment, welding and acetylene cutting operations, electrical arcs and ignited matches. Flat-plate fire intensity tests were conducted inside of a Third-Generation Aircraft Shelter, with a 30 foot high ceiling. Fuels were spilled and burned inside a 20' X 18' steel test pan on an 18' X 18', four inch thick concrete pad. These tests evaluated JP-4, JP-8 and JP-5 flat-plate fuel spills and fires. Temperature and heat flux data was collected and analyzed to compare fire intensities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA344628
Entities
People
- K. S. Cozart
- M. B. Mitchell
- R. D. Dodsworth
- S. P. Wells
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory