- Author
- Miller, J. E.
- Title
- Special Study of Fixed Fire Extinguisher System Using Halon-1301 on the M60 Tank. Final Report. July 11-16 December 1983.
- Coporate
- Army Combat Systems Test Activity (Provisional), Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
- Report
- USACSTA-6041, July 1984, 55 p.
- Distribution
- Available from National Technical Information Service
- Keywords
- fire suppression | burning time | Halon 1301
- Abstract
- A special study of the M60 Fixed Fire Extinguisher System was conducted by the US Army Combat Systems Test Activity (formerly Material Testing Directorate), Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD from 11 July through 16 December 1983, to determine if the system could be modified to enhance performance while also allowing continued mobility during fire suppression. The object of the test was to provide additional data to evaluate the standard Fixed Fire Extinguisher System and three proposed system modifications. These modifications were: elimination of the automatic engine shutdown feature; installation of modified lower distribution lines with larger (50%) dispersion holes, and elimination of the delay bottle. Extensive testing was conducted on an M48 derelict tank using Halon as the fire suppressant against engine compartment pan fires and live fire antitank threats. The results indicated the optimum configuration was produced by installing the modified distribution lines, eliminating the delay bottle, and eliminating the automatic-engine shutdown freature. This modified system was superior to the standard Fixed Fire Extinguisher System and would significantly increase the capability of an M60A3 so equipped, in terms of crew/tank survivability, over an M60A3 using the standard system. This system accomplished the goal of increased fire suppression capability while, at the same time, allowing continued vehicle mobility.