- Author
-
Bragg, K.
- Title
- Parker Reactive Explosion Suppression System (PRESS) Proof-Of-Concept Demonstration. Final Report. March 1989-September 1990.
- Coporate
- Flight Dynamics Directorate, Wright Patterson AFB, OH
- Report
-
WRDC-TR-90-3064
May 1992
196 p.
- Distribution
- LIMITED DISTRIBUTION Available from National Technical Information Services
- Keywords
-
explosions; fuel systems; ullage; fire protection
- Identifiers
- water dry bay
- Abstract
- This report documents the work performed by the Parker Hannifin Corporation for the Flight Dynamics Lab and the JTCG/AS to optimize and perform proof-of-concept tests of the Parker Reactive Explosion Suppression System (PRESS). this innovative system is designed to be installed in aircraft fuel tanks and react to and suppress fuel tank explosions. It consists of an optical detector, transmission lines and a supression tube(s) containing a water/brine solution. This system is designed to respond within a few milliseconds to engage the flame front and reduce pressures below damage causing levels. After detection, the transmission lines transmit a signal to the suppression tube, which initiates an explosing bridgewire circuit. This, in turn, initiates a detonating cord and propellant internal tube, creating a high pressure expulsion force to expel the adjacient bladder filled with water. The water exits through orfice holes, is transmitted through radial channels in the external nozles and released as 5-micron-thick sheets. These sheets break up into 10-micron droplets which absorb thermal energy released by the explosion. This process occurs in its entirety within a few milliseconds. The proof-of-concept tests have shown the system to successfully reduce the overpressure created by a 23-mm HEI simulator detonated within an explosive propane air mixture in an experiment.