Development of Polyurethane Foam Flotation Bridging/Rafting Systems up to Military Load Class 20

摘要

This report presents the results of research conducted to date on the development of lightweight, easily transportable materials and expedient methods for crossing nonfordable streams, lakes, and rivers by tactical vehicular traffic up to Military Load Class (MLC) 20 and by individuals or groups of soldiers. Canvas-covered rigid polyurethane foam flotation devices were evaluated in providing the buoyancy needed to raft an M151A1 1/4 ton utility truck and an M35A2 cargo truck across water and to form both a three-man reconnaissance boat and a 20-ft(6-m) footbridge section. These devices all provided more than enough buoyancy and stability in field tests conducted in still and slow-moving water. Field Army units will use the products of this research.