An Investigation of In-Flight Fire Protection with a Turbofan Powerplant Installation

摘要

The potential explosive and fire hazards and methods of detecting and controlling in-flight fires on modern aircraft powerplant installations were investigated under full-scale simulated low altitude flight conditions. Modifications were made to the pod-mounted turbofan engine test article to extend the program scope beyond the normal range of variables present on the installation. The test program consisted of five studies: (1) environmental conditions producing thermal ignition of combustible mixtures and ignition characteristics, (2) characteristics of nacelle fires, (3) system performance and installation requirements for fire and overheat detection, (4) requirements for extinguishing and controlling fires, and (5) effects of fires and explosions on the powerplant installation. The results of the program are presented as fire safety design criteria and engineering data. (Author)