Engineering Observations on an Mb-5 Aircraft Fire-Fighting and Rescue Vehicle

摘要

A production MB-5 aircraft fire-fighting and rescue vehicle was taken from the manufacturer and instrumented to record simultaneously engine speed, road speed, and foam pump speed. The vehicle was then subjected to maximum acceleration runs and simulated fire-fighting operations wherein the vehicle was maneuvered while the foam system was being operated. With the vehicle in its 'as received' condition the fire-fighting system was erratic in performance and completely unsatisfactory. Adjustments by the vehicle manufacturer and the engine manufacturer greatly improved its performance. Operation is still not fully satisfactory because of low water feed rate to the foam pump, hazardous overspeeding of the foam pump, and engine surging while operating on the pumping governor. Numerous other items not in compliance with the purchase specification were found. Improved specifications and inspection procedures are desirable for future procurements.