Materials and Fire Threat.
Materials and Fire Threat.
(741 K)
Sorathia, U.; Lyon, R. E.; Gann, R. G.; Gritzo, L.
SAMPE Journal, Vol. 32, No. 3, 8-15, May/June 1996 AND
Fire Technology, Vol. 33, No. 3, 260-275,
September/October 1997,
Keywords:
composite materials; load bearing elements; structures;
fire growth; habitability; fire extinguishment; fire
safety; flammability; fire barriers; centrifugal pumps
Abstract:
Polymer research is producing new materials with
exceptional properties, and products made with these
materials may well replace many conventional products.
Fiber-reinforced polymer composites offer the U.S.
Military the potential for significant reductions in
weight and signatures. Current seaborne applications of
composite materials in the U.S. Navy include sonar bow
domes and windows, and coastal minehunter MHC-51 hulls.
The U.S. Navy is also evaluating composite materials for
both primary and secondary load-bearing structures such
as foundations, deckhouses, and hulls; machinery
components such as composite piping, valves, centrifugal
pumps, and heat exchangers; and auxiliary or support
items such as gratings, stanchions, ventilation ducts,
and screens. This new interest in composite materials
is due to increased need for a corrosion-free,
lightweight, and affordable low-cost alternative to
metallic components. The U.S. Army is evaluating
composite combat vehicles and the U.S. Air Force has
taken the lead in transitioning composite technology to
military advantage as evidenced by superior performance
of the Stealth Fighter.
