PERFORMANCE OF THE AMF 36- AND 48-INCH BLAST CLOSURE DEVICES

The 36- and 48-inch AMF blast closure devices were tested to determine their air flow characteristics, closure times, blast resistance and weatherability. At an air flow of 10,000 cfm, the 36-inch valve had an intake pressure drop of 0.55 inches of water and an exhaust pressure drop of 0.39 in. of water the 48-inch valve at an air flow of 13,000 cfm had an intake drop of 0.53 in. of water and an exhaust drop of 0.36 inches. The closure time of each valve was about 170 msecs. Sensor reaction time averaged about 50 msecs. The 36- in. valve was not damaged by tests in the NCEL Atomic Blast Simulator at pressures up to 192 psi however, the 48-in. valves reopening and latching mechanism was moderately damaged when subjected to a blast pressure of 204 psi. The effects of three years of weathering indicates that a severe corrosion problem exists unless the valves receive proper maintenance.