RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY FOR AIRCRAFT FIRE PROTECTION.

The development of high-performance, advanced aircraft introduces new problems in fire safety. Insufficient knowledge and experience exist to establish accurately the degree of hazard that results from such considerations as aerodynamic heating of surfaces, higher engine operating temperatures, restricted usage of compartment venting precedures, and the behavior of fuel liquids, mists, and vapors under a greater range of temperatures and pressures. Investigations of these problems as well as of the methods and materials for their solution are currently in progress. These programs include the following 1 An investigation and analysis are underway to provide definite information on fuel system fire hazards of Mach 3 aircraft the emphasis is on cool flame phenomena. 2 An analysis on the safety of jet fuels has indicated no significant, operational fire-safety advantage of a lower volatility fueld such as kerosene over JP-4. 3 An analysis of the current programs by the Federal Aviation Agency and the U. S. Army on emulsified and gelled fuels indicates that the utilization of such fuels, except for specialized applications, does not appear attractive for jet operations within the U. S. Air Force although the fire safety advantages are significant. Author