Findings of Portable Air Mover Tests on the ex-USS SHADWELL

Abstract : A series of full-scale desmoking tests were conducted to determine the effectiveness of a candidate water motor-driven, portable air mover. These tests were conducted on board the NRL fire research vessel, ex-USS SHADWELL. The water motor fan, when operated at design fire main pressures, was superior to other desmoking equipment tested. The performance of existing electric powered desmoking fans could be improved by increasing the size of the ventilation ducting. Supplemental tests demonstrated the ability of the water motor fan to perform when subjected to varied operating conditions. The use of desmoking equipment in combination with smoke curtains was demonstrated. Specific hardware recommendations and draft guidance for the development of tactics and procedures for the water motor fan are described. Water motor driven fan, Desmoking, Ventilation, Shipboard firefighting, Smoke curtains, Smoke control.