Objective:
Test intumescent systems and their ability to meet USCG, IMO and regulatory body requirements.
Summary:
This project has developed low-cost, lightweight, fire protective material systems to be used to protect aluminum ship structures.
The project team demonstrated that by using E-119-type temperature versus time histories, the temperature could be kept below 200 degrees Celsius for up to 60 minutes.
The project team embarked on this project with a focus on developing a fire protective system for aluminum alloy vehicular deck systems for use in passenger ferries. The system was designed to be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for domestic use and by the International Maritime Organization for international use.
VTEC Laboratories fire-tested simulated aluminum deck sections with diesel fuel to generate real life data. These tests were performed in conjunction with small-scale fire tests at VTEC to further understand the effects of a petroleum spill fire and different types of fire protection systems.
Installation costs of the fire protective material systems are minimal. In January 2001, costs were estimated to be in the range of 2 cents per square foot. This is more than competitive as compared to the costs of installing traditional insulating materials.
The estimated weight of layers in this thickness range is between 0.2 to 0.4 pounds per square feet. When this is compared to the weights of traditional insulating materials, this represents a weight advantage of at least a factor of five.
Cost estimates for acquiring such materials are in the range of 5-80 cents per square foot. When this is combined with the estimated installation costs, this placed the installed cost of such layers in the range of $.07 to $1 per square foot.
In summary, the fire protective material systems developed in the project are durable, adherent and can be installed using methods common to, and compatible with, shipyard construction procedures.
Key Deliverables / Benefits:
Request Final Report from NSRP – Limited Distribution authorized to U.S. shipyards and NSRP ASE Program representatives
Point of Contact:
Dr. Bob Asaro, University of California San Diego
Overview
Project Team:
- Nichols Brothers Shipbuilding
- University of California San Diego
- Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding
- VTEC Laboratories
- Superior Products International
- Zero International
- Fire Protection Service
September 1999 - January 2001
NSRP ASE Investment: $282K
Industry Investment: $289K