Applying Fine Water Mist (FWM) Technology to DDG 51 Class Ships

It is proposed to conduct research to determine optimum mist-delivery/generating technology (i.e. pump, accumulator, hybrid gas generator, or gas pump unit/nozzle type) and system architecture that will afford the requisite fire protection for the currenthalon protected spaces (machinery, turbine enclosure, and flammable liquid stowage areas). The practicability for replacing existing light-hazard sprinkler systems will be studied within overall water mist fire protection strategy. This proposed contractwill develop a cost/benefit analysis depicting affordability, space, an weight impact prior to delivery of final concept design. The Phase I will address the feasibility of determination and development of an affordable implementation of water misttechnology. The Phase II will further develop and optimize the prototype of the technology and demonstrate its effectiveness at a land-based facility. During the Phase III Beltran will develop a full-scale system and install it on a DDG 51 Class ship.Beltran proposed to work with Bath Iron Works, a General Dynamics Company, in Phase I, II and III. BIW Advanced Technology Division will support Beltran's fine water mist fire suppression development efforts throughout the SBIR process by providing marineengineering integration expertise and DDG 51 Class Destroyer specific design requirements. The imminent lack of availability of halon fire suppressants has sparked efforts in developing alternative fire fighting agents and delivery systems. Water mistfire suppression systems are potential replacements for Naval fire suppression systems on DDG 51 Class ships, as well as other ships. Also, this technology will have application for other military systems, industrial applications and aviation, such ascommercial passenger aircraft.