An Investigation into the Effectiveness of Halon 1301 (Bromotrifluoromethane CBrF3) as an Extinguishing Agent for Shipboard Machinery Space Fires

A series of large-scale fire tests were undertaken to determine the effectiveness of HALON 1301 when used as an extinguishing agent for machinery space fire protection. Pre-burn lengths were varied to measure the same effect of fire intensity on the pyrolosis products of the agent. Additionally, discharge times were varied to measure the same effect. Two different systems were utilized in the series; the first system was a nitrogen-super pressurized system, and the second system obtained its design pressure from a heat source. All fires were successfully extinguished. It appears that the volume of pyrolosis products produced from breakdown of the agent is a function of the discharge time rather than of fire intensity.