QinetiQ probe helps to determine safer entry into sealed compartments after fire

QinetiQ has developed a method of establishing when it is safe to re-enter a sealed compartment where there has been a fire. Re-entry Evaluation Detector (RED) analyses levels of gases and provides detailed information on the state of a fire so that an informed decision can be made on when to re-open the compartment. The detector not only improves safety, but also speeds up the re-entry process.

Currently, the preferred method of re-opening 'fired' compartments on RN vessels involves the use of magnetic thermometers to track bulkhead temperatures and can take many hours to achieve. When the temperature has reduced to a low level the compartment is deemed safe to re-open. However, if the compartment is opened sooner, hazardous levels of unburned combustible gases and residual heat may present an additional danger of a 'flashover', which could result in an explosion.

The RED probe accesses a sealed compartment via a small hole or through a bulkhead inspection port and uses a series of gas sensors to analyse the air. The sensors can identify carbon dioxide, oxygen, carbon monoxide, acid gases and flammable gases. A thermocouple situated within the gas-sampling probe records gaseous temperature and a traffic light system on the detector indicates the state of a fire by flashing:

-Red if the fire is still alight or the gaseous mix is around explosive limits
-Amber if temperature and toxic gas levels are decreasing but still at critical levels
-Green if the fire is adequately controlled and there is minimal or no risk of explosion when oxygen enters through an opened door

All of the data generated by the detector is downloadable and can be used for post examination purposes.

QinetiQ originally developed RED for use on surface ships, but the system is ideal for use wherever sealed compartments are utilised.