The thermopneumatic elements, which monitor
the temperature of the magazine and activate the
sprinkler system, generate a pneumatic signal in
response to thermal action. The pneumatic signal can
be either a sudden increase or decrease in air pressure,
which will actuate the sprinkler system.
The automatic control system consists of
fixed-temperature units (FTUs), heat-actuated devices
(HADs) heat-sensing devices (HSDs), transmission
lines (Rockbestos™-covered copper tubing), circle
seal check valves, and a pneumatically released pilot
(PRP) valve. Manual control valves located at separate
local and remote control stations are used to activate
the system manually.
Wet-Type Sprinkler System
A wet-type sprinkler system is one in which the
piping between the outlet side of the main sprinkler
valve and the sprinkler heads is charged with fresh
water. Once the system is activated, the fresh water is
immediately discharged and replaced by salt water.
Although wet-type sprinkler systems do contain
quite a few more components than dry-type systems,
they function on similar principles. The main
advantage of wet systems is a very rapid response time.
Sprinkling starts approximately 1 second after
activation.
For technical operating information on both types
of sprinkler systems, refer to the instruction book,
NAVSEA 0348-LP-078-1000, Magazine Sprinkler
System.
Q8. What are the five major types of shipboard
magazines?
Q9. What type of ammunition stowage spaces are
frequently located on ship’s weather decks?
Q10. What alarm circuit is known as the
“high-temperature alarm”?
Q11. What alarm circuit is known as the “magazine
sprinkler alarm”?
Q12. Under normal conditions, how often should you
take magazine temperature readings?
Q13. How should magazine temperatures that are in
excess of 100 F be recorded in the permanent
temperature log?
Q14. What does an “AMMUNITION FAR SIDE” sign
look like?
Q15. What
are
the
two
basic
types
of
hydraulically-controlled sprinkler systems?
Q16. Which type of sprinkler system uses fresh water to
charge the piping between the outlet side of the
main sprinkler valve and the sprinkler heads?
SUMMARY
You have an important responsibility to handle,
ship, and stow ammunition and explosives safely.
Remember, the safety precautions and instructions
pertaining to the safe operation and use of ammunition
and explosives handling equipment must be strictly
observed by all naval activities afloat and ashore. The
task of ammunition and explosives handling is
enormous and, by nature, inescapably hazardous.
Mishaps arising in ammunition and explosives
handling can kill and injure personnel, destroy
essential supplies, and damage valuable equipment
and property. Many of these mishaps are caused by
carelessness or unfamiliarity with the use and
limitations of handling equipment, as well as
relaxation or failure to observe safety precautions,
orders, and regulations pertaining to the handling and
stowage of ammunition and explosives. You can
prevent the mishaps that are caused by misuse of
handling equipment if you take the time to understand
the use and limitations of the handling equipment.
Safety precautions and instructions are a vital element
of safe ammunition and explosives handling
operations. Give them careful and constant study.
ANSWERS TO CHAPTER QUESTIONS
A1. To warn personnel of hazards that can cause
personal injury.
A2. To draw attention to situations that may be
potentially damaging to equipment.
A3. To ensure that each person is qualified and
certified before performing any task involving
explosives.
A4. The type commander.
A5. For a maximum of 12 months, unless it is revoked
for cause.
A6. A logistics movement.
A7. NAVSEA SW020-AC-SAF-010, Volume 1 and
Volume 2, Transportation and Storage Data for
Ammunition, Explosives and Related Hazardous
Materials.
5-17
