Fire Protection Systems

Collins offers fire suppression hardware for protection against the full spectrum of aircraft fire hazard scenarios. The technology embraces single and multi-outlet spherical, cylindrical or radial tubular containers for liquid extinguishing agents, manufactured from stainless steel or titanium. It also includes solid propellant based suppression devices and dedicated electronic modules for system monitoring and control. These systems can be configured for either crew commanded or automatic activation.

Collins Aerospace provides various control and interface electronics compatible with sensor and extinguisher assemblies. Their advanced technologies include microprocessor-based control electronics used in aircraft such as the C-17, MD-11, B-2, 777, Global Express, and CRJ 700. They utilize MIL-STD-1553b and ARINC 429/629 data bus communication systems, AFOLTS/BIT architecture, and extensive built-in test features. Additionally, these systems are hardened against HIRF/EMI/Lightning and incorporate micro/miniaturization through surface mount technology in smoke and flame detectors.

Collins Aerospace offers a non-Halon fire extinguisher for use in aircraft cabins. The Halotron BrX™ (2-BTP) “Green” Handheld Cabin Extinguisher is an environmentally-safe drop-in replacement for existing Collins units. The extinguisher has passed UL 711 5B:C, 2B cold temperature and FAA MPS tests.

The Collins Aerospace Kidde G800100 and G825100 series for Boeing and Bombardier aircraft are drop-in replacements for the Halon A800100 and A825100 units in many legacy aircraft fleets. The extinguishers activate automatically at 170°F (77°C). Inert nitrogen under pressure propels the extinguishant via discharge nozzles, which are configured by aircraft model. To extinguish the fire, discharge lasts between three and five seconds.

Collins Aerospace's optical flame detector (OFD) detects fires by utilizing the 4.3 micrometer infrared band to sense the infrared energy produced by CO₂ molecules in a hydrocarbon fire, amplifying and processing the signal to distinguish it from non-fire sources. An optional built-in test (BIT) feature ensures full detector functionality by using an internal infrared source to simulate a fire. The 4.3µ OFD meets MIL F 23447 requirements and is FAA TSO C79 approved, protecting helicopters such as the Sikorsky S-76, S-92, and the RAH-66 Comanche.

Collins Aerospace's advanced pneumatic detectors eliminate nuisance false alarms caused by exposure to the rigors of aircraft engine environments. They are fully qualified to MILF 7872C and meet FAA TSO C11e approval requirements.