System, method and apparatus for testing and evaluating flame resistance
AssigneeValmont Industries, Inc.
InventorsMark Ackerman, Fouad Hilmy Fouad, Aaron Schapper
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The present invention provides a testing apparatus which allows for the safe and cost-effective testing and evaluation of the heat and flame resistance of distribution pole specimens made of various types of materials such as concrete, steel and composites. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes an enclosure having an outer wall with torch ports to allow attached torches to apply flame and heat to an enclosed specimen. According to a further preferred embodiment, the enclosure includes a raised specimen support pedestal which includes a specimen support surface for supporting the enclosed specimen at a desired height.
Claims19
A system for testing and evaluating the flame resistance of pole samples, the system comprising:
- an enclosure, wherein the enclosure comprises an outer wall;
- wherein the outer wall comprises a plurality of torch ports;
- a plurality of torches, wherein the plurality of torches is configured to apply flame and heat to an enclosed specimen;
- a base plate;
- a specimen support pedestal, wherein the specimen support pedestal is attached to the base plate;
- wherein the specimen support pedestal comprises a specimen support surface for supporting a specimen;
- a fuel distribution system, wherein the fuel distribution system comprises a fuel source and a plurality of fuel lines configured to supply controlled amounts of fuel to the plurality of torches;
- wherein the fuel distribution system comprises a plurality of solenoid valves which are configured to control the amount of fuel supplied to the plurality of torches;
- wherein the fuel distribution system comprises an ignitor;
- a sensor system, wherein the sensor system comprises a plurality of sensors configured to detect temperature levels within the enclosure;
- and
- a system controller, wherein the system controller is configured to receive temperature data from the sensor system;
- wherein the system controller is configured to send control signals to the ignitor and the plurality of solenoid valves to control heat and flame levels within the enclosure;
- wherein the enclosure comprises an upper enclosure and a lower enclosure;
- wherein the upper enclosure is detachable from the lower enclosure;
- wherein the upper enclosure comprises an upper bolting flange and the lower enclosure comprises a lower bolting flange;
- wherein the upper bolting flange and the lower bolting flange are configured to be secured together using a plurality of securing bolts;
- wherein the base plate comprises a plurality of enclosure supports;
- wherein the enclosure is positioned to sit on top of the plurality of enclosure supports to maintain an air gap between the enclosure and the base plate.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.