System, apparatus, and method of preventing fuel tank explosion

A fire extinguishing system comprising:

• a plurality of air-separation modules that supplies an inert gas;
• an inert gas supply network connected with the plurality of air-separation modules to distribute the inert gas output;
• and
• a programmable controller operatively connected with the inert gas supply network to control how the inert gas output is distributed in response to a fire threat signal, wherein each of the plurality of air-separation modules includes a valve in communication with the programmable controller to control a pressurized inert gas flow from the plurality of air-separation modules into the inert gas supply network.

A method of extinguishing fire in an aircraft compartment, for use with a fire extinguishing system that includes a plurality of air separator modules, an inert gas supply network connected with the plurality of air separator modules to distribute the inert gas output, and a programmable controller operatively connected with the inert gas supply network to control how the inert gas output is distributed in response to a fire threat signal, the method involving the steps of:

• sealing a volume, to which the first inert gas output is directed, prior to releasing the inert gas output;
• introducing nitrogen produced by the plurality of air separator modules into a volume wherein the air fed into the plurality of air separator modules is compressed air originating from an engine air bleed;
• and
• establishing a flow of the inert gas output wherein the programmable controller is operable to change how the inert gas outputs is distributed to the volume in response to a malfunction in the inert gas supply network.