Pitch Proves Best Extinguisher For Magnesium Bombs

Contenuto

Granulated or flaked pitch is now regarded by the U. S. Bureau of Mines as the best extinguisher for magnesium incendiary bombs. Spread over the burning bomb, the layer of hard coal-tar pitch will melt at about 300 degrees Fahrenheit and form an airtight blanket that quickly smothers the flame. Before attacking a bomb, a minute’s wait is advisable to let the thermit burn itself out. Then, if the bomb is on concrete metal, use a long-handled shovel to spread - not throw - a layer of pitch on it, following with another layer if a short flame persists. Then it can be allowed to cool for 10 minutes, even if smoking, before removing in a bucket. If the bomb is on a wood floor, a layer of pitch should first be spread on to stop heat and glare, then spread pitch on the floor near-by, rake the bomb into it and cover the mass with more pitch. Protective clothing and goggles should be worn, since some incendiary bombs contain mild explosive, charges. The Bureau of Mines recom-mends keeping 25- or 50-pound lots of pitch in boxes or bags with a shovel nearby.

Titolo: Pitch Proves Best Extinguisher For Magnesium Bombs
Oggetto: en Technology; en Anti-aircraft
Article Title and/or Image Caption: Pitch Proves Best Extinguisher For Magnesium Bombs
Lingua: Eng
Copertura temporale: World War II
Data di rilascio: 1942-04
pagine: 80
Diritti: Public domain
Sorgente: Google books
Referenzia: United States Bureau of Mines
Archived by: Enrico Saonara

Media: Pitch Proves Best Extinguisher For Magnesium Bombs