Lovellette, Greg . 2005. How to Conduct Static Tests of Aerial Retardant Delivery Systems. 0557 2812. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program. 14 p.
Describes tests conducted, while an aircraft is on the ground, that can be used to measure the rate of retardant flow from tanks that deliver and drop retardant ahead of wildland fires. Generally, these static tests can be used only when more complex drop tests have been performed with a similar system. During drop tests an aircraft makes a drop over a grid of cups. The amount of retardant in each cup is measured to determine the pattern of the retardant's ground coverage. Because the flow rate is the biggest factor determining the pattern of ground coverage, static tests that determine the flow rate of particular tank and gating systems can provide valuable information less expensively than drop tests. The Interagency Airtanker Board establishes criteria for tank and gating systems. The board determines whether static or drop testing is required for new or modified tank and gating systems. The tests are conducted by teams from the Aerial Retardant Delivery Program at the Missoula and San Dimas Technology and Development Centers following the procedures described in this report.
Keywords: aerial delivery, aerial methods, field tests, flow rates, Interagency Airtanker Board, tank and gating systems, test procedures, testing, wildland fire chemical systems
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