Possibilities of Using Mobile Fans and the Parameters Conditioning the Effectiveness of Tactical Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the article is to indicate the possible scope of application of mobile fans during the execution of rescue actions and identification of the parameters conditioning the effectiveness of using this type of units. Method Design: Mobile overpressure fans are a tool used during rescue operations mainly to remove hot gases and smoke, which accumulate in confined spaces covered by fire – primarily within the evacuation routes, but also in the rooms. In literature there are examples of other uses of the considered fans, e.g. to support the liquidation of fire hazards of free-standing objects (i.e. fires of cars or containers) and the rescue of trapped people in inaccessible spaces by supplying fresh air. This paper, which is based on literature review, is devoted to providing an approximation of the above applications. The effective use of mobile fans requires specialized theoretical and practical preparation. Therefore, the study also identified factors that may determine the successful implementation of the adopted tactical intent, which include in particular: the selection of appropriate openings (outlet and inlet), the selection of the gas exchange path and the proper positioning of a mobile fan. Conclusions: Literature analysis of the problem presented in this paper will be a fundamental point of reference for the research work carried out in subsequent stages related to the evaluation of the efficiency of mobile fans. As part of this work, large-scale tests will be carried out using appropriately designed and constructed test benches to evaluate the effectiveness of mobile units in real conditions. The knowledge gained in this way is intended to serve as material for further considerations on the creation of concepts of both subsequent methodologies and test stands required for their implemen- tation, enabling the verification of parameters characterizing the efficiency and reliability of mobile fans. Keywords: mobile positive pressure fans, tactical mechanical ventilation, rescue operations Type of article: review article

Positive pressure ventilator of a conventional type working in sets – analysis of the effectiveness of positioning methods

“…Proper positioning of the ventilator, selection of openings (air mass inlet and outlet), making the gas exchange path, monitoring environmental conditions (e.g. wind influx) is an important aspect of the rescue operations in progress 2 . Focusing on the issue of positioning the mobile ventilator, it should be emphasized that the positive pressure ventilator should be positioned in such a manner in which it works most efficiently, which is measured by assessing the volume flow rate injected into the building volume.…”

“…Achieved air flow rates for the tested configurations(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11), where AVGarithmetic mean of the flow rate (m 3 /h) and confidence interval (p=0.05).…”

Problems of operation of positive pressure ventilators on the basis of surveys of Polish officers of the State Fire Service

“…and under pressure ventilation (PPV), positive pressure attack (PPA), assisting evacuation from a re-affected facility, suppressing res of freestanding structures, etc. 37 .…”

Experimental studies of the influence of mobile fan positioning parameters on the ability to transport the air stream into the door opening

“…To combat the risk of smoke during internal fires, firefighters use mobile fans taking into account various mechanical ventilation techniques, e.g., positive pressure ventilation (PPV) or negative pressure ventilation 6 . The literature on the subject also indicates other possibilities of using these devices, respectively: supporting activities related to the elimination of fire hazards of free-standing objects (e.g.…”

“…The literature on the subject also indicates other possibilities of using these devices, respectively: supporting activities related to the elimination of fire hazards of free-standing objects (e.g. cars or garbage containers), ventilation of hard-to-reach places (where people stay)—with the use of electric fans 6 . Referring to devices (including positive pressure ventilators) used in rescue operations, it is indicated that they should be characterized by high operational reliability, efficiency, and functionality and should have little impact on the user 6 , 7 .…”