EASA AMC 20-128A Fire Extinguisher Testing for Aircraft Use
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AMC 20-128A sets stringent standards for fire extinguishers used in aircraft. This regulatory document ensures the safety and reliability of firefighting equipment, which is crucial during emergencies on board commercial and general aviation aircraft.
Fire extinguishers are critical components that provide immediate relief from potential fires onboard an aircraft. Compliance with EASA AMC 20-128A guarantees that these devices perform reliably under the most challenging conditions, protecting passengers and crew members in case of a fire emergency.
The testing outlined in this regulation is designed to evaluate the performance characteristics of fire extinguishers, including their pressure, discharge rate, foam quality, and overall effectiveness. Testing must be conducted by accredited laboratories that have the expertise and equipment necessary to perform these stringent tests accurately.
Our laboratory specializes in providing comprehensive testing services for fire extinguishers according to EASA AMC 20-128A. Our team of experts ensures compliance with all relevant standards, including those outlined in ISO 7690 (Fire Extinguishers) and ASTM E587 (Standard Practice for Testing Fire Extinguishers).
When performing these tests, we follow a strict procedure that includes:
- Initial visual inspection of the fire extinguisher to ensure it meets all required specifications.
- Pressure testing to verify that the extinguisher maintains its pressure within specified limits.
- Discharge rate measurement, which checks how quickly the extinguishing agent is released from the device.
- Evaluation of foam quality and coverage area to ensure the fire suppressant adheres properly to flames.
The results of these tests are documented thoroughly in a report that includes detailed findings along with any deficiencies found during testing. Compliance with EASA AMC 20-128A is mandatory for all manufacturers and operators of aircraft, making our testing services essential for maintaining the highest level of safety standards.
Our laboratory has extensive experience in conducting these types of tests and can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your fire extinguishers meet the stringent requirements set forth by EASA. By partnering with us, you ensure not only regulatory compliance but also operational reliability during critical moments aboard aircraft.
Industry Applications
| Type of Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Manufacturing and Maintenance | Testing fire extinguishers during the manufacturing process and routine maintenance checks. |
| Airline Operators | Ensuring compliance with EASA regulations for all firefighting equipment in service. |
| General Aviation Operators | Meeting safety requirements for private and commercial aircraft operations. |
| Aircraft Component Suppliers | Guaranteeing that fire extinguisher components meet specified performance criteria. |
Quality and Reliability Assurance
- Pressure Testing: Ensures the integrity of the extinguisher under various conditions to prevent failure.
- Discharge Rate Measurement: Checks the rate at which the fire suppressant is released, ensuring rapid response during emergencies.
- Visual Inspection: Identifies any visible defects or signs of wear that could compromise performance.
- Environmental Testing: Evaluates how well the extinguisher performs under different environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Use Cases and Application Examples
In practice, these tests are conducted in controlled environments that simulate real-world scenarios. For instance:
- Aircraft Manufacturing: Testing fire extinguishers during assembly to ensure they meet EASA standards before integration into the aircraft.
- Maintenance and Repair: Routine checks of onboard fire suppression systems to maintain operational readiness.
- New Aircraft Delivery: Verifying that all firefighting equipment on newly delivered aircraft is in compliance with regulatory requirements.
