Ignition core, conductive

One area in which this technology is making inroads is in the manufacture of conductive ignition core. Schematics comparing this system for producing a silicone conductive core (Figure 3) to the solvent dispersion method traditionally used (Figure 4) are shown. 

A more elaborated approach is that of Frank-Kamenetski who relaxed the assumption of homogeneous solid temperature allowing conduction within the solid. A similar eigenvalue analysis will lead again to a critical ignition temperature (Tc) and the ambient temperature required for ignition to occur (T0). Nevertheless, the ambient temperature, given that conduction of heat from the core to ambient is allowed, becomes a function of the volume of the solid, and hence, for each 7 0 a critical volume, Vc is obtained. 

On March 22, 1975, a major fire occurred at TVA s Browns Ferry nuclear plants near Decatur, Alabama. This event was a close call that very nearly led to core damage. In the process of looking for air leaks in an area containing trays of electrical cables that supplied power to the plants control room and safety systems, a technician set off the fire. He used a lighted candle to conduct the search, and the open flame ignited the insulation around the... 

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