The continuing occurrence of fires in systems processing oxidizing gases necessitates further analysis into likely causes. Oil contamination and damaged softgoods have been identified as burning components, while adiabatic compression and particle impact have been identified as ignition sources. This work reports experimental observations on a simulated primary pressure control module in the presence of oil contamination under repeated compression of oxygen. This system is mathematically modeled and studied for the effects of parameter variation. Model parameters are ullage volume, pressure ratio, oil film thickness, softgoods thickness, drop size, and heat transfer. Model analysis is validated by the experimental results.

A generic, lumped parameter heat transfer model of combinations of oil film, softgoods, and metal heat transfer surfaces is developed. This model allows for consideration of damaged softgoods under these previous conditions, and demonstrates the greater susceptibility for fires such a system presents.