In this update, Jason explores the testing process and three innovative approaches to firewall design:

• Using stainless steel or titanium as a fire barrier, as seen in most helicopters. While effective, this method is heavy and limits design flexibility.
• Applying flame-resistant coatings to lightweight composite panels, offering a balance of weight savings and fire protection.
• Developing panels made from specialised resins that maintain integrity during exposure to high heat, holding together long enough to meet safety requirements.

We’ve created a simple test rig to simulate certification conditions and evaluate the performance of these materials under intense heat.