CARGO SMOKE Control Panel
Overview
The CARGO SMOKE Control Panel is designed to detect and suppress smoke in the forward (FWD) and aft (AFT) cargo compartments. It includes switches to initiate smoke detection and to discharge fire extinguishing agents when necessary.
This system is essential for in-flight fire protection and is monitored continuously for abnormalities.
Panel Components
FWD / AFT CARGO SMOKE Switches
- These are guarded toggle switches.
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Under normal conditions, the switches are released:
- No smoke is detected in the corresponding cargo compartment.
- The SMOKE and ARMED indicators remain dim.
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When smoke is detected, or when the FIRE SYS TEST switch is activated:
- The SMOKE indicator illuminates red.
- The ARMED indicator turns on to confirm readiness of the fire suppression system.
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If the switch is pushed:
- Ventilation to the affected cargo area is cut off.
- The associated CARGO SMOKE AGENT switch is armed for agent discharge.
Warning
Do not activate the smoke switch unless smoke is confirmed or instructed during fire drills or system tests.
CARGO SMOKE AGENT Switch
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This is a momentary push-button used to discharge the fire extinguishing agent.
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If only the SQUIB and DISCH indicators are off:
- The extinguishing system is armed and ready.
- Fire bottles are pressurized and squibs are operational.
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If the SQUIB light is on:
- Indicates normal readiness after pressing the SMOKE switch.
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If the DISCH light is on (amber):
- Indicates the fire agent has been discharged and the bottle pressure is low.
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If neither light illuminates after pressing the SMOKE switch:
- One or more extinguishers may be faulty (low pressure or failed squib).
- This condition requires maintenance action.
Note
Pressing the AGENT switch discharges the fire extinguishing bottle into the selected cargo compartment. The SQUIB light extinguishes once the discharge is complete.