In order to simulate anticipated
summer heat stress, we tested the
gear in a sauna of approx. 150-170F
(the thermometer broke at 140+ F
(maximum thermometer calibrated
scale 140F)). The temperature was
hot enough to make metal burn
exposed skin. We conducted the test
for 30 minutes, which included full
body armor/kevlar, and physical
exertion. To simulate the physical
activity of soldier patrols we did
push ups (in armor) and squats/knee
bends. Despite the searing heat, the
cooling gear was comfortable.
The simulation was halted after
30min due accomplishing the
simulation objective. Subsequent
inspection of the cooling gear
revealed the phase change packs in
the helmet had expended
approximately 50% of their charge,
while the packs in the vest still
retained 70% of their original
charge. The evaporative cooling
portion remained close to full
charge, as anticipated. This
demonstrates the gear will
effectively cool a soldier during
the intense Iraq/Kuwait summer, and
preserve physical capabilities.
Use of included swap out packs
and recommended cooling bag would
allow for extension of maximal
cooling for prolonged periods of
time, and should be considered for
long missions. The Modular Combat
Cooling System (MCCS) has been
redesigned for OIF 2005 to reduce
percieved bulk by less than 40% from
the 2004 design, and to allow packs
to be removed or exchanged in less
than 30 seconds, while on patrol,
without removing the interceptor OTV.
Hope this helps clarify the system's
capabilities.
We are happy to accept further
testing recommendations. More
feedback from Iraq/Kuwait will be
posted, when temperatures rise
closer to summer peaks. |
