Date of Award

5-4-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

First Advisor

Professor Bahram Nassersharif

Abstract

This project aims to develop a burner system to test insensitive munitions for our client, Joe Livolsi, representing NOSSA and the US Navy. The main objective is to substitute the existing process of burning huge amounts of jet fuel with more environmentally friendly propane burners. To do that successfully, we had to adhere to extremely high military standards that called for the fire to be at least 800 degrees Celsius and have at least 550 degrees Celsius within 30 seconds of ignition. Also, the height of the fire should exceed 1 meter, and the entire design should not exceed a scaled value of $60,000. Finally, we came up with a modular pipe matrix using very thin steel pipes with a diameter of one-eighth inch. To make the fire extremely hot, we employed liquid propane by placing the tank upside down. For security purposes, we introduced a very long spacer pipe and remote starter battery-powered switch, which will enable us to maintain a safe distance between the large and extremely dangerous explosive tank and the huge flames.In order to retain the heat, we added brick wind walls and outer plywood barriers around the burner. Our final physical test was a total success since it met all military requirements. The fire was able to burn at a temperature of 559 degrees Celsius within 30 seconds and reached its peak temperature of 819 degrees Celsius. It was also able to produce flames up to 1.5 meters long which surpassed the height requirement. Furthermore, the fire burned cleanly without releasing any black fumes containing toxic chemicals. Lastly, we were able to construct the system within budget, which when compared to the actual military budget, we ended up spending $20,000 less than their budget.

Comments

Team Name: Team 12

Company Sponsor: Naval Ordnance Safety and Security Activity (NOSSA)

Sponsor Representative: Joseph LiVolsi

Document Reference: URI-MCE-2026-FDR-012

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