Shortly after leaving the shipyards following a major overhaul, we experienced an explosion caused by a single nut that was tightened too much. The nut was holding together the main disconnect plates to the sub’s after battery. These plates formed the connection point between the after battery and the rest of the propulsion system for the submarine. This battery contained enough power to light a small city for several days. When properly contained, such power is both marvelous and yet dangerous at the same time.
After Battery Explosion By Al Vester The air thumped with an ominous bump And men ran out all babbling shouts, Until one cry was heard above the mad route “Explosion in the after-battery” And there hung fear for a split second poised As every day cares became childish toys. Then, speed shouted “Move” and everyone jumped To bring the right gear to the source of the thump, Extinguishers, canisters, and OBA’s[1] too, Were wrenched from their racks with little ado. Some men were injured and blankets demanded, Two seconds later three blankets were handed To help the poor guys with the scorched face and eyes. A fire-blacked, shock-shaken wreck of a man Was lead to his bed by a friend at each hand. The bed was a table in the officer’s mess, A table of law and of food and of jest, But for a table of mercy t’was suited the best. For two days and three nights, the guard watch was kept Over the bed of the chief while he slept By four of his shipmates, who watched with a care Beyond what just duty would possibly dare. Five men were burned when a strained wrench slipped On a nut that wouldn’t turn and a terminal was clipped. The atom’s been tamed and electricity stored, Vast powers we’ve claimed never dreamed of before. But those powers are hung like a sword by a thread, Awaiting the chance to drop on our head. [1] OBA – Oxygen Breathing Apparatus, a device that provides air for fire-fighters in a sealed compartment.
First Lesson of fire and technology – Don’t get burned
Fire is a wonderful servant, but a terrible master. For all the warming, cooking, and other uses of fire, for which mankind has depended on for ages, we still struggle when a fire gets out of control. Continue reading “Technology and Fire”