Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing the tensile strength and bonding strength of sprayed-on foam insulation (12) attached to metal cryogenic fuel tanks (14). A circular cutter is used to cut the insulation (12) down to the surface of the metal tank to form plugs of the insulation (12) for testing "in situ" on the tank (14). The apparatus comprises an electro-mechanical pulling device (32) powered by a belt battery pack (34). The pulling device (32) comprises a motor (60) driving a mechanical pulling structure comprising a horizontal shaft (64) connected to two bell cranks (68) which are connected to a central member (74). When the lower end of member (74) is attached to fitting (20), which in turn is bonded to plug (10) (see FIG. 2), a pulling force is exerted on plug (10) sufficient to rupture it. The force necessary to rupture the plug (10) or pull it loose is displayed as a digital read-out (51) on screen (50).

Abstract: The invention relates to a spray system for a multi-ingredient ablative material wherein a nozzle A is utilized for suppressing overspray. The nozzle includes a cylindrical inlet (12) which converges at (12a) to a restricted throat (13). A curved juncture (15) between cylidrical inlet (12) and convergent portion (12c) having a predetermined radius of curvature affords unrestricted and uninterrupted flow of the ablative material. A divergent bell-shaped chamber (14) and adjustable nozzle exit B is utilized which provides a highly effective spray pattern in suppressing overspray to an acceptable level and producing a homogeneous jet of material that adheres well to the substrate.