CHAPTER IV, SECTION 3
(Neg. No. W-680-1)
Figure No. 4-14.
Power Plant, Building 339 — Elmer.
ing, and other services required for approximately 165 generators used entirely or partly in
support of the scientific program. Generators
were adequate for the use indicated, and the
requirements for reliability and continuity of
power through zero time for the various test
detonations were satisfactorily met.
Distribution was through both overhead
and underground lines, depending on blast re-
sistance and other factors such as passing under
airstrips. Elmer distribution was converted to
4160 volts, and 4160 volts or 2400 volts were
used at other sites. Power was delivered at
208/117 volts through conveniently located
transformers.
There
were
several
outages
at
the base camps during critical test operational
periods, without serious results, due principally
to distribution line difficulties. In two cases
outages were due to traveling cranes cutting the
lines, while other incidents were caused by the
salt-laden atmosphere. An unusual incident
occurred as a result of the wave action from the
OAK event. The salt water intake to Building
347 on Elmer was completely bared as the wave
receded: the intake became buoyant and broke
loose so that the end remaining was in about
three feet of water at low tide. Air-cooled radiator units were readied in case it became necessary
to secure the salt water-cooled engines. Emergency replacement of the intake was effected in
minimum time.
(Neg. No. W-V-189-1)
Figure No. 4-15.
Auxiliary Power Plant — Nan.
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