Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 0: COURSE OVERVIEW 

Page 1 of 1 

ITEM DESCRIPTION 

RED DRAGON PSD

CROSS TRAINING

INTERAGENCY 

RED DRAGON PSD 

CROSS TRAINING

Instructor 

Qualifications 

1. Qualified and current as a plastic sphere dispenser operator and 

any helicopter manager qualifications. 

2. Approval of regional helicopter operations specialist or 

state/regional aviation manager. 

I. Introduction 

A. Welcome and cadre introductions 

B. Housekeeping 

1. Phone messages 

2. Restrooms 

3. Fire exits 

4. Vending machines 

5. Coffee 

6. Local area accommodations/directions 

Course Overview Course Overview

Course Outline

• UNIT 1: PSD Function and Maintenance

• UNIT 2: Operations

• UNIT 3: Ground Qualification

• UNIT 4: PSD Flight Qualification

II. Course Outline 

A. UNIT 1: PSD Function and Maintenance 

B. UNIT 2: Operations 

C. UNIT 3: Ground Qualification 

D. UNIT 4: PSD Flight Qualification 

Course Overview Course Overview

Logistics

• Prerequisites

• Plan of Events

• PLDO Task Sheet

• Field Requirements

• Test Requirements

III. Logistics 

A. Review prerequisites. 

B. Discuss the plan of events: class, bench test, field ops. 

C. Distribute and explain the PLDO Task Sheet. 

D. Review field requirements: PPE, lunches, water, and 

transportation. 

E. Review the test requirements. 

Instructor Note Information in this syllabus corresponding to test questions is 

highlighted with a contrasting background. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 1 of 7 

ITEM DESCRIPTION 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Unit Objectives 

UNIT 2

PSD FUNCTION & MAINTENANCE PSD FUNCTION & MAINTENANCE

Unit Objectives:

• Dispenser Components and Functions

• Ignition Sphere Properties

• Assemble and Disassemble the PSD

• Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Know the basic parts of the dispenser and their function. 

2. Become familiar with the ignition spheres used in the unit. 

3. Be able to assemble and disassemble the dispenser. 

4. Perform routine cleaning and maintenance. 

Class Time 2 classroom hours

Materials, 

Equipment, & 

Handouts 

Materials: 

Equipment: 

Handouts: 

1. Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide (IAIG) 

2. Red Dragon Operations Manual 

Red Dragon PSD 

None 

Instructor Note You will need to set up the Red Dragon PSD in front of the class. 

I. Introduction 

The function of the dispenser is to inject an ethylene glycol mixture 

into a plastic sphere containing potassium permanganate and to 

expel the primed sphere from the aircraft after which an 

exothermic reaction takes place. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Mounting System

206 Series Adapter

Y Strap

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

II. Parts of the dispenser and function 

A. Mounting System 

1. Removable adapter fits body contour of Bell 206 series 

aircraft. For aircraft with flat cabin floors, adapter is not 

required. 

2. Nylon “Y” strap secures dispenser to the aircraft. Standard 

strap suits all type III helicopters. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Tank Assembly Glycol Filler Water Filler

Water Drain 

Valve

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

B. Tank Assembly: 

1. Acts as a frame to which other components are mounted 

2. Contains the water and glycol tanks. 

3. Water Level Switch. 

4. Drain valves for tanks. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 2 of 7 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Hopper

Lock Handle

Removable Lid

Ref: Red Dragon Operations Manual, Sec 1 Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

C. Hopper: 

1. Stores 950 unprimed spheres. 

2. Agitator provides a constant supply of spheres to the feed 

gates. 

3. Receives power from gate assembly via an automatically 

mating plug. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Feed Gate Assembly

Manual Gate Control Feed Gates

Open Solenoid

Close Solenoid

Ref: Red Dragon Operations Manual, Sec 1

Feed Gate 

Control Rod

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

D. Feed Gate Assembly: 

1. Controls the flow of spheres from the Hopper into the 

Injection Head. 

2. Easily removable from the Injection Head. 

3. Feed gate position controlled by a toggle switch on the 

remote control. 

4. Manual overide to close and lock the feedgate. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Injection Head

Handwheel

Water Nozzle

Shuttle Glycol Pump

Cam

Injection Needle

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

E. Injection Head: 

1. Injects the spheres with glycol. 

2. One reciprocating shuttle with two sphere cavities. 

3. Two constant displacement glycol pumps that inject the 

same amount of glycol regardless of drop rate. No need to 

calibrate. 

4. Water nozzles connected to the emergency water tank and 

pump to direct water into the injection chamber. 

5. Manual handwheel to drive cam and shuttle in case of 

power failure. Machine can be turned in either direction. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Outlet Chute

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

Outlet Chute

F. Outlet Chute: 

1. Guides primed spheres from the Injection Head to a point 

below the aircraft. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 3 of 7 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Main Control Panel

Power 

Indicator

Run / Stop 

Switch

Count Reset 

Switch

Water Pump 

Switch

LED 

Display

Motor Fault 

Indicator

Low Water 

Indicator Run 

Indicator

Water Pump 

Indicator

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

G. Main Control Panel: 

1. Houses the main control board, switches and indicators. 

2. “RUN/STOP” switch controls the hopper motor and enables 

the injection drive motor. 

3. “WATER” switch activates the emergency water pump. 

This switch is always active because of battery backup. 

4. “RESET” switch controls the count display. Pushing the 

switch toggles between trip count and lifetime count. 

Pushing and holding resets the trip count. 

5. “POWER” indicator illuminates when the machine is 

connected to an external power source. 

6. “RUN/STOP” indicator illuminates when the hopper motor is 

turned on. It flashes when the injection drive motor is 

running. 

7. “MOTOR FAULT” indicator illuminates when the injection 

drive is jammed. 

8. “LOW WATER” indicator illuminates when the water level is 

too low and the machine will not start. 

9. Pump indicator illuminates when the emergency water 

pump is operating. 

10. Segment LED displays the sphere count and low battery 

warning message. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Tethered Remote Control

Speed Control

Gate Switch

Power 

Indicator

Run 

Indicator

Fault 

Indicator

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

H. Tethered Remote Control: 

1. Controls the feed gates and adjusts the drop rate. 

2. Seven-position “SPEED” knob to adjust the drop rate. 

3. “FEED GATE” momentary toggle switch opens and closes 

the feed gates and controls the injection drive motor. 

4. “POWER” indicator illuminates when dispenser is 

connected to an external power source. 

5. “RUN/STOP” indicator illuminates when hopper motor is 

turned on. It flashes when injection drive motor is running. 

6. “FAULT” indicator flashes when there is a problem. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 4 of 7 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 1 

Red Dragon Components Red Dragon Components

Power Cords

Main Power Cord Auxiliary Power Cord

Photo: Nancy Argyle, © SEI Industries Ltd.

I. Power Cords: 

1. Main power cord connects dispenser to aircraft’s power 

system using standard MS3116F-12-3P plug. 

2. Auxiliary power cord connects to auxiliary power supply or 

batteries. 

III. Red Dragon Specifications 

A. Performance: 

# of Speeds 7 

Min Drop Rate 25 spheres per minute 

Max Drop Rate 175 spheres per minute 

Hopper Capacity 950 spheres 

B. Power: 

Voltage 24-32 VDC 

Connector MS3116F-12-3P (A +28, B Gnd) 

Circuit Breaker 5A, MS3320 

C. Fluid Volumes: 

Glycol Tank 0.8 gal 3.2 liter (5000 spheres) 

Water Tank (Full) 0.5 gal 1.9 liter 

Water Tank(Min) 0.4 gal 1.5 liter 

D. Weights: 

Red Dragon 48.0 lb 21.8 kg 

Spheres (950) 10.0 lb 4.5 kg 

Ethylene Glycol 7.9 lb 3.6 kg 

Emergency Water 4.1 lb 1.9 kg 

Operational Weight 70.0 lb 31.8 kg

E. Dimensions: 

Length 24.5 in 63 cm 

Width 10.8 in 27 cm 

Height (No Base) 19.0 in 61 cm 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 5 

Red Dragon Specifications Red Dragon Specifications

Performance

Number of Speeds 7

Min Drop Rate 25 spheres / min

Max Drop Rate 175 spheres / min

Hopper Capacity 950 spheres

Power

Voltage 24-32 VDC

Connector MS3116F-12-3P

Circuit Breaker 5A, MS3220

Red Dragon Specifications Red Dragon Specifications

Fluid Volumes

Glycol Tank 0.8 gal 3.2 liter 

Water Tank (Full) 0.5 gal 1.9 liter

Water Tank (Min) 0.4 gal 1.5 liter

Weights

Dispenser 48.0 lb 21.8 kg

Spheres (950) 10.0 lb 4.5 kg

Ethylene Glycol 7.9 lb 3.6 kg

Water 4.1 lb 1.9 kg

Operational Weight 70.0 lb 31.8 kg

Red Dragon Specifications Red Dragon Specifications

Dimensions

Length 24.5 in 63 cm

Width 10.8 in 27 cm

Height (No Base) 19.0 in 61 cm

Height (206 Base) 24.0 in 48 cm

Height (with Base) 24.0 in 48 cm 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 5 of 7 

IV. Dragon Egg Aerial Ignition Spheres 

A. One inch diameter plastic sphere containing potassium 

permanganate (KMnO4) which reacts with ethylene glycol to 

produce a delayed ignition. 

B. Specifications: 

Diameter 1.0 in 25 mm 

Potassium Permanganate 0.11 oz 3.0 g 

Total Mass 0.17 oz 4.8 g 

Shell Material High Impact Polystyrene 

Dragon Egg Specifications Dragon Egg Specifications

Diameter 1.0 in 26 mm

Potassium Permanganate 0.11 oz 3.0 g

Total Mass 0.17 oz 4.8 g

Shell Material High Impact Polystyrene

Ignition Delay 20-30s @ 50°F

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

Ignition Delay 20-30s @50°F 

Dragon Egg Ignition Spheres Dragon Egg Ignition Spheres

Ignition Delay Variables

• Temperature

• Humidity

• Amount of Glycol

Photo: Matt Davis, SEI Industries Ltd.

C. Ignition Delay Variables: 

Ignition delay is typically 20-30s, but depends on the following 

parameters: 

1. Temperature 

2. Humidity 

3. Amount of Ethylene Glycol 

Ethylene Glycol Ethylene Glycol

Which Antifreeze to Use?

• Use Standard Vehicle Antifreeze (90 - 100% Ethylene Glycol)

• Do not use 50/50 Pre-Mixed Antifreeze

• Do not use Propylene Glycol Antifreeze (Non-Toxic)

V. Ethylene Glycol 

A. Use standard vehicle antifreeze which is 90-100% ethylene 

glycol. 

B. Do not use 50/50 premix antifreeze. 

C. Do not propylene glycol based antifreezes which are usually 

labeled as non-toxic. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 6 of 7 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 6 

Cleaning and Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance

Tool Kit

• 1/4” Slotted Screwdriver

• #1 Phillips Screwdriver

• 7/16” Combination Wrenches

• Long Nose Pliers

• 1/8” Allen Key Wrench

• 2.5 mm Allen Key Wrench

• Metal Bristle Brush

• Sharpening Stone

• Tip Cleaner Set

• Scotch Brite Abrasive Pad

VI. Cleaning and Maintenance 

A. Tool Kit 

1. 1/4” Slotted Screwdriver 

2. #1 Phillips Screwdriver 

3. 7/16” Combination Wrenches 

4. Long Nose Pliers 

5. 1/8” Allen Key Wrench 

6. 2.5 mm Allen Key Wrench 

7. Tip Cleaner Set 

8. Metal Bristle Brush 

9. Scotch Brite Abrasive Pad 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 6 

Cleaning and Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance

Spare Parts

• 8mm x 32” Red Drain Tube

• 6mm x 12” Blue Tube

• 6mm x 12” Red Tube

• (2) Injection Needles

• (2) 6mm Tube Caps

B. Spare Parts 

1. (2) Injection Needles 

2. 6mm x 12” Blue Tube 

3. 6mm x 12” Red Tube 

4. 8mm x 32” Red Drain Tube 

5. (2) 6mm Tube Caps 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 6 

Cleaning and Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaners & Lubricants

• Use Citrus Based Cleaner / Degreaser

• No Petroleum Based Lubricants

C. Cleaners and Lubricants 

1. Use a citrus based cleaner / degreaser to clean the Red 

Dragon (Simple Green® or equivalent). 

2. The running surfaces of the injection head are selflubricating. Do not lubricate with products such as WD-40 

or light machine oil. These will cause potassium 

permanganate residue to accumulate and may cause 

mechanical seizure. 

Red Dragon 

Operations Manual 

Section 6 

Daily Cleaning Daily Cleaning

Hopper

• Wipe down hopper

• Check linkages for wear

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

D. Daily Cleaning 

1. Hopper 

a. Remove the hopper from the Red Dragon 

b. Empty any remaining spheres. 

c. Wipe down interior of hopper 

d. Check agitator and linkage for signs of wear. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 1: PSD FUNCTION AND MAINTENANCE 

Page 7 of 7 

Daily Cleaning Daily Cleaning

Gate Assembly

• Remove gate assembly from injection head.

• Unlock the feed gate control rod 

• Clean the sphere paths.

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

2. Gate Assembly 

a. Unlock gate and remove assembly from injection head. 

b. Unlock the feed gate control rod using screwdriver. 

c. Clean the sphere paths using a cloth and a citrus based 

cleaner / degreaser. 

d. Close gates using manual knob and check lock. 

Daily Cleaning Daily Cleaning

Glycol Pumps

• Remove glycol pump assemblies from injection head

• Clean using cloth and cleaner / degreaser as required

• Check condition of needles and sharpen as required

• Check pump operation 

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

3. Glycol Pumps 

a. Remove glycol pump assemblies from injection head 

b. Clean using cloth and cleaner / degreaser as required 

c. Check condition of needles and sharpen as required. 

d. Check pump operation. 

Daily Cleaning Daily Cleaning

Injection Head

• Wire brush the injection shuttle and injection block as required.

• Clean using a cloth and cleaner / degreaser.

• Rotate handwheel and check for smooth operation and signs 

of wear. 

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

4. Injection Head 

a. Loosen any potassium permanganate residue from the 

shuttle and injection block using the wire brush 

provided. 

b. Clean the surfaces of the injection block and shuttle 

using a cloth and cleaner / degreaser as required. 

c. Rotate the handwheel and check for smooth operation 

d. Check cam guides and shuttle guides for signs of wear. 

e. Replace the glycol pumps. 

5. Tank Assembly 

a. Wipe down surfaces with cloth to remove and glycol 

b. Check tanks and lines for signs of leakage. 

Long Term Storage Long Term Storage

Drain Tanks

• Drain the glycol tank

• Drain the water tank

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

E. Long Term Storage 

1. Drain the glycol tank. 

a. Insert drain tubing into drain valve. 

b. Using screwdriver, rotate drain valve so slot is vertical. 

c. Close drain valve when empty. 

2. Drain the water tank. 

a. Insert drain tubing into drain valve. 

b. Using screwdriver, rotate drain valve so slot is vertical. 

c. Close drain valve when empty. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 2: OPERATIONS 

Page 1 of 3 

ITEM DESCRIPTION 

UNIT 2: OPERATIONS 

Unit Objectives 

UNIT 4

OPERATIONS OPERATIONS

Unit Objectives:

• Pre-Operational Events

• Operational Events

• Firing Commands and Actions

• Emergency Procedures

• Post Operational Events

1. Bench Testing 

2. Installation & Pre-Flight Checks 

3. Firing Commands and Actions 

4. Emergency Procedures 

Class Time 1 hour classroom

Materials, 

Equipment, & 

Handouts 

Materials: 

Equipment: 

Handouts: 

1. Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide (IAIG) 

2. Red Dragon Operations Manual

Red Dragon PSD 

None 

Pre - Operational Events Operational Events

PSD Bench Test

• Confirm PSD Operation

• Confirm Sphere Ignition

• No Calibration

Photo: Mark Toeckes, SEI Industries Ltd.

I. PSD Bench Test 

A. The purpose of the bench test is to confirm proper operation of 

PSD and proper sphere ignition. 

B. This test need only be conducted once at the start of a multiday operation. 

Instructor Note Details of the Bench Test Procedure will be covered in Unit #3. 

Operational Events Operational Events

Ref: IAIG Ch III.VIII.A & Ch III.VIII.B

PSD Installation

• Prepare PSD Outside 

Aircraft Safety Circle.

• Prepare Aircraft.

• Install PSD in Aircraft

Pre-Flight Checks

• Check function of PSD

II. Installation & Pre-Flight Checks 

A. Machine Installation 

B. Pre-flight Checks 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 2: OPERATIONS 

Page 2 of 3 

III. PSD Operation 

A. Firing Commands and Actions 

Firing Boss Command PSD Operator 

Action 

PSD Operator 

Reply 

“Prepare to Fire” Switch to RUN “Ready to Fire” 

“Start Firing Speed X” Select Speed X 

Feed Gate OPEN “Firing Speed X” 

“Prepare to Stop Firing” Grasp Remote Control “Ready to Stop Firing” 

“Stop Firing” Feed Gate CLOSE 

Check Gate Closed “Gates Closed” 

 Check Drive Stopped “Machine Cleared” 

IAIG Ch III.XI.A 

PSD Operation PSD Operation

Firing Boss

Command

“Prepare to Fire”

PSD Operator

Action

PSD Operator

Reply

Switch to RUN “Ready to Fire”

“Start Firing Speed X” Select SPEED X

Feed Gate OPEN “Firing Speed X”

“Prepare to Stop Firing” Grasp Remote Control “Ready to Stop Firing”

“Stop Firing” Feed Gate CLOSE

Check Gate Closed “Gates Closed”

Check Drive Stopped “Machine Cleared”

“Secure Machine” Switch to STOP “Machine Secured”

Ref: IAIG Ch III.XI.A

Firing Commands and Actions

“Secure Machine” Switch to STOP “Machine Secured” 

Operational Events Operational Events

Purge Sequence

• After gate closed, the drive motor runs to purge remaining 

three spheres.

• Three revolutions.

• Increase speed to shorten purge time

B. Purge Sequence 

1. After the feed gate is closed, the drive motor continues to 

run to purge the three remaining spheres in the PSD. 

2. Two revolutions are required, but the machine runs for 

three revolutions just in case. 

3. To shorten purge time, operator can increase speed. 

Operational Events Operational Events

Anti-Jam Sequence

• Controller detects jam if the motor should be turning, but it is not.

• Motor reverses direction at slow speed for a fraction of a second 

to allow the jam to clear.

• “MOTOR FAULT” indicator on the main control panel illuminates

• The “FAULT” indicator on the remote control flashes.

• Motor resumes forward operation at the selected speed.

• Fault indicators extinguish.

C. Anti-Jam Sequence 

1. Controller can detect a jam when the motor should be 

turning, but it is not. 

2. When a jam is detected, the motor reverses direction at 

slow speed for a fraction of a second to allow the jam to 

clear. 

3. The “MOTOR FAULT” indicator on the main control panel 

illuminates 

4. The “FAULT” indicator on the remote control illuminates. 

5. The motor then resumes operation in the forward direction 

at the selected speed. 

6. The fault indicators extinguish. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 2: OPERATIONS 

Page 3 of 3 

Emergency Procedure Emergency Procedure

Power 

Failure

Sphere 

Jam

PSD 

Fire

PSD 

Jettison

Emergency Procedure Emergency Procedure

Power Failure

• Notify the pilot of the situation.

• Press the manual feed gate control.

• Clear machine with manual handwheel.

• Investigate the cause of the power failure.

Sphere Jam

• Notify the pilot of the situation.

• Press the manual feed gate control.

• Clear machine with manual handwheel.

• Failure to clear may lead to fire in dispenser.

IV. Emergency Procedures 

D. Power Failure 

1. Notify the pilot of the situation. 

2. Press the manual feed gate control. 

3. Operator clears machine with handwheel. 

4. Investigate cause of power failure. 

E. Jammed Sphere 

1. Notify the pilot of the situation. 

2. Press the manual feed gate control. 

3. Operator clears machine with handwheel. 

Emergency Procedure Emergency Procedure

Fire in Dispenser

• Notify the pilot of the situation.

• Press and hold the emergency water switch until the fire is 

extinguished.

• If the emergency water pump fails to extinguish the fire, pour 

water from the canteen into the hopper.

Fire Extinguished

• Switch the RUN/STOP switch to the STOP position.

• Watch the machine for 3 minutes for possible smoke before 

leaving the ignition unit.

• Land and perform manual and visual inspection to identify 

and solve the problem.

F. Fire in Dispenser 

1. Notify the pilot of the situation. 

2. Press the emergency water switch until the fire is 

extinguished. 

3. There is an emergency backup battery, and the water pump 

will work even if there is no external power. 

4. If the emergency water pump fails, pour water from the 

canteen into the hopper. 

G. If the fire is extinguished 

1. Switch the RUN/STOP switch to the STOP position. 

2. Watch the machine for 3 minutes for possible smoke before 

leaving the ignition unit. 

3. Land and perform manual and visual inspection to identify 

and solve the problem. 

Emergency Procedure Emergency Procedure

Fire not Extinguished - PSD Jettison

• Notify the pilot of failure to extinguish fire.

• Request permission from pilot to jettison the PSD.

• Cut the restraining strap between the buckle and aircraft door 

with a seatbelt cutter.

• Grasp the PSD, lift, and jettison clear of the aircraft. Be aware 

that the power cord should separate at the quick disconnect.

H. Fire not Extinguished – PSD Jettison 

1. Notify the pilot of failure to extinguish fire. 

2. Request permission from the pilot to jettison the PSD. 

3. Cut the restraining strap between the buckle and aircraft 

door with a seatbelt cutter. 

4. Grasp the dispenser, lift, and jettison clear of the aircraft. 

Be aware that the power cord should separate at the quick 

disconnect. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 1 of 7 

ITEM DESCRIPTION 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Unit Objectives 

UNIT 6

GROUND QUALIFICATION GROUND QUALIFICATION

Unit Objectives

• Perform bench test on PSD

• Trouble shoot PSD

• Simulate in-flight communications and actions

• Perform emergency procedures on PSD

1. Perform bench test on PSD 

2. Simulate in-flight communications and actions. 

3. Perform emergency procedures on PSD. 

4. Trouble shoot the PSD. 

Instructor Note 

The purpose of the ground qualification is to confirm that 

trainees are safe to operate the Red Dragon in the aircraft. 

Under no circumstances will a trainee be allowed to operate the 

machine in the aircraft before passing the ground qualification. 

A ratio of 5 trainees and 1 Red Dragon PSD per instructor is 

recommended. 

Class Time 1-3 hours outside

Materials, 

Equipment, & 

Handouts 

Materials: 

Equipment: 

Handouts: 

1. Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide (IAIG) 

2. Red Dragon Operations Manual

1. Red Dragon PSD 

2. Red Dragon Spheres 

4. Ethylene glycol 

5. Power source (24-volt converter) 

6. Water 

7. Metal bucket 

3. Tool kit 

8. Spare parts 

9. Chair or seat 

10. Harness(es), tethers, and carabiners 

None 

Instructor Note 

This phase of the training requires the activation of ignited 

spheres that will create several safety hazards to training 

personnel and adjoining property if not properly conducted.
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 2 of 7 

I. Bench Testing 

A. Selection of Bench Testing Site 

1. The training site must be outdoors and clear of buildings, 

vehicles, aircraft, and flammable materials. 

2. Adequate fire extinguishers and water sources must be 

available. 

3. During this session, spheres should not be dropped in the 

water. If moisture is allowed to come in contact with an 

injected live sphere, the sphere may be propelled erratically 

long distances endangering personnel and property. 

4. The wind direction must be considered so that the operator 

and trainees will stay clear of the smoke. 

5. During bench testing operations, designated individuals will 

remove activated spheres from the test area. 

6. The test platform needs to be stable to allow for the proper 

installation of the PSD. (i.e., PSD box, heavy duty picnic 

table, or bench). 

B. Test Procedure 

1. Remove the base adapter and hopper assembly and set 

aside. 

2. Mount the Red Dragon securely on a suitable table or 

bench. 

3. Connect the bench test power cord to the Red Dragon 

dispenser. Connect the other end of the power cord to 

the optional 28VDC power supply or to two 12VDC 

batteries wired in series to produce 24VDC. 

4. Ensure water drain valves is closed. Check / fill the water 

tank. A safety interlock, indicated by a light on the main 

body control panel, will inhibit system operation if the 

water tank is not sufficiently filled with water. 

5. Ensure glycol drain valves is closed. Check / fill the glycol 

tank with undiluted and unused ethylene glycol (antifreeze). 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 3 of 7 

6. Remove the two pump assemblies from the injection head 

by loosening the captive screws in the side panel. Prime 

each pump assembly by squeezing and releasing the 

pump arm until glycol squirts from the injection needle. 

Replace the pump assemblies. 

7. Place an open-top metal container under the injection 

head outlet. 

8. Attach the tethered remote control to the control panel on 

the main body. 

9. Press the main circuit breaker on the front panel to the 

reset position. 

10. Switch the “RUN/STOP” switch on the main control panel 

to “RUN”. 

11. Set the “SPEED” switch on the tethered remote control to 

“1.” 

12. Place two spheres into each of the cavities of the gate 

assembly. 

13. Press and release the “FEED GATE” switch on the 

tethered remote control to the “OPEN” position. 

14. When the second sphere exits the machine, begin timing 

the ignition delay. The injected spheres should ignite 

within 25-30 seconds depending on temperature. Only 

three of the four spheres will ignite as the first sphere is 

not injected 

15. Press the “FEED GATE” switch on the tethered remote 

control to “CLOSE.” 

16. Switch the “RUN/STOP” switch on the main control panel 

to “STOP. 

Instructor Note

At the end of this exercise, the instructor should demonstrate the 

effect of loose potassium permanganate coming in contact with 

glycol and how water is effective in extinguishing the chemical. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 4 of 7 

II. Normal Operation 

The instructor will establish a trainee rotation and test each trainee 

on the correct actions and responses to the firing commands. 

Instructor Note 

The trainees shall wear flight helmet, and flight gloves to 

simulate flight conditions. 

Test each trainee in front of the group. The repetition of hearing 

the commands and seeing the actions will help reinforce them to 

all the trainees.

A. Prepare the PSD. 

1. Remove both glycol pump assemblies from the injection 

head. 

2. Install the hopper assembly and fill with spheres. 

B. Review the firing commands and actions with the trainees. 

C. Test each trainee with the following command / action 

sequence. 

1. Give command “Prepare to Fire” 

a. Trainee sets switch to “RUN” 

b. Trainee replies “Ready to Fire” 

2. Give command “Start Firing Speed 4” 

a. Trainee sets speed to “4” 

b. Trainee presses Feed Gate Open. 

c. Trainee replies “Firing Speed 4” 

3. Give command “Prepare to Stop Firing” 

a. Trainee replies “Ready to Stop” 

4. Give command “Stop Firing” 

a. Trainee pressed Feed Gate Close. 

b. Trainee checks that gate has closed. 

c. Trainee replies “Gates Closed” 

d. Trainee waits for drive motor to stop. 

e. Trainee replies “Machine Cleared” 

5. Give command “Secure Machine” 

a. Trainee sets switch to “STOP” 

b. Trainee replies “Machine Secured” 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 5 of 7 

III. Emergency Procedures 

The instructor will establish a trainee rotation and test each trainee 

on the correct actions for various emergency situations. 

Although there are two types of machine malfunctions that can 

leave a live sphere in the machine and will cause a fire inside the 

machine, the emergency corrective procedure is the same. 

Instructor Note The trainees shall wear flight helmet, and flight gloves to 

simulate flight conditions. 

A. Review the emergency procedures with the trainees 

1. Power Failure 

2. Sphere Jam 

3. Fire in PSD 

4. PSD Jettison 

B. Test each trainee with the following procedure. 

1. Use normal firing commands to get into firing sequence. 

2. Give commands to open and close the feed gates and 

change speeds to keep the operator distracted. 

3. Create malfunctions at random by turning off the power 

supply to simulate power failure or sphere jam. 

4. You must emphasize to the trainees that if the manual 

assist stops turning, the operator must initiate emergency 

procedures to clear the machine. 

Instructor Note 

During this exercise, the instructor should become aware of the 

trainees’ abilities to react to stressful conditions and to operate 

the machine. 

Any trainee who can’t satisfactorily perform shall not be allowed 

to operate the machine in the aircraft.

Instructor Note 

It is very difficult to manipulate the machine so the trainee cannot 

clear the machine using the manual hand wheel. The instructor 

must ask each trainee to demonstrate the correct procedure to 

follow if the manual hand wheel fails to clear the machine. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 6 of 7 

IV. Troubleshooting 

A. No power to the PSD. (“POWER” indicator not illuminated) 

1. Check that the PSD main circuit breaker is not tripped. 

2. Check that the power cord is properly attached to the 

launcher. 

3. Check that the power cord is properly attached to the 

aircraft outlet. 

4. Check that the aircraft circuit breaker is not tripped. 

B. Hopper motor does not start (“RUN/STOP” in “RUN” position) 

1. Check that the PSD has external power. If not see A 

2. Check that the “LOW WATER” indicator is not illuminated. 

3. Check that the hopper is seated correctly on the gate 

assembly. 

4. Remove the hopper and check that the agitator mechanism 

is not jammed. 

C. The drive motor does not start when feed gate is open. 

1. Check that the “RUN/STOP” is in the “RUN” position. 

2. Check the “MOTOR FAULT” indicator to determine if a 

sphere jam has occurred. 

3. Check that the tethered remote control is connected 

properly. 

D. Feed Gates won’t Open 

1. Check that the tethered remote control is connected 

properly. 

2. Remove the hopper and gate assembly and check for 

obstructions in the gate assembly. 

E. The spheres do not flow when the drive is operational. 

1. Check that the feed gate is in the open position. 

2. Check that no jam has occurred in the hopper outlet. 

3. Remove the hopper and gate assembly and check for 

obstructions in the feed gate and injection head. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 3: GROUND QUALIFICATION 

Page 7 of 7 

F. Plastic spheres do not ignite. 

1. Check the glycol level in the tank. 

2. Check that injection needles are not plugged. 

3. Squeeze and release pump arm to check that pump is 

primed. 

G. The water system does not function. 

1. Check the water level in the tank. 

2. Check the water pump by removing the water lines from the 

water nozzles and activating the pump switch. 

3. Check that the water nozzles are not blocked. 

4. Check for frozen lines when working in cold temperatures. 

H. Leakage of glycol. 

1. Check that the glycol drain valve is closed. 

2. Check all glycol lines and fittings for leakage. 

Note: Any spilled glycol must be cleaned up thoroughly. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 4: PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION 

Page 1 of 5 

ITEM DESCRIPTION 

UNIT 4: PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION 

Unit Objectives 

UNIT 7

PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION

Unit Objectives

• Install PSD in Helicopter

• Perform Pre-Flight Checks of PSD

• Participate in Pre-flight Briefing

• Complete PSD Go/No Go Checklist

• Demonstrate Proper In-Flight Operating Procedures

• Post-Flight Debriefing and Documentation

1. Successfully install Red Dragon PSD in the Helicopter 

2. Perform preflight checks on Red Dragon PSD. 

3. Participate in the preflight briefing with pilot, burn boss/ignition 

specialist, helibase manager, and operator; and complete PSD Air 

Operations/Safety Go/No Go Checklist. 

4. Demonstrate proper operating procedures of Red Dragon PSD 

while in flight. 

Class Time 

Suggested time will vary due to class size. We will use the classroom 

and field for this unit. The instructor needs to consider the logistics for 

the field operations: travel time, lunch, water, etc.

Materials, 

Equipment, & 

Handouts 

Materials: 

Equipment: 

Handouts: 

1. Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide (IAIG) 

2. Red Dragon Operations Manual

1. Personal protective equipment 

2. Red Dragon PSD 

3. Helicopter 

4. PSD operator safety harness 

5. Fire shelters 

6. Ethylene glycol 

7. Water 

8. Spheres 

9. Metal bucket Helicopter support kit 

10. Shovel 

12. Pulaski 

13. Tri-max or fire protection group (optional) 

1. PSD Operations Checklist 

I. Preparation of Red Dragon PSD 

The Red Dragon PSD must be readied for installation outside the 

safety circle of the aircraft. 

A. Ensure glycol tank drain is closed. Fill the glycol tank at least 

25 feet from the aircraft. 

B. Ensure water drain tank is closed. Fill the water tank. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 4: PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION 

Page 2 of 5 

II. Preparation of Aircraft 

A. Remove the appropriate door/doors from the aircraft. 

B. Remove all loose cushions and other loose materials. 

C. Use tape or other means to protect aircraft paint finish. 

Consult pilot. 

D. Locate and ensure proper electrical fittings. 

III. Installation 

A. If installing in a Bell 206 series aircraft, install the base adapter 

into the aircraft. 

B. Install Red Dragon in the doorway. 

C. Attach the outlet chute. 

D. Attach belly strap: 

1. Clips on “Y” end attach to PSD frame beside outlet chute. 

2. Pass strap under the fuselage, making sure it clears all 

wiring and accessories attached to the bottom of the 

aircraft. 

3. Return through the opposite door. 

4. Fasten to adjuster buckle on Red Dragon handle. 

5. Cinch tight and secure loose ends. 

E. Attach remote control to connection on front panel of PSD. 

F. Connect power supply cord to aircraft power supply. 

G. Connect power supply cord to PSD and secure breakaway 

connection with velcro straps. 

H. Reset the main circuit breaker and check that the POWER 

indicator on the main control panel illuminates. If the breaker 

trips immediately, check wiring polarity. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 4: PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION 

Page 3 of 5 

IV. Preflight Briefing 

A. The pilot, ignition specialist, and PSD operator must be present 

at the pre-mission aircraft briefing 

B. This briefing should address: 

1. Safety / Aerial Hazards 

2. Weight and Balance 

3. In-flight Commands 

4. Emergency Procedures 

5. Frequency Management 

6. Available Flight Time 

7. Aircrew Responsibilities 

8. PSD Go / No Go checklist. 

C. The pilot and/or mechanic must inspect and approve of the 

PSD installation. 

Instructor Note Pass out the PSD Operations Checklist and review. 

Instructor Note Specific crash procedures and crash seating positions must be 

discussed in the preflight briefing for aircraft being used 

V. Preflight Check 

A. Reset main circuit breaker. 

1. Check POWER indicator on main control panel illuminated. 

2. Check PWR indicator on remote control illuminated. 

3. Check LOW WATER indicator on main control panel not 

illuminated. 

B. Switch RUN/STOP to RUN position. 

1. Check hopper agitator motor starts 

2. Check indicator above RUN/STOP switch illuminates 

3. Check RUN indicator on remote control illuminates. 

C. Press FEED GATE switch to OPEN position. 

1. Check feed gate opens. 

2. Check injection drive motor starts 

3. Check RUN indicator on remote control flashes. 

4. Check LED display on main control panel is counting 

spheres. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 4: PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION 

Page 4 of 5 

D. Adjust the SPEED control from 1 to 7 

1. Check injection drive motor speed changes. 

E. Press FEED GATE switch CLOSE position. 

1. Check feed gates close immediately. 

2. Check injection drive motor purges machine and stops. 

3. Check RUN indicator on remote control stops flashing. 

4. Check LED display on main control panel stops counting 

spheres. 

F. Press the COUNT switch to the RESET position and hold for 

two seconds. 

1. Check that sphere count resets to zero. 

2. Switch RUN/STOP to STOP position. 

3. Check hopper agitator motor stops 

4. Check indicator above RUN/STOP switch extinguishes. 

5. Check RUN indicator on remote control extinguishes. 

G. Remove the hopper. Remove the Gate Assembly. Press and 

hold the “WATER” switch on the main control panel. 

1. Check that pump injects water into both chambers. 

2. Check that indicator on main control panel illuminates. 

H. Check that a one gallon container of water is available. 

I. Check that a sharp knife is within reach of the PSD operator. 

J. Check that PSD harness is secure and attached to helicopter 

hard points and seatbelt is on and buckled. 

K. Check that additional spheres carried within the aircraft are 

properly secured. 

L. Check one fire shelter per occupant of the aircraft. 

M. Check the intercom and air-to-ground communications.
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

UNIT 4: PSD FLIGHT QUALIFICATION 

Page 5 of 5 

VI. In-Flight Operations 

A. Dry run over the burn area procedures 

B. Check that the burn area is clear of personnel. 

C. Identify burn area boundaries. 

D. Ensure communication with ground personnel. 

E. Make practice run of the first firing sequence. 

F. Coordinate machine speed and sphere spacing to be used on 

the first run with burn boss/ignition specialist. 

G. Identify helispots and emergency landing areas. 

H. Notify ground personnel that ignition will commence. 

VII. Ignition Operation 

A. The burn boss/Ignition specialist gives the directions as to 

where he/she wants the spheres to be placed in the burn area. 

This should be made clear during the dry run before any firing 

begins. It is important that all parties (burn boss/ignition 

specialist, pilot, and PSD operator) understand where the firing 

is to be done. This includes the starting points, ending points, 

and desired placement and spacing. 

B. The maximum recommended speed should be 50 mph. Slow 

aircraft speed to planned application speed when the firing 

operation is in progress. Optimum speed is 25 to 35 mph. 

C. The firing boss gives direction to the pilot once the firing run 

has begun and during the dry run to ensure correct placement 

of the injected spheres. 

D. Recommended flight operations are between 300’ AGL and 

500‘AGL. Some firing operations may be above 500’ AGL, but 

never below 300’ AGL. 

E. Occupants of the helicopter shall be limited to the pilot, PSD 

operator, and burn boss/ignition specialist or instructor if 

essential to the mission. 

F. When the helicopter with the PSD leaves the burn area 

(crosses a fire control line) the RUN/STOP switch must be in 

the STOP position. 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

Red Dragon PSD Operator Test 

Page 1 of 2 

1. Approximately how many spheres does the hopper hold? 

a. 250 

b. 450 

c. 950 

2. What is the operational weight of the Red Dragon PSD with full fluids and hopper full? 

a. 50 lb 

b. 70 lb 

c. 100 lb 

3. The emergency water pump will operate even when there is no external power source? 

a. true 

b. false 

4. The hopper motor and drive motor will operate when there is no water in the water tank? 

a. true 

b. false 

5. How many speeds does the Red Dragon PSD have? 

_____ 

6. What type of anti-freeze mixture is normally used? 

a. 90 - 100% Propylene Glycol 

b. 90 - 100% Ethylene Glycol 

c. 50 - 60% Ethylene Glycol 

7. Fill in the appropriate commands C and responses R. 

Firing Boss Commands PSD Operator Responses 

“Prepare to Fire” ____________________ 

“Start Firing Speed X” ____________________ 

“Prepare to Stop Firing” ____________________ 

“Stop Firing” _ ___________________ and _ ______________

“Secure Machine” ____________________ 
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

Red Dragon PSD Operator Test 

Page 2 of 2 

8. After the feed gates close, how many purge revolutions does the handwheel turn ? 

a. one 

b. two 

c. three 

d. four 

9. The glycol pumps require calibration during the bench test? 

a. true 

b. false 

10. What are the first three actions to be taken if a power failure occurs? 

a. _______________________________________ 

 b. _______________________________________ 

c. _ ______________________________________

11. What are the first two actions to be taken if a fire occurs in the machine? 

a. _______________________________________ 

b. _______________________________________ 

12. What type of lubricant is used on the injection head components? 

______________
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

Red Dragon PSD Operator Test Answer Key 

Page 1 of 2 

1. Approximately how many spheres does the hopper hold? 

a. 250 

b. 450 

c. 950 

2. What is the operational weight of the Red Dragon PSD with full fluids and hopper full? 

a. 50 lb 

b. 70 lb 

c. 100 lb 

3. The emergency water pump will operate even when there is no external power source? 

a. true 

b. false 

4. The hopper motor and drive motor will operate when there is no water in the water tank? 

a. true 

b. false 

5. How many speeds does the Red Dragon PSD have? 

 7 . 

6. What type of anti-freeze mixture is normally used? 

a. 90 - 100% Propylene Glycol 

b. 90 - 100% Ethylene Glycol 

c. 50 - 60% Ethylene Glycol 

7. Fill in the appropriate commands C and responses R. 

Firing Boss Commands PSD Operator Responses 

“Prepare to Fire” Ready to Fire .

“Start Firing Speed X” Firing Speed X .

“Prepare to Stop Firing” Ready to Stop Firing . 

“Stop Firing” Gates Close . and Machine Cleared .

“Secure Machine” Machine Secured .
Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide 

Red Dragon PSD Cross Training (12-01-07) 

Red Dragon PSD Operator Test Answer Key 

Page 2 of 2 

8. After the feed gates close, how many purge revolutions does the handwheel turn ? 

a. one 

b. two 

c. three 

d. four 

9. The glycol pumps require calibration during the bench test? 

a. true 

b. false 

10. What are the first three actions to be taken if a power failure occurs? 

a. Notify the pilot .

b. Close the feed gate manually. .

c. Clear the machine with the manual hand wheel .

11. What are the first two actions to be taken if a fire occurs in the machine? 

a. Notify the pilot .

b. Press the emergency water switch .

12. What type of lubricant is used on the injection head components? 

None .