A cycling heat indicator lamp gives assurance of temperature maintenance of the methane reactor at its preset operating temperature. Should the indicator lamp be suspect, front panel test jacks permit monitoring with a VOM for further verification of heat status. All electrical controls are also located on the generator front panel, including the power switch to the compressor, even though the compressor is located in a separate unit. Electrical connection between the two units is made through a twist-lock umbilical which can also be connected to any AC outlet without special adapters. The lower unit houses the compressor, mounted on a special vibration-isolation support.
High volume cooling fans sustain a compatible internal temperature for optimum operation.
Air enters through a strategically placed opening in the top of the unit, passes through a baffle system to eliminate sound from the unit, across the compressor and out through several openings located on the rear floor of the unit. Should there be a failure of the air circulating fans, an automatic thermal switch cuts off electrical power to the compressor, avoiding overheating and possible damage. The complete interior of the unit is covered with high density sound absorptive insulating material, including the baffle system. The high temperature connecting air hose which runs between the two units is of sufficient length to permit either configuration. This purification unit is mounted immediately above the compressor unit, for all systems other than the 737 R-1 pure air generator.