Vintage Rocket Fuel Handler's Coverall Outfit (RFHCO) Serial # 538
Vintage Rocket Fuel Handler's Coverall Outfit (RFHCO) Serial # 538
This is a Rocket Fuel Handler's Coverall Outfit (RFHCO), known as a "refco" suit . Air Force Propellant Transfer System technicians wore suits like this in the 1960s-1980s. This suit is dated 1984. The vapor-proof rubber suit was fire-resistant and completely enclosed the body when worn with a helmet, gloves, and boots. The patches were repairs to keep the suit airtight. The helmet (not included) contained a voice-operated two-way radio system with earphones and a microphone. The RFHCO had also enclosed an oxygen-nitrogen breathing unit ( not included ) giving the wearer just under two hours' time in the suit. The suit had small ventilation ducts in the arms, legs, back, and neck to keep the wearer comfortable and to distribute oxygen. Technicians spent about a year learning how to operate the RFHCO suit and other equipment. After working with fuel or oxidizer, they showered in the suits to wash off any residual propellants, then carefully removed, cleaned, and stored their suits.
See full video below from the Air Force Space and Missile Museum Foundation detailing a fuel transfer to Titan II
Suit is in good playable condition—well worn with patches throughout. The zipper would need conditioning but has snaps that help keep it closed . Shown on a 6’ tall manikin for reference sized Medium Regular