Hi again, HeliTester could you please clear this doubt.
There is some doubt on use of power during validation of ceiling climb of a helicopter. Some information gathered from various manuals is given below, followed by the doubt
ETPS Flight Test Manual - Ceiling Climb Chapter, Para 4.2
Power: Tests are flown using the maximum power rating for a sustained climb;this is usually the "one hour power" or Maximum Continuous rating. It may be necessary to check the climb
performance at other specified power ratings, for example, single engine maximum and continuous ratings
Rather longish questin/doubt.
USNTPS Flight Test Manual Part 2 para 8.4.3
Another method of obtaining climb performance............The climb s flown until stop climb criteria is met.........These climbs can be flown in support of climb correction factor data requirements
or the parameter correction factor requirements(Kp or Kw). During Kw collection climbs, the power is maintained at MRP (Military Rated Power), throughout the climb. During Kp climbs the power
is maintained at the torque setting specified for the climb....
HELICOPTER DESIGN HANDBOOK Part 3 AD-785 000
Same as above in USNTPS Manual
HELICOPTER DESIGN HANDBOOOK PART 1 AD/A-002 007
Para 3.4.6.3. Service ceiling is defined as the maximum altitude at which the aircraft exhibits a 100 fpm rate of climb capability at a given temperature while combat ceiling requires a climb capability of 500 fpm. These ceilings normally defined are at best climb speed, using normal or intermediate engine power ratings
FAR 29
(a) The steady reate of climb must be determined --
(1) With maximum continuous power;
(2) With the landing gear retracted;and
(3) At Vy for standard sea level conditions and at speeds selected by the applicant for other condititions.
From the above definitions it is not very clear whether ceiling climb MUST BE done at maximum continuous power ONLY.
Now if a manufacturer makes a claim that service ceiling is y metres, however you need to use 30 minutes rating to climb from x metres to y meters (climb time from x metres to y metres is well below 30 mts), should one accept service ceiling as y metres .... or x metres?