Hi Rotorheads,
I am trying to find some information on the stability of helicopters when they have ditched. Specifically, at what angle the aircraft is likely to capsize. I know this will vary with load and wind loading on the side but there must be a minimum and maximum angle for each type.
Why am I wanting this info? Having spoken to a senior marine forecaster who knows about waves, I believe it could be possible to determine the steepness of waves in an operating area when sea states are high and thus produce a form of ‘steepness index’. The combination of this ‘steepness index’ and the stability performance of the helicopter, would provide a better data set for offshore pilots to base their decisions on. At the moment there is a tendency to fixate on the wave height alone, whether that be ‘significant wave height’ or ‘maximum wave height’.
Also, does anyone have any info on where the manufacturers do their environmental tank testing of floatation systems? As I understand it at the moment, a scale model of the type being tested is placed in the tank and subjected to simulated waves up to the equivalent of 4m. The results are the extrapolated to give the ‘demonstrated’ limit of the floatation system.
So any information/help would be greatly appreciated. PM if you wish.
bondu
