Longline tree trimming

[rotorfan]

I've never seen this here, though very possible I missed it. My VN Huey friend sent it to me.

Luray Aerial Saw Trimming - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=HE0HEtHFemQ)

Looks to me to be frought with risk, even for utility heli ops. Perhaps some of you have done this work.

Questions:

1) I see that the saws aren't running when the rig is initially lifted. How does the pilot control the saw powerplant?

2) If the saw rig gets caught, do you immediately pickle, or first give a bit of slack to the cables first, or just gently try to work it free?

3) Is there a stabilization system for the saw? I couldn't tell how the saw blades stay aligned with the heli course.

[Hi-Viz]

There is an interesting video of an Austrian (Wucher) SA315B Lama engaged in underslung tree-cutting (www.wucher-helicopter.at). I'm sorry that I can't create a direct link.
Hi-Vis

[Mechta]

I'm beginning to wonder how many other things they've had in James Bond films aren't as far-fetched as they first appear!

Powerwise, I thought that long pipe from which the saw rail is hanging might be a tube for compressed air, however looking at the company's website, they say it uses a 'compact fuel injected engine'; presumably in that lump at the top of the rail.

Aerial Side-Trimmer Saw - Haverfield (http://www.haverfield.com/innovated-services/aerial-saw/)


The engine could have an electric start and, like almost every petrol chainsaw, a centrifugal clutch, so, start, throttle and stop would be the only controls needed. As its fuel injected, no choke would be required. If it is a two stroke, it wouldn't mind which way up it is, so could be started before taking off.

[BCHH]

The pilot looks like Kevin Spacey!

[nomorehelosforme]

The pilot must be very brave operating that piece of kit, wouldn't want to think what would happen if one of those blades snagged on a branch!

[Trans Lift]

I havent done it but they had a couple of saw crews at the powerline company I used to work at. I have seen the saws up close. Its all controlled by the pilot and switches on the collective. The tubes are relatively rigid but you can also change the angle of the saw in the cockpit.

[601]

Couple Australian operators
Tree Trimming - Dwyer Aviation Services (http://dwyeraviation.com.au/services/tree-trimming/)
Helicopters at their best ? aviationadvertiser.com.au (http://www.aviationadvertiser.com.au/news/2011/01/helicopters-at-their-best/)
It appears the second operator is no longer.