Airbus RAT
 

Let's say your FCM doesn't have a speed limit for the RAT if you actually have to use it.

If you do a test flight, suddenly a speed limit of 230 kts has to be observed.

Does this make any sense?

If you're using it in anger you don't really care if it can be used again later. If you're just doing a test flight you'd rather not overstress the thing so that it has to be replaced.

How big is the RAT for the A380? Perhaps it's big enough to be called a KANGA-roo!

Where is it situated and what capacity of electrics and hydraulics?

Presumably it deploys automatically.

MILT/.....rat/kangaroo.:D ..good comparison mate...Ive always thought of aussies as Rats....good job wally.it,s amazing how great mindS think alike.:} ..PB

1M diameter rotor ~75KVA output. Electric Power only. They put it on top of the big bus.

Wallaby sized ? - or maybe wallaroo ?

Cheers !

just kidding on the location. :)

KANGA is for - Key Automatic Nurturing Gubbinry for Avionics -

which may be on top of the Bus but powering the Essential Buss

If you're referring to the recent AD, the limit applies to RAT deployment during Flight Tests only. The way it was explained to me was that some regulatory agencies require periodic RAT verification flights. Airbus found that this type of repeated testing above 230 kts (I thought it was 250) led to fatigue cracks and subsequent blade failure. If it's a real emer deployment then you are free to disregard the speed limit completely.

if there was a RAT on my aircraft i'd have to set a trap...why would you airline guys want RATS on your plane, especially 1M diameter one :confused: :\ :} :} :\

Well, as an back-up emergency power generator, of course!!! := Just trap it in barrel-cage and bring on-line. Larger rats required for 380 to supply jacuzzi heating. What is beyond me, why do they put it on the roof? Let's face it, somebody needs to feed the beast! :{

Re-read "vapilot2004" 's post - he was KIDDING about the location of the RAT - it's not on top, it's actually under the pilot's seat to keep him awake! :eek:

Seriously tho', it's just inboard of #2 donk, in a canoe on the trailing edge of the wing. In case of lost power, it's gotta deploy by gravity, and that means DOWN. Check out the IPC - oh, that's right, it's not published yet.

Employment has it's perks...

Cheers, y'all.