What Purpose Do Emergency Flotation Systems Serve?
Can aircraft survive a water crash landing without sinking or capsizing? With the help of modern technology and emergency flotation systems (EFS), certain aircraft like military and large commercial helicopters can stay afloat. Reserved for deployment during controlled ditching or upon a water impact, EFS are designed to minimize the chance of losing an aircraft to water damage so that the vehicle can be saved or salvaged.
Capable of rapidly expanding, EFS are stored in reserved spaces within an aircraft's airframe or externally mounted as packs along the skids of the vehicle. However, to instigate swift inflation, pressurized cylinders of gas must always be stored onboard, and be readily available when necessary. Typically blended with various gasses depending on the desired inflation rate of certain floats, helium is always introduced during inflation in part for its added buoyancy and swift execution of part inflation. Furthermore, helium features a density value that is seven times less than air, making it the optimal choice when a situation calls for the immediate activation of an EFS.
Although manufactured to limit the exposure of parts of aircraft that can be further damaged by water, helicopter emergency flotation systems also serve the critical role of allowing passengers time to egress after an emergency landing. Improving an individual's survivability against drowning in the unlikely event of a water impact, EFS have been estimated to prevent 50% of fatalities when compared to aircraft devoid of adequate emergency flotation equipment.
The only difficulty EFS devices face upon activation are caused by the aircraft itself. As the location of the rotors, transmission, and engine have a relatively high center of gravity, EFS are prone to instability if faced with anything other than calm water surfaces. When exposed to turbulent weather phenomena, EFS may have difficulty supporting a helicopter, increasing the likelihood of the vehicle tipping over. Though, with the inclusion of additional floats, the aircraft has an improved chance of remaining on its side, as compared to capsizing or becoming fully submerged.
If you are on the search for a particular EFS, do not settle for any other part that is less than perfect. At ASAP Aviation Stock, we make it our job to ensure you receive the exact parts you need, when you need them. Therefore, we invite you to browse our inventory for numerous aviation components ready for application. Whether you require a specific helicopter flotation system based on your vehicle’s size, or helicopter skid tubes, portable pressurized gasses, and more, ASAP Aviation Stock is here to streamline and expedite any one of your orders for immediate procurement. Due to our quality control and export compliance, we operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B certification and accreditation, alongside our NO CHINA sourcing pledge. If you would like to request a quote for your comparisons, you can submit an RFQ form as provided on our website. Upon receipt, a dedicated account manager will quickly review and respond with a personalized solution to your needs in just 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365.
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