Hi all
here is some basic info on what to do with an Aircraft incident involved with Ballistic Parachute Recovery Systems (BRS) installed!!
What is a BRS ?
A BRS is a rocket deployable emergency parachute system installed inside or on the fuselage of a light aircraft which is designed to be operated by the pilot in the event of an engine failure or loss of control.
There has been a proliferation of ballistic parachute devices in general aviation aircraft, RFFS who respond to aircraft accidents are increasingly likely to encounter unfired ballistic parachute systems that could discharge during rescue and recover operations.
Typically these devices are stored in a compartment in the aft fuselage to deploy a 55-pound parachute that allows the airplane to descend in a level attitude at about 26 feet per second. To activate the system, a pilot pulls an overhead handle in the cockpit (after removing a metal pin that secures the handle in a stowed position).
The aluminum rocket, which weighs 1 pound 6 ounces, contains 1 pound of propellant, fires for 1.2 seconds, and accelerates to over 100 miles per hour in the first tenth of a second. It produces peak thrust of about 300 pounds. Under normal conditions, the system is well secured and is not prone to accidental firing. The rocket will only fire if the activation handle in the cockpit is pulled with sufficient force. However, the system can be less predictable if an airplane has been in an accident.
Should the sections of an airplane be broken apart, the activating housing (a shaft that houses the cable that links the firing handle to the parachute) may become stretched tight. If the parts separate enough, the unit could be detonated even with the blast handle still secured by its safety pin.
Using rescue tools to extricate airplane occupants could also cause the rocket to fire. The activation cable (between the handle in the cockpit and a firing mechanism that ignites the rocket) need only be pulled forward slightly (aircraft dependant), with a force of about 35 pounds to activate the rocket. By comparison, hydraulic rescue tools are capable of applying as much as 18,000 pounds of force per square inch to cut or spread aircraft structures. In addition, crimping or snagging the activation cable could move it far enough forward to activate the rocket.
The RFFS will require training (familiarisation sessions) regarding disabling ballistic parachute units. The RFFS training should include identification and location of the activation handle, the rocket motor, and the housing protecting the cable that stretches from the handle to the rocket activation tube, noting that these components may have shifted during the accident sequence and may not be in their original locations. The RFFS should cut the activation cable where it attaches to the launch tube, while avoiding the departure end of the rocket, to prevent the rocket’s firing mechanism from being activated.
RFFS who move or cut airplane wreckage without determining the existence of a ballistic parachute system or who disregard the positioning of the rocket motor as they work with the wreckage risk death or serious injury. It is vital for the RFFS safety, that they be able to quickly identify aircraft with these systems installed and take action to ensure that the systems are not accidentally deployed. Training that specifically addresses the hazards of ballistic parachute systems, as well as effective warning labels and markings, would greatly aid the RFFS in the safe completion of any emergency situation.
In the event of a fire situation the rocket will not normally be activated but will burn without an explosive reaction.
Deactivation Sequence:-
1. Determine if a BRS is fitted. ( look for placard on fuselage, or parachute container )
2. Examine launch tube. Has the rocket fired?
If the rocket is live under no circumstances should rescue personnel place any part of their person in front of the launch tube. A 90 degree 30m area should be cleared in front of the rocket motor.
3. Insert a 3/16 inch pin into the handle holder located in the cockpit.
4. Locate rocket motor and parachute box (panels may have to be removed on some aircraft types)
5. Using Felco brand cutter cut cable near the igniter. Do Not Twist Cable.
6. Due to this item being a pyrotechnic hazard no attempt should be made to remove the rocket motor. Considerations should be made to isolate the aircraft by way of cordon prior to seeking advice from manufacturer
I hope this helps with your project
Keep living the Dream
Dave M
