In-Flight Emergencies

Objective:

To demonstrate the various ways of controlling the balloon during fuel and related emergencies.

Review of Fuel and Burner System

Note:  Fire Extinguisher and Gloves are a must

The fuel and burner system for this balloon are two separate systems with only the Can & Coils shared.  Each system works independently of each other

Tanks - Bleeder valve, Tank valve, check valve in Tank valve connection, Gauge (magnet in gauge)

Hoses - Hose running to burner, Check valve

              Liquid vs. vapor pilot light

Burner and functions of burner

Pilot light – piezzo igniter

Main valves

Blast explain path of propane

Whisper valves explain path of propane

Potential Problems:

Leaks

·       Fuel leak in main tank valve - Normally this will leak around the value steam.  By turning it all the way off or all the way on it will seal.

• Fuel leak in hose - Turn it off at main tank valve
• Fuel leak in blast valve - Turn off at main tank valve

·       Fuel leak at pilot light - Turn off at main tank valve or turn off pilot and use other burner to ignite burner

• Fuel leak at pilot light - shut off at tank

Malfunctions

• Pilot light regulator malfunction - Turn off at main tank

·       Fly on backup system (whispers)

• Blast stuck open - Use main tank value to control
• Blast valve stuck closed - Fly off other burner

Instructor Demonstrates – Student Action

1.     Relights

1. 1. Piezzo, then striker in pilot/burner
   2. Aux striker for pilot
   3. Aux striker for whisper
   4. Aux striker for main burner

2. Fire in the air – extinguisher
3. Fire on ground – Get away

Others:

• Fuel exhaustion - Fly off other tank, land when safe

·       Water in fuel - Fuel system icing.

Outcome

Student should be able to handle these emergencies.  These procedures should be practiced periodically to maintain and automated response.