Accession Number:

ADA327372

Title:

S-3A Ballast Block Final Design and Engineering Tests.

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.,

Corporate Author:

NAVAL AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER WARMINSTER PA AIRCRAFT AND CREW SYSTEMS TECHNOLO GY DIRECTORATE

Personal Author(s):

• Lorch, Dan
• Quartuccio, John

Report Date:

1984-02-22

Pagination or Media Count:

58.0

Abstract:

The third prototype S-3A Ballast Block weighs 169 pounds 77 Kg. It is an assembly of four interlocking aluminum blocks. One crewman can carry two blocks at a time into the aircraft where he can quickly assemble the unit either on the 1E-1 ejection seat or on the avionics aisleway step Restraint on the ejection seat is obtained by connecting the four quick disconnect adjuster fittings on the ejection seat to fittings on the Ballast Block. When the Assembly is placed on the avionics aisle steps it is restrained with two aluminum locking plates which are bolted to the top block. These plates extend beyond the edges of the block and fit into keyways on either side of the main bulkhead forgings directly behind the aft ejection seats. When the Block is secured on the 1E1-1 seat the overall center of gravity falls 0.72 inches below the centerline of rocket thrust. The Ballast Block meets all operational and structural requirements for safe function in the aircraft. It can be maintained at the Operational level the only parts that may need replacement are straps which are readily available. The S-3A Ballast Block provides a simple and cost effective replacement for anthropomorphic dummies presently being used to ballast unoccupied 1E1 ejection seats.

Descriptors:

• *EJECTION SEATS
• *BALLAST
• FUNCTIONS
• REQUIREMENTS
• CENTER OF GRAVITY
• COST EFFECTIVENESS
• FORGING
• REPLACEMENT
• RESTRAINT
• PARTS
• AVIATION SAFETY
• ANTISUBMARINE AIRCRAFT
• FITTINGS

Subject Categories:

• Aircraft

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE