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Application Note: Platform Weighing of Rotary Wing Aircraft- CH-47 Chinook

August 30, 2018

As one of the most recognizable helicopters in the world, the Chinook has been in US military service since 1962. With almost 700 -D and -F models in US Army and Guard units, US Army Weighing Procedures call for aircraft to be weighed with one scale per wheel. It can be difficult to manually read and record weight values from six scales and transferring them into AWBS software is time consuming, leads to potential errors, and can even create a need for additional weighings.

“Units can now weigh a Chinook in a fraction of the time versus older, manual methods. Low-profile scales with wireless communication direct to AWBS software save manpower and minimize record keeping” -Ron Peterson, CW5 (RET)

Army Aviation units use Lockheed Martin’s™ AWBS software system to calculate and document weighing results. Intercomp’s wireless RFX™ technology communicates through an encrypted WiFi converter to any Windows™ based device running the AWBS software for the weighing process. By acquiring the weights directly into the software and populating the proper weight and balance forms, errors are reduced by minimizing manual inputs. Users verify weighing results immediately while the scales are deployed, eliminating unscheduled weighings which can occur after manual data entry and review.

Using AC15-LP™ low-profile aircraft scales, the process of deploying ramps, scales, and overrun spacers takes a matter of minutes. The low scale height enables tugs to push the helicopter up the ramps with less effort, and using overrun spacers simplifies the weighing process even further. Pushing the aircraft off the scales between weighings and back while maintaining level is rapid and easy.

Everything needed to conduct weighing operations is packaged in a portable kit. Intercomp platform scales are the only drive-on scales approved for use and funded by the US Army PM AGSE for all Army airframes.

Combining the performance of the AC15-LP™ with seamless communication with AWBS software results in accurate and repeatable weighings while minimizing potential for errors during aircraft weighing operations.

 
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