UH-1N Category II Desert Tests.
Abstract
The UH-1N was evaluated for operational use in a hot desert environment. Tests were conducted during August 1971 at El Centro Naval Air Facility (NAF), California, to determine the effects of exposure to a sand and dust environment, high ambient air temperatures, and extreme solar radiation. The UH-1N and its subsystems were generally satisfactory for operation in the hot desert environment. Main rotor hub grip reservoir seals were unsatisfactory for use during operations into areas of heavy sand concentrations. The engines operated satisfactorily under the conditions tested, and no gross changes from operation in a normal environment were observed. The oil coolers were satisfactory through the range of ambient air temperatures tested. Operation of the UHF-AM and VHF-AM radios was unsatisfactory without improved cooling. The homing function of the VHF-FM radio was not adequate. The XM-94 armament system appeared suitable for use in the hot desert. The best technique for takeoffs from sandy areas was a rapid vertical ascent to an altitude above the sand cloud. Approach to high hover and a slow descent to a touchdown was the most satisfactory procedure for landing in an untested and unknown sandy area. Rescue hoist operations were generally satisfactory in the hog desert environment. When hovering below 40 feet over sandy areas, blowing sand interfered with safe, effective performance of the hoist operator. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0893677
Entities
People
- Gary L. Nelsen
- James A. Ford
Organizations
- Air Force Test Center