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Seaplane Skiplane Flying Menu > Skiplane
Operations >Construction and Maintenance
Helicopter floats are constructed of a rubberized
fabric, or nylon coated with neoprene or urethane, and may be
of the fixed utility or emergency pop-out type. Fixed utility
floats typically consist of two floats that may have one or
more individual compartments inflated with air. Fixed floats
may be of the skid-onfloat or the float-on-skid design. [Figure
9-2]
Figure 9-2. Skid-on-float
and float-on-skid landing gear.
A skid-on-float landing gear has no rigid structure
in or around the float. The float rests on the hard surface
and supports the weight of the helicopter. With this type of
design, be aware of differences in float pressure. While the
pressures are usually low, a substantial difference can cause
the helicopter to lean while on a hard surface making it more
susceptible to dynamic rollover.
A float-on-skid landing gear has modified skids
that support the weight of the helicopter on hard surfaces.
The floats are attached to the top of the skid and only support
the weight of the helicopter in water. A float with low pressure
or one that is completely deflated will not cause any stability
problems on a hard surface.
Emergency pop-out floats consist of two or
more floats with one or more individual compartments per float,
depending on the size of the helicopter. [Figure They are often
inflated with compressed nitrogen
Figure 9-3. Pop-out
float equipped helicopter.
or helium and are deployed prior to an emergency
landing on water. The aircraft’s maintenance manual states
that the pop-out floats must be tested periodically through
a deployment check, a leak check, and a hydrostatic check of
the compressed gas cylinder.
To maintain the floats in good condition, perform
the following tasks before and after every flight:
• Inflation—Check each float compartment
for proper inflation. Record the pressure to obtain a trend
over time to help recognize leaks.
• Condition—Inspect the entire
float assembly for cuts, tears, condition of chafing strips,
and security of all components.
• Clean—Wash oil, grease, or gasoline
from the floats, since they deteriorate the float’s material.
• Flush—If the helicopter has been
operated on salt water, flush the entire helicopter, including
the float assembly, with plenty of fresh water.
• Storage—Avoid placing the floats
in direct sunlight when not in use.
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