AMC1 31TGB.14 Mass limits

• ED Decision 2013/011/R found in: CS-31TGB Initial issue - Tethered Gas Balloons (Jul 2013)

AMC1 31TGB.14 Mass limits ED Decision 2013/011/R Maximum mass The maximum mass results in a weight force that is equal or lower to the maximum static lift force. The lift-producing medium is not part of the maximum mass. For each structural loading case the maximum mass is established. The maximum mass consists of the balloon and the length of the tether cable, which weight force acts upon the balloon in the specific load case. The maximum design mass of the product is the least of the maximum masses established for the load cases or a lower maximum mass if so selected by the applicant. Minimum mass The minimum mass is the mass that results in the highest loading in the tether system under the following conditions for which compliance to the structural requirements is shown: - Maximum deceleration during ascent - Maximum static lift - Maximal permissible wind speed of operation Since the mass increases with the extension of the tether cable, the critical case for the minimum mass is reached at the beginning of the ascent. Mass limitations and information, e.g. pay load are established from the maximum and minimum masses and provided in the Flight Manual.