Ch 5 - Cargo Loading And Limitations Flashcards
Cargo Loading Methods
- Unit loading Devices (ULD)
- Containers
- Pallets - Loose load (individual bits of cargo restrained by nets)
ULDs
- Containers
- Pallets
(Number of standard sizes for both of them so they are compatible across different aircrafts)
Carried:
- Lower Decks (pax flights)
- Main and lower decks (cargo)
Pallets
Sheets of aluminium with rims (for nets and straps to be secured to) to secure pallets to the floor
Usually transported on roller floors within tracks:
- Roller Balls (entry)
- Motorised
Securing Load
Locked in tracks with latches
Or tie down points - secured over the manoeuvring envelope of the aircraft
Bulk Cargo
- Loaded individually
- Secured using nets and floor mounted barriers
Mass Limitations
Limited by:
- Max. Structural mass of aircraft
- Max. area load of cargo floor
- Max. Load linearly by a given length of cargo hold floor
Maximum Mass
- Given in aircraft flight manual
- Operations manual if more limiting
Limits may also be printed on compartment wall
Along with dimensions of cargo zone
Area Load Limit
Max load that can be placed in a given area of a compartment floor
Contact with the floor will alter this significantly
Cargo may be within 1 load limit in one orientation
Always given in LxWxH
- Always go for minimising Load intensity on the floor
Area Load = Mass / Area (normally largest side)
Load Limit Aids
Load Spreaders
Pallets
Break load down (smaller pieces)
Linear Load Limit
Mass of Item / Longest Dimension
Governed by number + spacing of supporting frames and the distance from the structural bulk heads
Long item placed lengthwise will be in contact with more supporting frames
- Can’t change orientation of ULDs
- Individual items can be maximised
Maximum Allowable Cargo Mass
Lowest of:
- Total mass in a section / cargo compartment
- Area Load
- Linear Load
Load Spreaders
Spread the weight across more frames, increasing the area load and support
