Helicopter lifts are a vital component in various industries such as construction, transportation, mining, commercial and emergency services. The equipment used in a helicopter lift plays a crucial role in determining the success of the operation. In this article, we will discuss the essential equipment used in a helicopter lift.
- Helicopter: The most significant equipment used in a helicopter lift is the helicopter itself. The helicopter must be equipped with powerful engines, a reliable transmission system, and a large enough cabin to accommodate the load. A helicopter with a high lift capacity, stability, and maneuverability is essential for a successful lift operation.
- Load hook: Helicopter lift load hooks are crucial components that enable helicopters to carry and transport heavy loads. These hooks are typically attached to the underside of the helicopter, and they come in various sizes and weight capacities depending on the helicopter’s specifications and the types of loads to be transported. The hooks are designed to securely latch onto the load, allowing the helicopter to lift it off the ground and transport it to a designated location. Helicopter lift load hooks must be robust and durable enough to withstand the stresses of flight and the weight of the load, and they must also be easy to attach and detach. Safety is of utmost importance when using helicopter lift load hooks, and they are subject to rigorous testing and certification standards to ensure their reliability and performance. The cargo/load hook after being connected to the rigging points and long-line, use a remote cargo hook for precise placement of the load.
- Slings: Slings are used to secure the load to the load hook. They are typically made of high-strength synthetic materials and are designed to distribute the weight of the load evenly. These slings/lines are made of strong, durable materials such as nylon, polyester, or Kevlar, and are designed to attach securely to the helicopter’s cargo hook. Helicopter lift slings come in various sizes and configurations, depending on the type and weight of the load being transported. Some slings are equipped with multiple attachment points to distribute the load evenly, while others are designed for single-point lifting. The slings must be properly attached to the load and the load hook to ensure the safety of the lift. A long-line is a cable attached to the helicopter, used to suspend the load beneath the helicopter during the lift.
- Winch: A winch is used to raise and lower the load during the lift. It is typically powered by a hydraulic motor and is controlled by the helicopter’s pilot or a trained specialist who works closely with the helicopter pilot to ensure that the load is lifted safely and securely. The winch must be capable of holding the weight of the load and lifting it to the desired height. These winches use a combination of cable and pulleys to lift heavy loads, including people, animals, and equipment, into and out of difficult-to-reach locations. In addition to search and rescue operations, helicopter lift winches are also used in a variety of other settings, including construction, commercial installation, logging, and military operations.
- Radio communication equipment: Radio communication equipment is essential for coordinating the lift between the helicopter pilot and ground crew. The pilot must be able to communicate with the ground crew to ensure that the load is properly attached and that the lift is proceeding as planned.
- Safety equipment: Safety equipment is essential to ensure the safety of the lift. This includes items such as safety harnesses, helmets, and fire extinguishers. The ground crew must be properly trained in the use of this equipment to ensure their safety.
- Ground crew: The ground crew is responsible for preparing the load for the lift, attaching the slings and load hook, and ensuring that the load is safely positioned before the lift begins. They must be trained in the proper techniques for preparing the load and must have the necessary equipment and tools to complete the task.
A successful helicopter lift requires the use of a combination of equipment and trained personnel. The equipment used in a helicopter lift must be of the highest quality, properly maintained, and operated by trained personnel to ensure the safety of the lift. The use of the right equipment, coupled with proper training, is essential for a successful helicopter lift.
Flex Air Aviation can help out with any of your lift needs. We turnover quick, detailed and free quotes for any lift project you may have. No matter how big or small Flex Air has you covered. Give us a call right now to speak with an expert logistics manger to go over your project.