What is mass balance in aviation?

In addition, because aircraft control surfaces are mounted on flexible structures like wings, they are prone to oscillate (“flutter”), a dangerous effect which can be cured by bringing the centre of gravity (c.g.) of the control surface to the hinge line. This is called mass balancing.

What is datum in mass and balance?

The datum is an imaginary vertical plane from which all horizontal measurements are taken for balance purposes, with the aircraft in level flight attitude. The manufacturer has the choice of locating the datum where it is most convenient for measurement, equipment location, and weight and balance computation.

Why is it important to study aircraft weight and balance?

Weight and balance have a direct effect on the stability and performance of the aircraft. If a plane is too heavy, it may never get off the ground. If it’s out of balance, it may be uncontrollable when it does take flight. Maintaining proper weight and balance is an extremely important balancing act.

How do you calculate the mass of an aircraft?

W = w(fuselage) + w(wing) + w(engines) + w(payload) + w(fuel) + To generalize, if we have a total of “n” discrete components, the weight of the aircraft is the sum of the individual i component weights with the index i going from 1 to n.

What is the difference between Dom and ZFM?

Useful Load: It is the total mass of the passengers, baggage and cargo, including any non-revenue load and usable fuel. It is the difference between the Dry Operating Mass and the Take-Off Mass. Zero Fuel Mass (ZFM): It is DOM plus traffic load but excluding fuel.

How do you calculate mass and balance?

Multiply each weight by the arm—the distance from the reference datum—to find the moment. Add all the weights to find the gross weight. Add all the moments to find the total moment. Divide the total moment by the gross weight to find the center of gravity.

What is aviation datum?

Datum (reference datum)—an imaginary vertical plane or line from which all measurements of arm are taken. The datum is established by the manufacturer. Once the datum has been selected, all moment arms and the location of CG range are measured from this point.

What is standard datum plane?

The Standard Datum Plane is a theoretical level where the pressure of the atmosphere is 29.92” Hg and the weight of the air is 14.7 PSI. As the atmospheric pressure changes, the SDP also changes to be either below, at, or above sea level. Density altitude determines aircraft performance in the nonstandard atmosphere.

How do you calculate weight and balance in aviation?

Ascertain from the pilot’s operating handbook the empty weight of the aircraft and determine the weights of people, baggage, and fuel. Multiply each weight by the arm—the distance from the reference datum—to find the moment. Add all the weights to find the gross weight. Add all the moments to find the total moment.

How do you balance a plane?

Most folks tend to use their finger tips to balance their airplanes. To do this, place the tips of your index or middle fingers under each wing, exactly on the line of the CG (i.e. the specified distance back from the leading edge of the wing of the plane) and a couple of inches out from the fuselage sides.