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Helicopters Benefit from Demonstration of Clear Water Rinse System
Unique Rinse System Preserves Helicopters and Helps Protect Aircrews
By Cynthia Greenwood
In a recent demonstration, when an AH-64 Apache helicopter returned to Georgia’s Hunter Army Airfield (AAF) after a daily training mission, it taxied through the Clear Water Rinse System to remove salt, dirt, oil, grease, heavy metals, and other corrosive pollutants. The rinse system (pictured in the following video) has been designed to keep aircraft contaminant-free between periodic wash cycles. Besides the Apache model, the system can accommodate the Kiowa Warrior (OH-58), the Blackhawk (UH-60), and the large Chinook (C/MH-47), as well as C-12 and C-23 cargo aircraft and the multi-mission V-22 Osprey.
Three years ago the Army first demonstrated the new rinse system for DoD helicopters and small planes at Wheeler Army Airfield in Oahu. Since then, the technology has been demonstrated on more helicopter types at Hunter AAF. “The Clear Water Rinse System demonstration has been a resounding success,” said Jim Roberts, a Senior Engineer/Analyst with SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation), who works for the Army's Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM). “As designed, the technology can be applied to all Army rotary wing aircraft and could benefit other DoD aircraft as well.” Helicopter users at Wheeler and Hunter Airfields have recognized the technology’s ability to protect the environment, increase helicopter life, and mitigate corrosion problems that impede flight safety for aircrews. (See Clear Water Rinse System Improves Aircrew Safety and Army Demonstrates Helicopter Rinse System at Wheeler Army Airfield.)
WATCH THE VIDEO OF APACHE HELICOPTER GETTING A RINSE
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