Time to Retire Your Parachute?
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parachute

1.4 PARACHUTE SERVICE LIFE

Independent testing of aged nylon materials has proven that its strength degrades over time, therefore, Para-Phernalia, Inc. and Free Flight Enterprises have established a 20-year service life from the date of component manufacture for the Softie Pilot Emergency System and the Preserve line of emergency parachutes.

This week we got some points from Dan Tarasievich at Para-Phernalia Inc. regarding Section 1.4 of there service manuals.

  • Parachutes (both the canopy and harness/container) currently manufactured are made of nylon. While nylon does not degrade significantly in a controlled environment it does degrade with exposure to UV and wear and tear.
  • Parachutes  are significantly exposed to UV in aircraft which can weaken the harness, container, and especially the stitching.
  • The 20 year life cycle for civilian equipment originally started with parachute riggers from the US West Coast not wanting to incur liability with older parachute systems.
  • Many countries in Europe require a service life on parachutes and most of the US parachute manufacturers sell into those countries.
  • Para-Phernalia, Inc. sells parachutes worldwide and must comply with the requirements. To protect our company and our customers we have determined that a 20 year service life worldwide be implemented.

 

Cyclo polisher

The Cyclo is an ideal polisher for your sailplane or aircraft. It's easy to use even for a beginner. Combine with WX Block & Seal for professional results which will extend the finish of your sailplane.

The Cyclo Toolmakers Model 5–Pro, Mark II Polisher is our 110 volt machine featuring a solid state variable speed controller, three year warranty and complete Vibration Elimination System™ set–up. The Model 5–Pro Mark II Series Polisher is designated for use in North America and countries that supply 110 V a.c. power.

 

garret willat  Garret Willat holds a flight instructor rating with over 8000 hours in sailplanes. His parents have owned Sky Sailing Inc. since 1979. He started instructing the day after his 18th birthday. Since then, Garret has represented the US Junior team in 2003 and 2005. He graduated from Embry-Riddle with a bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics. Garret represented the US Open Class team in 2008 and 2010 and the Club Class team in 2014. Garret has won 3 US National Championships.