ESDU 08014:2008

ESDU 08014 provides guidance for the development of water pond test programmes, which are performed primarily to ensure that any ingestion of contaminant by the engine intakes of an aeroplane operating on a contaminated runway surface does not pose any deleterious consequences on engine performance. Such tests can also be used to measure the drag forces introduced when the tyres of an aeroplane pass through containment and contaminant impinges on the external surface of an aeroplane.

The Data Item provides background information relating to contaminated runway surfaces, and the different forms of water pond tests. The design of procedures for contaminated runway testing is described in detail. Factors taken into consideration include: the test parameters of interest and the means by which they can be measured; the criteria for selecting a test site and the design and construction of test ponds; and a general test method outline that takes into consideration safety issues related to testing.

Video footage of water pond tests involving twin- and four-engined, and propeller-driven aeroplanes is included. The footage covers a number of different water pond tests, including a typical test where an aeroplane is accelerated from rest and driven through a water pond; a test where the presence of a crosswind influences the spray patterns generated; a test where an aeroplane is driven through a water pond at a rotated attitude; and a test where an aeroplane lands on a runway and is driven through a water pond in landing configuration.

Traces of measurements from water pond tests are analysed. Additionally, possible remedial measures for instances where testing demonstrates that an aeroplane does not successfully meet regulatory requirements are covered.