Buoyancy Testing

Personal flotation devices used aboard aircraft must provide reliable buoyancy when they are needed most. ACES performs eight-hour buoyancy testing to evaluate the net buoyancy force of aircraft flotation devices and support applicable TSO-C13 and TSO-C72 requirements. For aircraft seat cushions designed to serve as flotation devices, ACES can also coordinate buoyancy evaluation with related flammability testing, providing customers with a streamlined approach to testing and certification.

Personal flotation device buoyancy testing evaluates the net buoyancy force of flotation devices intended for use aboard aircraft.

The test is conducted over an eight-hour period to measure buoyancy performance and support demonstration of compliance with applicable Technical Standard Order requirements.

Applicable TSO Requirements

TSO-C13 Applies to certain aircraft life preservers and related personal flotation equipment.
TSO-C72 Applies to applicable individual flotation devices used in aircraft applications.
ACES can support buoyancy test planning and execution for personal flotation devices used in aircraft applications.

Some aircraft seat cushions are designed to serve a dual purpose as personal flotation devices in addition to their normal seating function.

In these applications, the cushion may need to satisfy both applicable buoyancy requirements and the fire-performance requirements associated with aircraft seat cushions.

Related Flammability Requirements

Seat cushions that also function as flotation devices may be required to demonstrate compliance with the applicable fireblock requirements of 14 CFR Part 25, Appendix F, Part II.

ACES can coordinate buoyancy testing with related flammability testing when both requirements apply to the same seat-cushion configuration.

Applicable Requirements