LTL TATM LTL - Vol 1
Issue 1.0
13
If anyone is not satisfied with the function of any of the mooring winches, they are to shout “STOP”. If
the word “STOP” is heard, Low Mooring is to cease immediately and the reason made clear to all
personnel.
As the mooring winches lower the envelope the outer mooring lines not attached to winches will
slacken. If there is a moderate wind, the envelope will move around as the balloon is lowered. If
movement becomes excessive, immediately cease the Low Mooring and re tension all of the outer
mooring lines to equal tension.
Bring the envelope down to within 500mm of the gondola-mooring ring.
The operator should be aiming to land the envelope onto the mooring ring as centrally as possible.
The envelope may move around in the wind. Once the envelope is 500mm from the mooring ring re-
fasten the outer mooring lines to take up the tension again on the outer mooring ropes.
In moderate to strong winds, it may be prudent to attach the lower apex mooring lines whilst the
balloon is in this position. This will prevent the envelope from straying towards the mooring ring and
damaging the fan assembly at the bottom of the balloon.
The operator can now lower the envelope on to the mooring ring. It is important to monitor the helium
and ballonet pressures during this process. The balloon should be lowered until the mooring ring
causes the lower apex of the balloon to indent by approximately 500mm.
As the balloon is being lowered, the helium and ballonet pressure will rise rapidly. The operator is to
ensure that the helium pressure does not exceed 38mm and the ballonet pressure does not exceed
14mm.
Once in position, the outer mooring ropes should be re-tensioned and the 8 lower apex-mooring
straps (if not already in place) should be attached and tensioned.
