AD/RAD/67 - Skyforce Avionics Skymap and Tracker II Units (Cth)

COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA (Civil Aviation Regulations 1998), PART 39 - 107 CIVIL AVIATION SAFETY AUTHORITY SCHEDULE OF AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

Radio Communication and Navigation Equipment

AD/RAD/67 Skyforce Avionics Skymap and Tracker II Units 13/99

Applicability: Skyforce Avionics Skymap and Tracker II units model numbers SM2000 and TR2000.

Requirement: Inspect the units in accordance with Skyforce Avionics Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) TRSY037C:

1. if Nickel Metal Hydride rechargeable batteries or Lithium batteries are installed remove the batteries in accordance with ASB TRSY037C Action Item 1, or

b. if Nickel Cadmium rechargeable batteries or Alkaline batteries are installed ensure the unit is configured and operated in accordance with ASB TRSY037C Action Item 2.

Note: CAA(UK) AD 005-10-99.

Compliance: Prior to 24 November 1999.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 24 November 1999.

Background: This Directive requires the immediate removal of Nickel Metal Hydride rechargeable batteries or Lithium batteries from the units and gives procedures for the use of units powered by Nickel Cadmium rechargeable batteries or Alkaline batteries.

These actions are required because certain types of Nickel Metal Hydride batteries when exposed to temperatures in excess of forty degrees Celsius may reverse polarity and produce a high voltage capable of generating high temperatures. This can lead to fracture of the battery retaining case and/or rapid reverse discharge through the electrical circuit to which it is connected. Lithium batteries also constitute a hazard in aircraft and, unless holding Federal Aviation Administration Technical Standard Order TSO-97 authorisation, are prohibited from use in aircraft (AD/RAD/39 Amdt 1 refers).