Introducing Robert McGivern, technical design engineer on the STRATUS project. Read his interview to find out more about him and the project.
STRATUS
Award-winning
Recognised at the 2023 UK and Ireland Spill Association annual awards, winning Innovation of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year awards.
Helicopter underslung dispersant spray system
The STRATUS system is an underslung dispersant spray system which can be operated from any “helicopter of opportunity” equipped with a cargo hook. Carried as an under slung load by a single strop and harness, the system incorporates its own power supply and is controlled via a simple pilot/crew operated control box.
The system can be jettisoned in an emergency and requires no modifications to the helicopter. The helicopter’s load carrying capacity must be at least that of the STRATUS when filled. The system has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it does not destabilise the helicopter whilst in the air.
Enquire NowUnique aerodynamics ensure stability during flight
The STRATUS Tank has a unique aerodynamic profile to reduce drag, maximising fuel efficiency and transit/spraying speeds. The mass of the system is carefully controlled to maximise dispersant load, rotorcraft fuel capacity and the stability of the system in flight.
Cost-effective aerial dispersant spray system
The benefit of the STRATUS underslung system is that you can store it away until it’s needed. The system can be quickly attached to your helicopter and deployed in an emergency, which is more cost-effective than having an aircraft on standby.
Lightweight and robust
The STRATUS system consists of a lightweight marine-grade aluminium dispersant tank and frame which supports an electric start diesel engine, driving a centrifugal pump and a 10m Spray Boom assembly. The materials used are robust to withstand extreme temperatures and to ensure the product’s longevity.
Flexible solution
The outer sections of the boom can be removed, reducing the span to 6m if required. The spray nozzles are fully configurable to provide a wide range of application rates and swath widths to suit almost any spill situation.
The tank can be supplied with insulation to withstand freezing temperatures, or without for warmer climates.
Features
Available Options
Recommended Spares Kit
A comprehensive set of spares can be supplied with STRATUS systems.Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Package
A comprehensive range of GSE is available with STRATUS systems.Flight Crew and STRATUS Crew Training Courses
Flight Crew will need to be trained to Install, Load, Operate, Drain, Remove, Store and Maintain the system safely and effectively. These courses are provided by Ayles Fernie.Recommended Dispersant
Ayles Fernie will be pleased to recommend dispersants which are suitable for use with the STRATUS system.Technical Specification
We have STRATUS systems available in a range of tank capacities. For full technical specification, please contact us to discuss your specific requirements with our specialists.
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Meet the Expert
Ayles Fernie Case Studies
Project Title: Successful testing Aerial Underslung Dispersant Spray System
Products/Services: Aerial Dispersant Spray System
Project Undertaken: July 2022
Industry Sector: Dispersant Spray Systems
Overview
Ayles Fernie, part of the Darcy Group of companies, have recently successfully completed testing of their new Aerial spray system over the Moray Firth in Scotland.
Project Title: Ayles Fernie team deliver marine dispersant spray systems to the European Maritime Safety Agency
Products/Services: Marine Dispersant Spray System
Project Undertaken: June 2019
Industry Sector: Dispersant Spray Systems
Project Title: Ayles Fernie team deliver 3 phases of training on the Boat Spray system.
Products/Services: Marine Dispersant Spray System
Project Undertaken: June 2019
Industry Sector: Dispersant Spray Systems