HPO

Hypobaric and Rapid Decompression Chamber

It is generally recognised that the most serious danger for aircrew is the decreased partial pressure of oxygen, known as hypoxia, which can quickly lead to incapacitation or death

Needs

The most significant hazard of flight at altitude is hypoxia

Benefits

Training in hypobaric chambers increases awareness and avoids fatal accidents

Features

The AMST design is at the cutting edge of technology and safety

Safety System

AMST’s safety team has long-term experience with international safety standards like MIL- or DEF-standards. They also consider all aspects from previous incidents or accidents which occurred on other suppliers’ products until today. Input from our customers how to improve their operational capability is considered and highly appreciated.

Chamber Structure and Windows

The chamber structure is cylindrical, consisting of a Main Compartment (MC) for high altitude training and a Rapid Decompression Compartment (RDC) to simulate rapid or explosive decompression. The RDC can also be used as a transfer compartment in emergencies or as a washroom during long-term research or training programmes.

Student Seat and Interior Design

The Hypobaric Chamber never gives the impression of a ‘torture chamber’. The seats provide adequate comfort so that a training session can last several hours. The interior looks similar to a training room: comfortable, user friendly and easy to keep clean.

Vacuum System

The vacuum system is designed for highest operational availability and safety. It consists of vacuum pumps, shut-off and control valves, including all sensors to measure the airflow and the pressure inside the vacuum pipes.

Air Condition and Fresh Air System

The systems provide comfortable climatic conditions and contribute to safety. The fresh air is pre-air-conditioned to keep the chamber temperature as selected. Additionally, the fresh air supply is designed to keep the oxygen content inside the chamber below the critical design value to prevent fire hazards.

Medical Monitoring System

With the medical monitoring system, the trainees’ health and vital signs such as oxygen saturation and pulse rate can be monitored from the control station. The systems can be operated up to a height of 50,000 ft.

Variants

From standard to custom – we build your HPO in a size that is best suited for your training requirements

HPO 6 + 2

This variant is for 6 trainees in the Main Compartment (MC) and 2 trainees in the Rapid Decompression Compartment (RDC). There is 1 instructor seat in the MC and 1 instructor seat in the RDC.

HPO 10 + 4

This variant is for 10 trainees in the Main Compartment (MC) and 4 trainees in the Rapid Decompression Compartment (RDC). There are 2 instructor seats in the MC and 1 instructor seat in the RDC.

HPO 12 + 4

This variant is for 12 trainees in the Main Compartment (MC) and 4 trainees in the Rapid Decompression Compartment (RDC). There are 2 instructor seats in the MC and 1 instructor seat in the RDC.

HPO Custom Size

Other non-standard sizes with your desired numbers of seats in the Main Compartment and Rapid Decompression Compartment are available on request. Consult with us to find the best size for your training requirements.

Options

Material Lock

On each HPO model, a material lock can be installed as an option. The material lock is useful during long-term training sessions or research activities. Via the material lock, medical instruments, pharmaceuticals, food, drinks or other small equipment can be transferred to the Main Compartment without interrupting the training.

Oxygen/Breathing Air Switching

The Oxygen/Breathing Air Switching allows the operator on the control station outside the chamber to disconnect individual trainees from the Oxygen supply without recognition. This makes it possible to evaluate if the trainee recognises hypoxia symptoms and takes the necessary countermeasures. The trainee and the operator can reconnect the oxygen supply.

Low Temperature System

The low temperature system increases the fidelity of rapid decompression trainings. The system produces a cold air shower for the trainees in the Rapid Decompression Compartment with temperatures as low as -50° C.

Chamber Cladding

To certify a chamber against the PVHO standard, the chamber must have a cylindrical shape. Nevertheless, if a rectangular outer shape is desired, chamber cladding can be installed.

References

For reference information related to this product, please contact us directly.