TM 10-1670-327-23&P
0002 00
Frangible Skirt Hesitator Ties. In order to continue to promote fast opening of the reserve parachute
during low speed malfunction, Frangible Skirt Assist Lines (FSAL) (figure 8) are attached inside the
canopy, with type I, 1/4-inch cotton webbing between the main seam and a point on the rigging line.
When the lines are together, as in before the canopy begins to inflate, the load path is along the main
seam, the skirt assist line, and the suspension lines, since this is the shortest path. Since tension in the
parachute during early part of the deployment is transmitted down the skirt-accelerator line, the skirt is free
to move outwards in the airflow, which promotes faster inflation by forming a funnel.
Canopy
Skirt
Skirt Assist Line
Suspension
Line
Figure 8. Frangible Skirt Assist Lines At Low Speed.
At high speed, the load is such that the FSAL will break, reapplying the tension to the hem and prevent the
funneling effect (figure 9). The canopy then inflates in a conventional manner.
Canopy
Skirt
Skirt Assist Line
Suspension
Line
Figure 9. Frangible Skirt Assist Lines At High Speed.
0002 00-15