INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE

DISMANTLING, OVERHAULING,
REPAIRING, CALIBRATING, TESTING
AND INSTALLING THE

KBB-KOLLSMAN
RATE OF CLIMB
INDICATOR
Mark IB

KELVIN, BOTTOMLEY AND BAIRD LIMITED

KELVIN WORKS, BASINGSTOKE, HANTS
 FOREWORD
The K.B.B. Rate of Climb Indicator As the notes increased it was realised
possesses some unique features the that it would be advantageous to
significance of which must be fully separate the more important of them
understood if the satisfactory servicing completely from the main body of the
of the instrument is to be adequately book. The principal ones were there-
accomplished. fore segregated into a section which
In the Rate of Climb Indicator more has been headed ' Technical Notes.'
probably than in any other instrument In this form they will now have a wide
it is unwise to attempt, and indeed appeal as they explain the operation of
almost impracticable to lay down hard the important points of the mechanism
and fast rules which will cover every with the aid of diagrams in a manner
possible contingency. We must, there- which leaves no doubt as to the function
fore, be content with enunciating prin- of the devices concerned.
ciples to guide the repairer on the lines All the test apparatus required is
to be followed. described, and illustrations of all com-
In the present instance our desire to ponent parts are provided, while other
satisfy an insistent demand for informa- necessary details are very fully dealt
tion not readily available elsewhere has with.
largely been countered by an equally We commend this volume to the
urgent necessity to conserve paper. instrument repairer as a combined
But it was evident from the start that effort to remove his difficulties. We
additional explanatory notes would be hope it will be used as a text book
of inestimable value to the repairer and and a reference book.
we set out to provide the maximum If you wish any further guidance we
which the exigencies of the space limita- shall always be happy to help you in any
tions would permit. way we can.
January 1945
 CONTENTS
GENERAL DESCRIPTION Page I
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION 2

RATE OF CLIMB I N D I C A T O R , MARK IB*

I DISMANTLING:—
a Removal o f mechanism . . . . . . . 3
b Dismantling o f case assembly . . . . . . 4
c Dismantling o f mechanism . . . . . . . 5
2 EXAMINATION AND OVERHAUL:—
a Handstaff pinion . b Bridge jewel . . . 6
c Rocking shaft assembly . . . . . . . 6
3 REPLACEMENT OF HAIRSPRING 7
4 CALIBRATING SPRINGS 8
5 EXAMINATION AND REPLACEMENT OF DIAPHRAGM AND METERING UNIT 8
6 RE-ASSEMBLY:—
a Re-assembly o f mechanism . . . . . . . 9
b Straightening bent handstaff . . . . . . 10
c Adjustment of handstaff and sector . . . . . 11
d Cleaning of mechanism e Assembly of calibration bracket 11
7 REPLACEMENT AND ADJUSTMENT OF ZERO SETTING MECHANISM . 12
8 GENERAL INSPECTION BEFORE CALIBRATION 12
9 CALIBRATION AND ADJUSTMENT:—
a Preliminary setting u p o f apparatus . . . . . 13
b Calibration a t 1,000 ft./min. climb and descent . . . 13
10 SETTING DIVE OVERLOAD STOP 14
11 SETTING CLIMB OVERLOAD STOP 15
12 STATIC BALANCE OF MECHANISM:—
a Purpose o f method . . . . . . . . 15
b Procedure 16
13 CALIBRATION (continued):—
a at 2,000 ft./min. descent b at 3,000 ft./min. descent . 17
c at 4,000 ft./min. descent d on climb side . . . 18
14 RE-ASSEMBLY 18
15 CHECK FOR LEAK 19
16 BELL JAR TEST 19
17 TESTS AND TOLERANCES 20
RATE OF CLIMB I N D I C A T O R (EARLIER TYPE) 21
T E C H N I C A L NOTES
ZERO SETTING MECHANISM 22
USE OF ZERO ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM 22
CALIBRATION A N D ADJUSTMENT 23
DIAPHRAGM DIVE OVERLOAD STOP 23
DIAPHRAGM CLIMB OVERLOAD STOP 24
DIAPHRAGM A N D METERING UNIT 24
CALIBRATION APPARATUS
INCLINED MANOMETER CALIBRATION STAND 26
LEAK-TESTING APPARATUS 27
TABLE FOR DETERMINING ERROR 30
SMALL T O O L S 31
SPECIAL T O O L S 33
I N S T A L L A T I O N DETAILS 34
LISTS OF SPARES 35
 GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The K.B.B. Rate of Climb Indicator The moulded case is of one-piece

Mark IB* is a simple means of measuring construction and is rendered airtight
the rate of change of atmospheric pres- except for the static nipple. It is fitted
sure due to change in altitude of the with a stout glass to permit the instru-
aircraft in which the instrument is fitted. ment to be used in pressure cabin
A single pointer is mounted on a machines.
spindle in the mechanism. This pointer The pointer and some of the letters
moves round a dial graduated in even and graduations of the dial are coated
divisions each representing one thou- with luminous compound to make them
sand feet per minute and each division legible under night flying conditions, or
is subdivided into graduations of 200 they may be coated with a fluorescent
ft./min. The range is from 0 to 4,000 compound which glows under ultra-
ft./min. climb and descent. violet floodlighting.

1
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
The principle of operation of this the rate of climb or descent of the air-
instrument can be followed from the craft. When the static pressure is
sketch. It consists of a sensitive dia- steady, the pressures inside the dia-
phragm which operates a pointer through phragm and case are equal, and the de-
a link and suitable mechanism. The flection of the pointer is zero.
diaphragm is connected directly to the The leak is specially designed to com-
static nipple. This static nipple incor- pensate for changes in the temperature
porates a leak which allows a slow and density of the air, and consists of
passage of air from the inside of the case an arrangement of small capillaries and
to the static connection. The case must orifices. It can be shown both mathe-
be airtight except for this leak. matically and experimentally that such
When the static pressure is changing, an arrangement gives efficient tempera-
corresponding to a change in altitude, ture and altitude compensation over a
the pressure in the diaphragm changes wide range of conditions.
more rapidly than the pressure in the The function of the diaphragm, the
case, and hence the diaphragm is de- leak and of some of the other working
flected. This deflection causes a move- parts is described more fully in 'Tech-
ment of the pointer, which indicates nical Notes ' on page 22.

2
 DISMANTLING, OVERHAUL,
CALIBRATION AND RE-ASSEMBLY
I Dismantling sent off for luminosity check, and any
necessary reluminising and rebalancing
la Removal of mechanism of pointer should be carried out at once,
so that the parts are ready when re-
Insert the instrument upright on a assembly takes place.
wooden block, or similar support. Remove the countersunk screw in the
Remove the outer snap ring using the front of the mechanism body plate (fig.
blade of a sharp penknife to prise up 2), then lift out the spigot and the 54-
the end, taking care not to chip the
glass. The glass will then probably come
out quite easily if a suction pad is used.
If this is not available, working the glass
backward and forward gently with the
fingers will generally release it from the
gasket. Any difficulty is likely to be
confined to instances where the rubber
of the gasket has perished, and where
this has happened, some additional per-
suasion may be called for. Normally the
rubber gasket and the retaining ring
will come out together.
The pointer should then come easily
from a straight pull with thumb and
forefinger. Avoid putting any strain on
the handstaff as this may bend or break tooth wheel. The ring which holds the
it. mechanism can now be snapped out by
Remove the inner snap ring. Insert levering under one edge with a small
the pointed rod in the hole at the end of screwdriver (fig. 3).
the ring, and relieve the tension of the
ring on the case by bending the ring in
a little towards the centre of the dial
(fig. I). It will then lift out quite easily.

Now turn the case over and loosen

the three screws which secure the
metering unit to the bottom of the case.
Make quite sure that the nipple screws
Remove the dial screws using a small are not slackened in error. For guidance
watchmaker's screwdriver, and invert on this point we might explain that the
the case to allow the dial to fall into the metering unit screws alternate with the
hand. Dial and pointer should now be nipple screws round the nipple, and it
3
 is always one of the metering unit
screws which occupies the hole in the
shortest distance between the nipple
and the edge of the case (fig. 4). The

a small cross-pin driven through the

pinion and stem. In the newer instru-
ments this ring will not be included.
With tweezers push the pin as far
screws have probably been touched with through as possible, then turn the pinion
Bakelite varnish, but this will flake off round and withdraw the pin from the
as soon as the screw is turned. It may other side of the stem. The stem will
be necessary to press on the screws to then drop out through the front of the
break the seal. case leaving the pinion and spring still
Invert and withdraw the case from inside. These can be lifted out.
the mechanism. It is very important The purpose of the spring is to keep
that the utmost care should be taken in the stem tightly in contact with the
this operation. The diaphragm is of leather washer, so that the case will be
extremely delicate construction and will quite airtight at this point.
not stand up to any rough handling. When the stem falls out, the leather
The least dent in the material (which is washer will probably remain adhering
thin foil) will render it useless (fig. 5). to the bottom of the counterbore. Lift
it out with tweezers and fit anew washer
which has previously been steeped in
castor oil.
This replacement of leather washer
should be carried out in most instances
when an instrument is dismantled for
overhaul. The cost of doing so is
negligible and much trouble due to air
leakage has afterwards been traced to
neglect of this small point.
If there is insufficient time to dismantle
the stem, a drop of pharmaceutical
castor oil on the existing leather washer
may improve it very considerably.
Now, set aside the case for a new
paper washer to be fitted on the nipple
\b Dismantling of inside the case. This is essential to make
case assembly an airtight joint when the metering unit
is replaced later on. The washer is fixed
Before proceeding further with the with Bakelite varnish which requires 24
mechanism, presuming that the case is hours to dry.
sound and can be used again, remove the At all times when working with the
zero adjusting pinion from the case. mechanism out of the case, care must
Press down the retaining ring on the be taken to avoid damage to the hand-
shoulder of the pinion (fig. 6) to reveal staff and to the diaphragm. The most
4
satisfactory position for laying the At the back of the plate are two bosses
mechanism on a bench, therefore, is for the bridge. A locating pin is driven
resting on the pillar at the base of the in to the plate to enable the mechanism
diaphragm, held upright by the capillary to be located accurately in the case
tubing where it bends to join the meter- during assembly. For simplicity the boss
ing unit (fig. 7). (In this position the for the zero adjustment mechanism has
locating pin in the mechanism plate is at been omitted in the sketch.
the top.) Discretion should be used about the
extent of the dismantling carried out.
There is no virtue in stripping the
mechanism right down as a matter of
routine. Indeed, this frequently entails
an appreciable amount of work which
is quite unnecessary and unproductive,
and it tends to disturb adjustments and
settings which are better left alone.
Procedure can be divided under a few
broad headings and these should be taken
as a guide to the limits implied.
Remove the two screws securing the
calibration bracket to the spacers and
to the arm on the connecting web of
the casting (fig. 9) then the screw and

\c Dismantling of mechanism
As frequent mention is made of the
various parts of the mechanism body
casting, it is desirable that these parts
should be easily identified. To assist
in this direction an outline sketch of the
casting is given in fig. 8.

washer holding the stiffening plate to

the pillar of the mechanism body (fig.
10). This releases the calibration

The casting, which is of an aluminium

alloy, comprises a plate (on which the
dial is mounted) and two pillars for
supporting the mechanism, strengthened
by a connecting web. On one pillar is
an arm which takes the bearing for the
rocking shaft and the hairspring post,
while the arm on the web carries the
calibration bracket and springs.
5
bracket and the stiffening plate. depends on the satisfactory performance
Slacken all calibrating screws (fig. 11). of the handstaff. If the pivot is bent
this can frequently be rectified after
re-assembling. Any bending would most
probably be between the jewel and the
top of the mechanism plate. (See para-
graph 'Straightening bent handstaff'
below.) If the teeth are faulty or signs
of wear are present, replace.

2b Bridge jewel
Examine the jewel on the bridge for
cracks or chipping round the edge of the
hole. If present, tap out old jewel on
the stake, and replace. Deal similarly
with the jewel in the mechanism body.
This is to prevent any risk of re-assembly
with the screws protruding through, an
operation which might damage the
calibrating springs. The screws have 2c Rocking shaft assembly
been coated lightly with Bakelite var-
nish to hold them in position, and to Check that the sector is perfectly
dissolve this, the bracket should be flat, and that the teeth are undamaged.
immersed in methylated spirits for about If the meshing of the sector and hand-
a quarter of an hour. staff pinion has been too tight, damage
Meantime, remove the screws secur- sometimes occurs to the sector teeth,
ing the bridge to the bridge boss and which are softer than the pinion. This
lift off bridge (fig. 12). This will release damage is, fortunately, rarely observed.
the handstaff pinion. It is occasioned by faulty adjustment on
some previous servicing of the instru-
ment by a repairer not thoroughly
familiar with the adjustments.
It is difficult to get satisfactory results
from a sector which has been bent and
straightened, and faulty teeth will cause
erratic readings. If either is observed,
the rocking shaft should be replaced.
Confirm that the handstaff pinion is
midway round the arc of the sector. If
it is badly placed this will require to be
corrected and the necessary action is
mentioned in the paragraph 'Adjust-
ment of Handstaff and Sector ' below.
Check pivots and jewels. With rough
usage the jewels will be more easily
damaged than the pivots which are very
2 Examination and overhaul strong. A broken pivot can be extracted
2a Handstaff pinion with pliers, and a new one pressed in.
When performing this operation,remem-
Immerse the handstaff in benzine for ber that the rocking shaft is of delicate
a few moments to remove grit and dirt. construction and use great care.
Examine for faulty teeth or bent pivot The jewel in the mechanism body plate
and for marks showing signs of wear on can, if damaged, be driven out on the
the shoulders of the pivot, using a 2" stake and replaced, and the jewel in the
eyeglass. This examination is very arm on the pillar by loosening the secur-
important since a very great deal ing screw.
6
3 Replacement of hairspring
A hairspring is fitted to the rocking
shaft to prevent backlash in the pointer,
and to steady the mechanism while in
operation. In a very few instances only
is it necessary to fit a new hairspring,
because its travel in controlling the
action of the rocking shaft is but a
fraction of a single turn, and damage is
therefore likely to occur mainly when
handling—either in dismantling or re-
assembly—unless in the case of a crash.
When replacement is called for, com-
mence by removing the rocking shaft Remove the faulty spring by prising
from the mechanism body. The correct the collet off with tweezers, making a
procedure for this is first of all to mental note of the direction in which
straighten the pin holding the link and the spring winds relative to the collet.
to withdraw it, thus releasing the rock- Remove and examine the disc under-
ing shaft from the link. This will be neath the hairspring. If it is undamaged
found a little difficult owing to the small it may be used again, but it should be
size of the pin, but in view of the few polished to remove any marks which
occasions when it is likely to be necessary, may have been caused by the faulty
the extra trouble involved is worth hairspring rubbing. It has been found
while spending. that such marks sometimes result in
When removing the link for any slight friction with the coils of the new
reason at all, always note the hole in hairspring and disturb readings.
which the bearing pin was located, and Replace the disc. The new hairspring
make quite sure that the pin is replaced is supplied already colleted. Press it on
in this hole. When fitting a new dia- to the end of the rocking shaft, making
phragm it is possible that the same hole sure that it winds in the correct direc-
may not be the correct one—this can tion, and adjust until the end of the
only be confirmed by trial at l,000 ft./min. spring is located just above the end of
calibration—but it should be standard the calibration arm, where the arm is
practice to replace the pin in the same pinned to the link. Check also that the
hole, since it will perhaps save a great turns do not rub against one another
deal of time later at this adjustment. and that the spring is free from contact
The alternative to removing the bear- with the disc.
ing pin is to loosen the screw holding Now, mount the rocking shaft assem-
the calibration arm, and thus release the bly, and swing it outward until the
calibration arm from the rocking shaft. sector is over the locating pin on the
This is very much easier to accomplish, plate of the mechanism body, and resting
of course, but the great objection to against the pillar. Grasp the end of the
this procedure is that it immediately hairspring carefully with tweezers, and
disturbs the setting of the link and the put a half-turn of tension on it by bring-
rocking shaft, and restoring this setting ing it round and slipping it through the
is troublesome and requires much care hole in the hairspring holder, then
when calibrating at 1,000 ft./min. climb secure it in this position by the taper
and descent. pin.
Following the removal of the pin or Confirm by inspection that the hair-
the loosening of the calibration arm, spring is lying quite flat. If not, some
withdraw the taper pin securing the slight adjustment of the position of the
end of the hairspring to the hairspring hairspring post may be necessary. This
post and loosen the jewel in the arm on is easily effected by easing the screw
the mechanism body pillar (fig. 13). securing it to the arm on the pillar.
The rocking shaft can now be lifted Now swing the rocking shaft back
clear of the mechanism. into its correct operating position. The
7
hairspring now has one complete turn calibrating stem to function equally well
of tension. for climb and descent and to avoid the
The correct setting of the hairspring link rubbing on one or the other. The
is essential. Any inaccuracy in the setting space available is so small that this adjust-
will become apparent when an attempt ment is critical. Before the securing
is made to calibrate the mechanism at screws are tightened home, the spring
1,000ft. min. climb and descent. It will nearest to the diaphragm should be
be clear from the construction of the gently led into position using a pair of
mechanism that if the tension is too pliers or tweezers (fig. 15).
great, its opposition to the diaphragm
motion on ciimb will cause a minus error,
and its co-operation with the diaphragm
motion on descent a plus error.
Adjust the endshake of the rocking
shaft as necessary by altering the position
of the jewel in the pillar arm. It is diffi-
cult to express on paper the limit of
end-shake, but a useful guide is to con-
sider about 0002" as a fair amount. A
feeler gauge might be used until sufficient
experience is gained. This value could
be accepted for most occasions where
endshake is referred to, except where
the parts themselves are extremely
small, when the amount will be propor-
tionately less.
5 Examination and replace-
4 Calibrating springs ment of diaphragm and
metering unit
These should not be disturbed unless
they have suffered damage. Any kink or The function of these is discussed at
bend in the springs renders them un- some length in the Technical Notes
suitable for calibration and they would which will be found on page 11.
then require to be replaced. Examine the diaphragm closely for
If it is desired to remove them, any dents, marks or scratches. If any
slacken the screws securing them to of these are observed, the complete
the arm on the connecting web of the
casting (fig. 14).
When refitting, make quite sure that
they are exactly one above the other.
This is most important to enable the

8
diaphragm and metering unit must be Fit new diaphragm assembly in reverse
scrapped. The slightest mark prevents order. Care must be taken here to
the instrument from calibrating to a ensure that the tubing is not touching
good reading. Don't, however, confuse the diaphragm, or it will disturb expan-
these with the marks inseparable from sion. The tube will bend away easily in
the production of formed blanks on a the fingers.
press tool. Forming marks are generally Dismantle the metering unit by re-
radial and uniformly distributed round moving the screw with the special screw-
the outer parts of the diaphragm. driver for the purpose (fig. 19). Clean
To replace the diaphragm and meter-
ing unit, remove the pin which secures
the calibrating stem to the centre piece
of the diaphragm, and also the pin which
holds the link to the centre piece.
Remove the climb stop by loosening
the screw and lock-nut (fig. 16) then
remove the two screws at the side of
the diaphragm mounting piece (fig. 17).

all parts thoroughly, removing any traces

of dust or foreign matter. On no
account should cleaning fluid be em-
ployed in this operation. Re-assemble
carefully.

6 Re-assembly
6a Re-assembly of mechanism
Support the diaphragm by holding the
rim gently between thumb and fore- Hold the mechanism level with the
finger, and when quite loose, slip out by eye, diaphragm plate upward, and check
grasping the capillary tube with the that the calibrating stem, when held
other hand, and lift clear (fig. 18). vertically, head down, hangs free, and
that it will swing evenly to either side
(fig. 20). This is most important, and

9
the examination must be carried out with out for the link as for the calibrating
care since the movement is very small stem, if any binding is suspected.
indeed. Fig. 21 gives an enlarged view Polish the pivots on the handstaff
pinion in elder pith. Clean out jewels
on bridge and mechanism plate with
pegwood sharpened to a fine point. Fit
the handstaff pinion and the bridge.
The handstaff should be quite free. Test
by holding the instrument upright in
one hand and tapping the handstaff
gently with the forefinger nail with an
up-and-down movement. It should be
possible to hear the pinion drop on the
jewel under its own weight (fig. 22).
The amount of endshake should be
kept very small—the least possible com-
patible with freedom. The endshake
can be adjusted by altering the position
of the jewel in the bridge. This is effected
on the staking tool.
If sticky, remove bridge and again
examine jewels and pinions, and if these
of the calibrating stem between the are all in order, replace and check that
calibrating springs. If the calibrating the handstaff is dead upright and not
stem does not swing freely, remove the bearing to one side. This can be ascer-
pin securing it to the diaphragm centre tained by holding the instrument level
piece, insert a fine needle in the hole at and looking across the mechanism plate,
the end of the calibrating stem, and feel while turning the mechanism round.
for any binding. If present, broach out
with a fine broach. Re-assemble and
re-test. 6b Straightening bent handstaff
Test that the link between the dia-
phragm and the calibration arm also is If the handstaff is bent a little, it can
quite free. It must not bind. Test by frequently be straightened. Bending is
holding the link with fine pointed invariably at the long pivot, and usually
tweezers at each end in turn and at the takes place where the handstaff leaves
same time make sure that there is just the bearing in the mechanism plate.
a little endshake to ensure freedom. The special tweezers described else-
The same procedure should be carried where are inserted in the cavity in the
plate, and the handstaff coaxed in the
appropriate direction until it is straight.
Ordinary pliers should not be used for
this job, as they may not straighten the
handstaff, but simply bend it back at
another point. The tweezers are easily
obtained and very simply adapted for
the purpose. They do the operation so
much more efficiently that their produc-
tion is encouraged (fig. 23).
Here is a practical tip of special value
to instrument repairers who also handle
K.B.B., Mark XIVA sensitive altimeters.
The same handstaff is employed in both
mechanisms, and if the damaged hand-
staff were mounted in a Mark XIVA
mechanism, it would be much more
easily reached with tweezers or pliers,
10
 has been fitted, or the compensating
plate adjusted, it will be necessary to
set the sector. It is essential that the
pinion should rest midway round the
arc. The setting is done by using a pair
of smooth pliers and a special sector key.
Grip the rocking shaft gently with the
pliers. Place the key over the riveted
end of the sector shoulder and turn the
sector to the required position (fig. 25).

while a quick flick of the sector can

rotate the handstaff rapidly to observe
the effect of the straightening efforts.

6c Adjustment of handstaff
and sector

Make sure that the depth between the

sector teeth and the handstaff pinion is
correct. This can be tested by holding Extreme care should be taken not to
the mechanism in one hand and gently twist the pliers as strain on the rocking
depressing the handstaff with the thumb shaft will break the pivots.
of the same hand to hold it steady, then
gripping the side of the sector with a 6d Cleaning of mechanism
pair of tweezers and moving the sector
backward and forward crosswise (fig.
24). There should be very slight move- Place the mechanism in a shallow dish
ment between the teeth of the sector containing some clean benzine, and wash
with a fine camel-hair brush or fine paint
brush. Every precaution must be taken
while washing to prevent the benzine
from entering the diaphragm through
the climb stop or getting into the meter-
ing unit.

6e Assembly of calibration
bracket
Assemble in reverse order from dis-
mantling, making sure that the two
calibrating springs are depressed to-
gether to allow the bracket to pass
safely over them. Be sure that no cali-
brating screws are protruding. If there
and the pinion. The correct depth is of should be any, slacken them until their
the utmost importance for a steady tips are concealed within the arms of
reading, but the exact amount can only the calibration bracket.
be determined after a little practical Care should be taken to see that the
experience. dive stop passes between the link and
If a new rocking shaft or diaphragm the calibrating stem. It is imperative
II
that the stop should be set in a central The adjusting stem must be set in
position between the link and the cali- such a position that the pointer can be
brating stem so that there will be no moved in either direction by it, there-
rubbing or friction when the diaphragm fore it is fixed in one of the two midway
is expanding or contracting. Secure the positions. For the sake of uniformity the
bracket in position by the two screws. wider portion of the shoulder is turned
Replace the stiffening plate. away from the pillar on the mechanism
On examining the calibration bracket, body, and the taper pin is pressed in at
a slot will be observed on an extension right angles to the diaphragm. With
of the arm, for which there are no corre- the zero setting mechanism in this
sponding screws. This can be ignored. position, any adjustment of the screw
It was used in an earlier type of instru- on the case in a clockwise direction will
ment for the climb and dive stop, but is result in the pointer also being moved
now obsolete, having been replaced by clockwise.
the devices described later. There is no functional reason why the
wider portion of the shoulder cannot be
turned towards the pillar, but it is
7 Replacement and adjustment better to keep all instruments identical
of zero setting mechanism in performance in this minor point.
The zero adjusting stem must also be
This rarely requires taking apart or accurately mounted at the end of the
replacing. The main point to watch is compensating plate. If rotation of the
that the 36-tooth wheel is tight on the stem does not cause continuous move-
zero adjusting stem. If it should prove ment of the pointer, the compensating
to be loose, draw out the taper pin plate is not bearing against the stem
securing the stem to the mechanism properly, and it will be necessary to
body (fig. 26) and withdraw the wheel achieve this by bending the compensat-
ing plate outward a little more, using
pliers. This operation is not often called
for, and needs great care and attention.
No undue force must be used, keeping
in mind that the diaphragm must remain
in an upright position.
A mark might be made on the 38-tooth
wheel and a corresponding one on the
mechanism plate to make sure that when
final assembly of the mechanism is taking
place, the position of the zero setting
mechanism has not been disturbed.

8 General inspection before

calibration

Hold the mechanism in both hands so

that the calibration bracket is horizontal
and level with the eye, and tilt it both
sides to make sure that the calibrating
stem is swinging freely and evenly.
and stem along with the washers. Fit Should it be swinging unevenly, this
a new wheel and stem assembly, and can be remedied by easing the two
replace the washers in their correct screws securing the bracket to the
order—the thin domed phosphor-bronze mechanism and gripping the calibrating
washer first and the brass washer on top. spring nearest to the diaphragm with a
The phosphor-bronze washer is to make pair of pliers and moving it up and down
the assembly friction tight, and the a little to give the required setting.
brass washer acts as a spacer. The head of the calibrating stem must be
12
set in the centre of the two springs. atmosphere and set the pointer exactly
This is most important. The movement on zero. It is imperative that the pointer
now possible for the calibrating stem is should be accurately placed. If not quite
very small. on the mark it must be removed and
Points to note specially at this stage re-set.
are :— At any time when it is necessary to
check that the pointer is on zero, make
(i) The link must not foul the cali- quite sure that the vent is open and that
brating springs, the diaphragm is subjected internally
(ii) There must be perfect freedom and externally to atmospheric pressure
in all moving parts. only. This point is easily overlooked
(iii) The screws on the calibration and would introduce false readings.
bracket must be tight but free to
move with a fine needle for pur-
pose of calibration. 9b Calibration at 1,000 ft./min.
(iv) The calibrating springs should
correspond with one another climb and descent
when pressed together, and there
should be no rubbing on the (i) Items affecting pointer
bracket whatever. displacement.
Re-check these points and satisfy your- Up to 1,000 feet climb and descent, the
self that they are all in order. calibrating stem does not come into
contact with the calibrating springs,
therefore neither the springs nor their
9 Calibration and adjustment adjusting screws come into play.
This means that the method necessary
9a Preliminary setting up of for calibrating at this point differs from
apparatus the method used at the higher speeds,
where the springs form an integral part
of the calibrating mechanism.
As the inclined manometer calibration Up to this point the pointer displace-
frame is in general use on the factory ment is affected by :—
assembly lines and in most repair shops,
reference is made solely to this appara- (i) The setting of the zero adjust-
tus in the notes which follow. This is ment.
the correct apparatus for the Job, and (ii) The effective length of the link
makeshift fittings will never be satis- between the diaphragm and the
factory. rocking shaft. (There are several
The instrument is first calibrated as a alternative holes in the link.)
sensitive pressure gauge (see Technical (iii) The effective radius of the cali-
Notes), therefore the leak permitting bration arm, and
the passage of air through the orifice is
(iv) The pull from the tension on the
sealed by rubber tubing and a clip or
small brass stopper. hairspring.
Assemble the mechanism into the test (ii) Procedure.
case. Fix the leak to the back of the case
by the three screws, and secure the Check against the inclined column at
mechanism in position by the inner snap the two points, then open the vent and
ring. Fit a test dial in position by two reduce reading to zero. If the errors
dial screws and mount a properly have been infinitesimal, proceed to the
balanced test pointer. Fix the case in next calibration point without disturb-
the buzzer frame. Put a drop of Bakelite ing the setting. If the errors are outside
varnish on the climb screw and nut to the permitted limit, the procedure to
prevent any leak from the diaphragm. be followed will depend upon the nature
Connect up to the calibration frame. of the errors which are observed.
Make sure that the vent is open to the Probable errors can be grouped under
13
six headings, and may be tabulated as Altering the position of the calibration
follows :— arm will, of course, affect the readings at
ERROR the higher test points also, but to a
CLIMB DESCENT lesser degree, and any alteration can be
taken care of in calibration at these
points.
It may not always be possible to re-
move the errors completely at 1,000
ft./min., for example where there is a
plus error on climb, and no error on
descent. Provided the errors are rela-
tively small they may be left meantime,
Experience has shown that (c) is the as it will be observed that the further
most general error and (d) least to be adjustments necessary for correction at
expected. 2,000 ft./min. will have the effect of
(a) can be corrected by increasing the correcting these minor discrepancies.
radius of action of the calibration arm, Before proceeding further, however, set
that is, by moving it a little outward. the overload stops.
(b) can be corrected by decreasing
the radius of action of the calibration
arm, that is, by moving it a little inward. 10 Setting dive overload stop
In the case of (c), (d), (e) and (f), if
the combined error does not exceed With the vent open, check that the
100 feet, the logical solution is to adjust pointer is exactly on zero, and if not
the calibration arm a little to allow the re-set it, then close the vent and increase
errors to be more evenly distributed — the pressure on the diaphragm until the
for example, plus 10 minus 60 could be pointer is brought right round the
made to read plus 35 minus 35. descent scale and approaches the 4,000
Errors on climb and descent to a com- ft./min. climb graduation. Maintain the
bined total of 100 ft./min. can be adjusted pressure at this point, slacken the screw
by altering the position of the calibration securing the dive stop to the bracket
arm on the rocking shaft. Errors up to and depress the stop against the centre
200 ft./min. suggest either that the link piece of the diaphragm (fig. 27). As
is in the wrong position — which would
only occur if a new diaphragm assembly
had been fitted, or if the link had been
withdrawn during dismantling and re-
assembled in the wrong position-
incorrect set up on the hairspring, or
incorrect setting of the zero adjustment.
An excessive error has also been ob-
served where the calibration arm has
been removed at some time and very
carelessly replaced.
During these adjustments, make quite
sure first of all that no screws are touch-
ing the diaphragm.
After each adjustment open the vent
and re-set the pointer on zero, then
re-check at the two points, carrying out
any further adjustments which may be soon as the stop touches the diaphragm
necessary to reduce the errors to the centre piece, the pointer will be ob-
lowest possible value. Before each test, served to move back.
the pointer must be re-set. Continue the depression until the
Once the most suitable position of pointer reaches the position previously
the calibration arm has been determined, decided upon equivalent to about
it must not be disturbed while calibra- 4,800 ft./min., then tighten the screw.
ting at higher points. Make quite sure that the dive stop does
14
not foul the link side of the calibrating
stem, and again check that no calibrating
screws are touching the diaphragm.
This latter is often the case during this
operation. Any screws touching should
be screwed into the bracket until they
are quite free from the diaphragm.
Now release the pressure control
clip, and bring the pointer back to zero.
Replace the clip once more, increase
pressure, and check that the pointer
will not go beyond the 4,800 mark on
overload. Maintain the overload position
for about half a minute, This gives an
opportunity to confirm that there is not
a slight leak in the diaphragm. If one is
present, the pointer will gradually
return towards zero in this test, in
which case a replacement diaphragm
will be needed. Should the diaphragm
be dented, this will be observed during
the test by an oil-can effect. If any dents
are present in the diaphragm, a new
diaphragm must be fitted. On over-
loading again, some of the screws may
still be observed touching the dia- Open the clip and allow the pointer
phragm. These, as before, must be slack- to return to zero. Now overload on
ened. Open vent and allow the pointer climb again by reducing the pressure,
to return to zero. If it does not return and confirm that the pointer does not
exactly, it will be necessary to re-set it travel beyond the 4,800 ft./min. mark
and repeat this operation. setting. Re-adjust if necessary.

12 Static balance of
11 Setting of climb overload mechanism
stop 12a Purpose of method

If the position of this stop has been A substantial contribution to the

disturbed it will require to be re-set. efficiency of the instrument is made by
Reduce the pressure on the diaphragm the static balance of the mechanism, and
until the pointer is brought round the great care has been taken over this in
climb scale and approaches the descent the design of the component parts. But
markings. Maintain the pressure at this since there are numerous adjustable
value, and by means of the special box parts in the mechanism, the exact
spanner (to prevent the nut turning at position of which cannot be determined
the same time) and a fine screwdriver, until the instrument has been calibrated,
turn in the screw until the pointer additional provision is made so that the
returns to the same position fixed for mechanism can be brought into accurate
the descent overload, that is, equivalent balance once the final adjustments to
to about 4,800 ft./min. (fig. 28). Do this these parts have been made.
carefully and gently. Give the screw This operation is usually carried out
and nut a touch of Bakelite varnish to here since the procedure in calibrating
fix them at this point, and to prevent at higher ranges has little effect on the
air leakage. balance.
If the pointer will not reach the 4,800 The adjustment is effected by varying
ft./min. mark, of course, the screw will the position of a small brass counter-
require to be eased a little. weight mounted on a phosphor-bronze
15
pin on the rocking shaft. The counter- In this position it is more accessible and
weight is moved along the pin towards has less effect on the balancing action of
or away from the rocking shaft to alter the counterweight. Re-check to see if
the radius of action. this has reduced the movement and, if
Incomplete balance is shown by the necessary, make further adjustments.
pointer going off zero position when the Now hold the mechanism with the
instrument is turned round. The balance pointer at zero pointing vertically up-
is checked by turning the instrument ward. (fig. 29). Tap lightly and observe if
into four positions and observing whether the pointer remains on zero, then rotate
any movement of the pointer takes 180 degrees until the pointer is pointing
place. If this is noticed, suitable correc- downward, tap again and observe if any
tion must be made. movement off zero takes place. The
correction in this instance takes the
12b Procedure form of bending the phosphor-bronze
pin on which the counterweight is
mounted. Once more it will be neces-
Disconnect the mechanism from the sary to determine the direction of bend-
calibration stand and remove it from the ing by exerting slight pressure on the
buzzer frame. Hold the mechanism at counterweight with the fingertip. Bend-
eye level, test dial to the front, and ing should take place in a plane at right
pointer horizontal, and check that the angles to the axis of the rocking shaft.
pointer is exactly on zero. If not, Sketch shows clearly the direction in
remove and re-set. Now turn the
mechanism round 180 degrees, and ob-
serve the position of the pointer. Tap
gently while noting this.
If the pointer has moved off zero by
too great an amount, it will be necessary
to adjust the position of the counter-
weight. First touch the counterweight
lightly with the finger tip to ascertain
in which direction the correction is to
be made, then support the pin and
counterweight with the finger, loosen
the screw, move the counterweight a
little in the appropriate direction and
retighten the screw. The screw should
be kept at the top of the counterweight.
which this should be made. No attempt
should be made to bend the pin either
to left or to right as this will only disturb
other adjustments. After bending, re-
check and, if necessary, carry out any
further adjustments.
Having completed these two opera-
tions individually, the instrument should
be further checked as follows :
Hold the mechanism at eye level with
the pointer on zero and horizontal.
Turn the mechanism 90 degrees, tap,
and check position of pointer. Turn a
further 90 degrees, check again ; a
further 90 degrees checking, and finally
back into the original position. If the
variation at any point is too great, the
above individual tests must be repeated.
Usually this is not necessary.
16
13 Calibration and adjust- With a good diaphragm properly set
at 1,000 ft./min., no minus reading
ment (contd.) should ever be noticed at 2,000 ft./min.
13a Calibration at 2,000 ft. min. It will be evident from the construction
of the instrument, that to shorten the
descent effective length of the calibrating springs
Re-connect to the inclined manometer will make the pointer go back, so that
tube, and set the buzzer. Check the no amount of working with the screws
previous calibration at 1,000 ft./min. will alter a reading to make the pointer
climb and descent, and if any error plus at 2,000 ft./min.
should be present, repeat the previous After obtaining a satisfactory calibra-
operation. If it were properly carried tion at 2,000 ft./min., re-check at 1,000
out, this should not be necessary. ft./min. descent. (It is the rule after
Now calibrate at 2,000 ft./min. Let us each calibration to return to the previous
take descent first, but there is no advan- one and check if it has altered.) If the
tage in taking one side before the other. reading at 1,000 ft./min. descent should
Increase the pressure and bring the have become a minus one as a result of
liquid in the column to the appropriate removing a plus error at 2,000 ft./min.
value for the metering unit of the instru- by adjustment of the second screw,
ment under test. Maintain at this value. return to 2,000 ft./min., release the
second screw and re-calibrate at 2,000
If the pointer reads 2,000 exactly,
using the third screw (fig. 30). (The
proceed to the next test point without
making any adjustments. It is unlikely,
however, that this will be the case since
the positions of the calibrating screws
have been altered during dismantling.
If the pointer indicates a plus reading
at 2,000 ft./min., gently screw in the
second screw from the back of the upper
portion of the calibration bracket. The
screw will then depress the upper
calibrating spring towards the head of
the calibrating stem, which should fit
truly into the hole in the spring. The
spring will be depressed until it reaches
the head of the calibrating stem, when
the position of the pointer will be
affected. Depression should continue
until the pointer is moved back exactly
to 2,000 ft./min. Several turns of the
screw may be necessary to achieve this, first screw is seldom used because of a
and great care must be taken as a slip tendency to disturb the calibration at
of the screwdriver might damage the 1,000 ft./min.) The pointer should be
diaphragm. brought right on by depressing this
An important point must be made screw. Now re-check at 1,000 ft./min.,
clear here, and that is that the pressure descent and it should be observed that
on the calibrating spring occasioned by the minus error at this point has dis-
a screw being tightened exerts a corre- appeared.
sponding pressure on the diaphragm, There will now be satisfactory calibra-
and since the diaphragm is connected to tion at 1,000 and 2,000 ft./min., descent.
the inclined column, the level of the
liquid in the column will be affected.
When any change in the position of a 13b Calibration at 3,000ft /min.
screw is being made, therefore, the level descent
of the liquid must be watched and
adjusted all the time to maintain it at Now proceed to 3,000 ft./min. descent
the correct value. (still leaving the climb side to be dealt
17
 with later). If the reading is correct, ings should as far as practicable be left
proceed to the next test point without with the minimum obtainable error.
adjustment.
If there should be a plus error, screw
in the fifth screw from the fixed end of 13d Calibration on climb side
the calibration bracket until it touches
the spring, and by compressing it bring If calibration has been satisfactorily
the pointer right on the 3,000 ft./min. carried out on the descent side, we may
mark. Now return and check at 2,000. now proceed to effect similar calibration
If the 2,000 ft./min. reading should have on the climb side. Procedure is iden-
gone minus, return to 3,000, release the tical with the exception that the screws
fifth screw and calibrate at 3,000 using on the lower side of the calibration
the sixth screw instead. Return and re- bracket are employed and these are all
check at 2,000 ft./min. operated by a tommy bar owing to their
If the reading at 3,000 showed a minus inaccessibility to a screwdriver (fig. 31).
error, it is necessary to return to 2,000
and recalibrate at that point, taking
advantage of the tolerance permitted,
to leave the reading a little plus.

13c Calibration at 4,000 ft. /min.

descent
Bring the level of the liquid to the
equivalent of 4,000 ft./min. If the
pointer is correct, once more no further
adjustments will be called for. If it
shows a plus error, remove this by
adjusting the position of the ninth
screw. This can be done with impunity
because there is no higher test point to
be considered. The seventh, eighth and
ninth screws (and all the screws on the The notes which are given above under
climb side) are operated by a tommy the different headings are equally applic-
bar owing to their inaccessibility to a able and should be used. No additional
screwdriver. instructions are required.
In calibrating on climb, the base of
When the reading at 4,000 has been the head of the calibrating stem comes
brought right on, return and re-check into contact with the lower spring, and
at 3,000. If it is found that the calibra- the result is similar to the action during
tion at 4,000 has caused the pointer to descent.
minus at 3,000, return to 4,000 and re-
adjust the ninth screw until the read-
ing at 4,000 is just a little bit plus, but 14 Re-assembly
still, of course, within the permitted
tolerance. This will have the effect of Remove the stopper fitted over the
improving the reading at 3,000. metering unit and give the calibrating
If the reading at 4,000 should be minus, screws a touch of Bakelite varnish so
it is necessary to return to 3,000 and that they will not slacken under vibra-
re-calibrate, leaving the reading at this tion. Make sure that a new paper washer
point a little more plus. The tolerance has been fitted to the nipple inside the
limits of the specification should always case, otherwise the joint between the
be spread evenly so that there is ample nipple and the metering unit will not be
scope for adjustment. airtight. This should be done earlier as
Don't, however, make a practice of Bakelite varnish takes 24 hours to dry.
leaving readings at various test points a Confirm also that a new leather washer
little plus to avoid a possible minus has been fitted, or that the old one has
error at the next test point. All read- been properly treated with castor oil.
18
Check that the gauze filter in the nipple If the old glass is being used again, rinse
is clear of foreign matter. it in benzine and remove all traces of
Fit the mechanism into the case, with previous use, and polish carefully on
the locating pin in the mechanism plate both sides to remove finger marks.
engaging the slot in the case. Secure the After the glass, the outer snap ring is
metering unit to the back of the case by fitted. This must be a good tight fit.
the three screws. Touch them with Bring the two ends together in the
Bakelite varnish to ensure no leakage of correct groove at the bottom of the dial,
air past them into the case. and then run the thumbs round the
Fit the 54-tooth wheel between the edge of the case coaxing the snap ring
zero stem wheel and the pinion in the down into position. If the snap ring is
case. Take care not to disturb the setting too loose there will be a leakage of air
as shown by the mark on the 38-tooth round the edge of the glass.
wheel while doing this. Replace the The two ends of the snap ring should
spigot, making sure it is seated well lie together when the ring is in position.
down into the wheel. Secure in position If there is a gap, a tighter ring must be
with the countersunk screw. fitted.
Fit the snap ring to secure the mechan-
ism to the case. Place the two ends in 15 Check for leak
the slots on the mechanism plate and
press the spring down all round into its Connect the assembled instrument to
groove with a screwdriver. the inclined manometer and blow
Fit luminised dial and fix by the two through the vent until the liquid is
dial screws. Mount the luminised pointer forced up the vertical column to a
right on zero. If the pointer has been position equivalent to 280 mms. of
re-luminised it must have been correctly water. By means of a clip, grip the tube
re-balanced also. Fit the inner snap ring and maintain this pressure for about
assembly, making sure that the locating half a minute. If any leak is present, the
pin in the ring is properly fitted into the level of the liquid will fall. If the altera-
slot in the case. tion in level is within the limit laid down
Fit retaining ring and a new gasket. by the specification, then it may be
Give the gasket a rub with castor oil assumed that the case is sufficiently air-
before inserting. This helps to preserve tight, and the instrument can be passed
the rubber and assists in making a good for a bell jar test.
airtight joint. The gasket should be Where a leak is indicated, confirm
about an inch longer than the circum- first of all that the clip and all mano-
ference of the retaining ring. Pack in meter fittings are quite tight, and If
with the point of tweezers (fig. 32). If examination of these confirms that the
leakage is in the instrument, open the
clip to allow the liquid to be restored to
normal level, and disconnect the instru-
ment. Re-check the external screws for
tightness, see that the outer snap ring
is tight round the glass, and examine the
case for cracks. If this examination still
fails to locate the source of the leakage,
the instrument can be reconnected to
the manometer and the pressure re-
stored, and a few drops of water or light
oil applied through a fountain-pen filler
to the points mentioned, when bubbles
should indicate the presence of the leak.

16 Bell jar test

it should bulge upward a little in places,
this will disappear when the glass is This test is an independent check on
pressed on. This is the next operation. the accuracy of the calibration of the
19
 instrument and is made by placing the recorded is compared with the figure
indicator completely cased up and in the first column of the table on
checked for leak in a frame along with page 30, and any error in the instru-
the sub-standard sensitive altimeter, ment under test is read off at once.
coupling to a buzzer, connecting to a This is repeated for the other test
vacuum pump and covering with a bell points with appropriate adjustments of
jar. the control valve and of the number of
To check on climb, the buzzer is revolutions of the altimeter hand.
operated and air is generally extracted As a rule test specifications lay down
from under the bell jar. The control the limits of pressure under which this
valve is adjusted until the pointer of test has to be made.
the instrument under test indicates
1000 ft./min. climb exactly. The hands 17 Tests and tolerances
of the sensitive altimeter should now
be rotating smoothly. The complete tests to be carried out,
When the long hand of the altimeter and the tolerance limits for calibration,
passes the zero position on the dial, balance, leak etc. have not, in general,
the stop watch is operated and when been quoted in the above notes. This
the hand returns to zero after one information should be abstracted from
complete revolution (= !,000 ft.) the the specification to which the instru-
watch is stopped. The time in seconds ments are being repaired.

20
ILLUSTRATIONS OF PARTS REQUIRED TO
BRING UP TO DATE OLD TYPE INSTRUMENTS

Earlier type rate of climb case will differ from the present type
(unless a change has been made during
indicator an intervening repair). Supplies of the
In June 1942 a minor modification was earlier type of case are no longer avail-
made in the construction of the instru- able for replacements.
ments, to permit them to be used on Fortunately the remedy is simple and
pressure-cabin aircraft. indeed desirable. A new-type case should
It is possible that some of these earlier be used along with the special pressure-
instruments are still in service. The cabin-type glass (which the case is milled
change was made round about serial to take) and the adjusting pinion should
number 16750/41. also be replaced.
Should any instruments be received The instrument will then be converted
for repair which bear earlier serial to the latest pattern. The case, glass
numbers it should be noted that the and pinion are shown above.
21
 TECHNICAL NOTES
Zero setting mechanism
After some little time in service, the
diaphragm and other working parts
settle down, and tend to produce a
slight position error of the pointer at
zero. To avoid the necessity for remov-
ing the glass and resetting the pointer,
a zero setting mechanism is provided.
While this is designed so that the move-
ment of the pointer effected by it is
limited in character, yet the risk is also
present of it being used to correct errors
which may arise in adjustment or calibra-
tion, and this risk must be guarded
against. that any movement of the stem will
The mechanism consists of a pinion cause a corresponding movement of the
located in one corner of the case, compensating plate and thus vary the
operated by a small screwdriver. This position of the diaphragm slightly, This,
arrangement is to avoid disturbance of by action through the link and the rock-
the setting in flight. The pinion is ing shaft, will alter the position of the
geared to a 54-tooth idler wheel which pointer.
is held in position by a spigot and
countersunk screw. The teeth of this
wheel in turn engage a 36-tooth wheel Use of zero adjustment
assembled on the zero adjusting stem. mechanism
The stem passes through the mech-
anism body and is held in position by a When using the zero adjustment
taper pin (fig. 33). Two washers keep it mechanism to correct a slight error at
zero, the pointer should not simply be
brought to zero and left at that. A
check should be made to determine
whether any previous adjustment has
been carried out. It is obvious that an
accumulation of adjustments suggests
some fault in the calibration which will
not be corrected by bringing the pointer
on zero.
Therefore, first of all take a small
screwdriver and turn the zero setting
mechanism to its point of minimum
effect. This will reveal the total error
which it is necessary to correct. If it
is small, remove it by adjusting the
position of the stem. If, however, it is
very large, then test the calibration at
the various points before returning the
instrument to service.
Failure to understand the limits and
friction tight. The stem is placed eccen- the correct use of the zero setting
trically on a shoulder. This is more mechanism causes many instruments to
clearly seen in fig. 34. It will be evident be reported unserviceable.
22
Calibration and adjustment in each group can be employed. Calibra-
tion involves determining which screw
Satisfactory calibration can only be in each group gives the best results,
achieved by a certain amount of trial because in addition to their primary
and error. This is due to the varying effect on the reading at the point under
characteristics of the diaphragm which test, they have a secondary effect on the
cannot be predetermined. readings at previous test points. This
It is not practicable to produce a is made clear in the notes on Procedure.
large number of diaphragms of the It has been found that the best cali-
correct flexibility without external bration is obtained when the top screws
influence being necessary to harness the in each group can be used, that is, the
movement, hence the diaphragm is third, sixth and ninth screws. This, of
designed and constructed so that it has course, is not always practicable.
a freedom in excess of functional re- The upper calibrating spring comes
quirements. This enables calibration to into play during descent, and the lower
be effected by restraining the excess one during climb.
movement. This restraint, however, Calibration is one part of repair work
does not come into operation until the where logical study of the actions and
2,000 ft./min. point is reached. reactions can repay a hundredfold.
It will be seen, therefore, that if a There is nothing supremely difficult
mechanism cannot calibrate satisfac- about it. There are no secrets which are
torily at 2,000 ft./min. because of large not unfolded. The problems likely to be
minus readings, without the restricting encountered are described as fully as
influences, a faulty diaphragm is indi- possible. But it is usually during cali-
cated. In repair work this possibility bration that previous omissions become
does not arise to the same extent, as evident, and due attention to the cau-
the selection of the diaphragm for tions give in the earlier part of this hand-
original assembly has been carefully book will avoid the disappointments
carried out, but a fault occasionally and delays which would arise at this
develops in use, and produces similar stage if they had been neglected.
effects. It is impossible in these brief notes to
Movement of the diaphragm is con- cover every possible contingency, but
trolled from 2,000 ft./min. by the action the principles are laid down and the
of two calibrating springs located be- interpretation and application of them
tween the arms of the calibration bracket. must be left to the individual. A certain
The movement of the springs in turn is amount of experience will be necessary
restricted by the selection of the position before complete confidence can be
of the screws on the bracket. The effec- expected.
tive length of the spring is determined
by the point of contact of the screws, Diaphragm dive overload stop
and calibration consists of finding the
most suitable position for these screws A dive overload stop is fitted to
which will permit the diaphragm to prevent damage to the diaphragm
expand and contract in such a way that should it be subjected during descent to
the pointer registers within the terms sudden air-pressure differences much in
of the specification being used. excess of the maximum it is designed to
In practice, only about three screws register. It consists of a little brass stop
on each arm are required, but nine are fixed to the underside of the calibration
provided to give an ample reserve of bracket so placed that when the dia-
alternative positions. The screws are phragm expands, the centre piece touches
formed into three groups. The first, it and further expansion is prevented
second and third screws from the (fig. 35). It is secured by a screw fitted
mounting end of the bracket are used through an elongated slot which per-
for calibrating at 2,000 ft./min., the mits a measure of adjustment of position
fourth, fifth and sixth for 3,000 ft./min., to be effected. The position of the stop,
and the seventh, eighth and ninth for therefore, determines the limit of ex-
4,000 ft./min. Not more than one screw pansion of the diaphragm. To prevent
23
 (a) The diaphragm
The pointer, through the rocking
shaft and the link, measures the expan-
sion and contraction of the diaphragm.
Very small pressure changes have to be
registered, therefore the diaphragm has
to be of an extremely sensitive nature.
It is constructed of a very fine brass foil
made to a stringent specification. The
formed blanks are selected and specially
graded with great care before assembly.
The diaphragm is connected by a
short length of small bore tubing to the
metering unit. The loop observed in
undue strain on the diaphragm, the the tubing is simply to permit slight
overload point is taken as being dia- accommodation in fitting. It will be
metrically opposite to the zero position evident that the diaphragm movement
on the dial, that is, in a position approxi- is affected by :—
mately equivalent to 4,800 ft./min., and (a) The air pressure inside the dia-
the stop has to be set so that the pointer phragm (received direct from the
will not exceed this under any condition nipple through the tubing) in
of use. combination with
(6) the air pressure outside the dia-
phragm (received through the
Diaphragm climb overload stop metering unit), and
The climb overload stop consists of a (c) the mechanical control exercised to
screw which passes through the dia- regulate the movement and permit
phragm mounting piece into the dia- calibration to specified limits.
phragm, and is held in position by a small (This last point is dealt with more
hexagon nut (fig. 36). Its function is to fully in the section on Calibration.)
A fine gauze filter is located in the
nipple to prevent as far as possible the
ingress of dust, sand, or other foreign
matter in the diaphragm or meter ing unit.

(b) The metering unit

The design of a suitable metering unit
(fig. 37) is based on several physical

prevent the diaphragm from collapsing

completely at overload.

Diaphragm and metering unit

For servicing purposes these are con-
sidered as a single unit, but both have a
separate function and it is desirable to
understand these.
24
considerations. It should be remem- at a constant temperature. The instru-
bered that the reading of the instrument ment will therefore show a positive
depends on the pressure difference be- error for decreasing pressures. In the
tween the inside and outside of the case of an orifice leak, the pressure
diaphragm, that is, on the pressure difference for a given rate of climb
difference across the metering unit. decreases with decreasing pressure, and
The metering unit is therefore required the error is therefore of an opposite sign
to give a definite pressure difference for to the error caused by a capillary leak
any given rate of climb under different alone. A combination of the two types can
conditions of temperature and pressure. be chosen to give a satisfactory pressure
In general a metering unit requires compensation at a given temperature.
compensation to effect this result. Com- With regard to the temperature com-
pensation for changes in pressure at a pensation, the pressure difference across
given temperature is spoken of as the capilliry leak depends on the vis-
altitude compensation, and compensa- cosity of the air, which is proportional
tion for changes in temperature is to the absolute temperature, and there-
spoken of as temperature compensation. fore decreases with decreasing tempera-
The compensation is often mechanical ture. In the case of an orifice leak the
in nature, but in the K.B.B. instrument pressure difference depends on the
it is obtained without any moving parts density of the air, and will therefore
by the combination of two basic types of increase with decrease of temperature.
leaks, (a) an orifice leak, and (b) a It is seen that this effect is opposite to
capillary tube leak. We will now con- the effect of temperature on the capil-
sider the performance of these separ- lary leak, so that compensation can be
ately, dealing first with altitude com- obtained by a combination of the two
pensation and then with temperature types of leaks.
compensation. In the K.B.B. instrument, the sizes of
In the case of a capillary leak, it can the capillary and orifice leak are chosen
be shown that the pressure difference so that the readings of the instrument
across the leak for a constant rate of will remain correct over a wide range
climb increases with decreasing pressure, of temperature and altitude conditions.

25
 CALIBRATION APPARATUS
The successful calibration of the rate able. The apparatus comprises inclined
of climb indicator requires the provision manometer, rubber tubing, T connec-
of a calibration stand and a leak-testing tions, bellows, clip, wooden frame.
apparatus, together with a bell jar, Accurate levelling is essential and ade-
frame, stop watch and sensitivealtimeter. quate provision must be made for this
THE FRAME need only be a simple by fitting two spirit levels and adjust-
wooden erection capable of holding one able feet during construction.
or more rate of climb indicators, and in Inclination of the tube of the mano-
addition a sensitive altimeter. It should meter allows greater movement of
be provided with a buzzer or other liquid for the same difference of pressure
means of producing slight vibration to than would be possible in a standard
overcome the fictional resistance of the vertical manometer, thus permitting a
mechanisms. more open scale.
THE BELL JAR. must be sufficiently The angle of inclination may be about
large to cover the frame comfortably. 12 degrees. The magnification of the
ANY STOPWATCH of good quality scale varies with the cosecant of the
will be satisfactory. The duration of each angle with the horizontal, and in the case
test is normally comparatively short so of 12 degrees would be nearly five times
that only a. large error would affect the (actually 4 8I) giving approximately an
readings. inch on the scale for every Five milli-
THE SENSITIVE ALTIMETER should meters of water. It will be evident from
be specially calibrated within plus or a table of cosecants that one degree
minus 10 ft., tested at every 1,000 ft. difference of angle will make a substan-
from minus 1,000 ft. to plus 10,000 ft. tial alteration to the scale, so this angle
As the Instrument will not be used for should be measured carefully.
test purposes above this limit, accuracy
at higher points can safely be sacrificed The scale is graduated in millimetres,
to produce special accuracy at the lower taking advantage of the magnification
points. factor provided by the inclination of the
The remaining items of apparatus are tube, and should be set so that the
somewhat special in character and it is divisions are at right angles to the glass
necessary to deal with them in greater tubing. The reading is taken where the
detail. meniscus of the liquid touches the line.
It is useful to draw a horizontal line in
Inclined manometer calibra- red ink on the scale directly behind the
tube. This is not evident in the portion
tion stand where there is no liquid, but it is greatly
A calibration stand of the type illus- magnified by the liquid and facilitates
trated (fig. 38) will be found very suit- readings by giving the liquid the appear-
ance of red fluid.
Owing to the very light pressures
employed, no special precautions need
be taken against leakage. The cistern
should be conveniently placed on one
side of the frame so that the level of the
liquid can be adjusted to bring it about
half-way along the inclined portion of
the tube.
The capacity of the bellows required
can only be determined accurately by
experiment since it will depend upon
the nature of the apparatus used. It has
been found, however, that two old
diaphragm assemblies from Mark XIVA
altimeters mounted in series usually
26
give sufficient variation to operate the necessary on the calibration frame. Once
column under normal conditions. the group has been ascertained, then
In practice a light oil (such as Duck- calibration can proceed, provided the
ham's S U 12) is employed in preference scale readings for the calibration frame
to water, but the scale may still be cali- have already been worked out.
brated in mms. of water by allowing For the leak-testing apparatus, a
for the difference in specific gravities. standard leak is required, and this must
The level of the liquid in the canister conform to exceptionally close limits.
is adjusted until the level in the tube The makers of the indicators can provide
under atmospheric pressure touches the such a standard leak against a special
zero line. order for a comparatively small cost. A
The use of the calibration stand is second one would be required if it were
fully dealt with in the section ' Calibra- intended to test Mark IA in addition to
tion and Adjustment.' Mark IB indicators, since the design of
the former is quite different from that
of the latter.
Leak-testing apparatus The apparatus consists of two U-tubes
It has been mentioned in the Tech- in series as shown in fig. 39. If the
nical Notes that the variable factor in
calibration is the performance of the
diaphragm, and that it is not possible to
predict this.
On the other hand, the characteristics
of the metering unit do not vary in
calibration. They can therefore be
determined in advance and the metering
unit can then be sealed off and the
diaphragm calibrated alone, due allow-
ance being made for the effect which
the unit will have on the mechanism.
This method offers many advantages
and is, in fact, the procedure adopted.
The outstanding benefit is that the
mechanism can then be calibrated with-
out the necessity for being fitted into
an airtight case.
A leak-testing apparatus is required airflow through both leaks is identical,
for this work, but fortunately it is simple then the readings in both tubes will be
and inexpensive to produce. The appara- the same.
tus consists of a standard leak, and a If, however, there is any difference,
means of comparing with it leaks of the pressure will tend to build up in the
unknown values. one and fall off in the other, which will
The rate of climb indicator requires be immediately evident by a difference
a metering unit of a given characteristic in the U-tube readings. The U-tubes
and the purpose of the apparatus is could, therefore, be graduated in such
therefore to grade the metering units a way that this difference could be read
according to the effective size of the off in any convenient scale of units.
orifice and capillary. This is the result which is achieved by
Three grades are employed, and the the apparatus, although to permit easier
leaks are sorted as follows :— comparison the tubes are fitted close to
(1) Those smaller than standard ; one another, and other connections are
(2) those equal to standard ; taken to more convenient and less con-
(3) those larger than standard. spicuous positions behind the panel.
The tolerances of these are, of course, The source of pressure is a pump and a
strictly limited and any which are out- bell jar reservoir. This is required for
side the limits are rejected. For each providing a constant pressure for the
group a different set of scale readings is period of the test, and any other means
27
may not be so successful. The tubes For acceptance the leaks must not
must be so constructed that a vertical only be within plus or minus 2½ mms.
difference of at least 60 millimetres can but the difference between the readings
be measured on the scale. obtained at the two test points must
also not exceed 1 mm.

Setting up
Connect up the apparatus as shown in
To determine the readings for
the sketch (fig. 39). It can be built in a calibration-frame scale
manner similar to the calibration frame.
It will probably be more advantageous Select half a dozen good mechanisms
to have the inclined portion of the tube which have leaks corresponding to one
at a less acute angle to the horizontal of the three groups already mentioned,
than in the case of the calibration frame, as determined by the leak-testing appar-
because the pressure difference to be atus—say the standard leak.
measured is greater. Connect these in turn to the calibra-
Prepare a scale for the inclined tube, tion frame and calibrate them in accor-
marking it in divisions equivalent to dance with the standard practice de-
millimetres, taking into account the scribed in pages 13-18 using the following
angle of inclination of the tube. The zero ' average ' set of readings :—
should be in the middle and the range 1,000 ft./min. ... 5 mms. water.
should extend to about plus and minus 2,000 ' 10
30 millimetres. Fit this scale convenient 3,000 20
to the inclined tubes. Fill the cisterns 4,000 30
with a light oil such as Duckham's SUI2 After this provisional calibration,
until the liquid reaches the zero mark. case up the mechanisms, paying special
If the apparatus is open to atmospheric attention to the question of case leak.
pressure the level in both columns will Care must be taken that the risk of error
be the same. Connect the leak under due to case leak is reduced to the
test. absolute minimum.
Now place one of the instruments
under a bell jar with a sub-standard
sensitive altimeter and check as follows :
Procedure Adjust the pressure until the pointer
Bring the level of the column con- registers 1,000 ft./min., and control the
nected to the standard leak to 30 mms. flow so that the pointer is kept exactly
pressure, and take the corresponding at this point. The long pointer of the
reading in the column connected to the sensitive altimeter should be rotating
leak under test. Now apply vacuum and steadily, indicating a constant rate of
bring the reading to the 30 mm. mark climb.
at the other end. Again take the appro- When the pointer passes the zero
priate reading. position, set the stop watch in motion
and when the pointer completes one
revolution (equal to 1,000 ft.) stop the
Tolerance limits watch.
The error in the instrument (if any)
The leak is then sorted out according can be found at once by reference to the
to the results obtained, in the following table on page 30. For example, if the
manner :— stop watch indicates 61 seconds for
(1) Leaks that are within —½ to 1,000 ft. it is clear that the instrument
—2½ mms. (larger than standard) ; is recording high and from the tables
we find there is a plus error of 16 ft./
(2) leaks that are within plus or min. This means that the actual rate of
minus ½ mm. (equal to standard) ; climb of the instrument when it records
(3) leaks that are within plus ½ to 1,000 ft./min. is 984 ft./min.
plus 2½ mms. (smaller than stan- Now check the readings at 2,000,
dard). 3,000 and 4,000 ft./min. in the same
28
fashion. Repeat for the remaining five manometer readings. Repeat With the
instruments. remaining five instruments.
Connect up the first instrument to the There will now be six sets of readings
calibration stand and adjust the pressure for the inclined column scale. These
until the pointer indicates the true should be averaged and the resultant
speed obtained at 1,000 ft./min. under set of pressures accepted as representing
test in the bell jar by the stop-watch the scale readings for an instrument
method, and note the corresponding with a standard leak.
reading on the manometer. Proceed to The same procedure will permit
2,000 ft./min. and to the other test similar scale readings to be obtained for
points and record the corresponding leaks of the larger and smaller sizes.

29
TABLE FOR USE WITH STOP WATCH FOR DETERMINING
ERROR IN RATE OF CLIMB INDICATORS (See Page 20)
 SMALL TOOLS
Above is illustrated a typical kit of 5. Long-nosed pliers.
small tools containing items found 6. Top cutting nippers for trimming
useful for the repair of K.B.B. Rate of new outer snap rings to size, etc.
Climb Indicators. The majority are
standard articles readily available. In a 7. Penknife for removing outer snap
few instances a little modification is ring, etc.
required. T wrenches for holding broaches or
8.
The special tools can be prepared small taps. For general work, one
without difficulty in any small workshop, 9. wrench is sufficient.
and their production is encouraged in
view of the valuable purpose which they 10. Pin tongs for holding small broaches.
serve. In these instances additional 11. Clip for pinching rubber tubing of
guiding notes have been appended. calibration apparatus.
The tools shown comprise :— 12. Smooth-cut pillar file about 6" long.
1. Special key for metering unit secur- 13. Pointed rod for removing inner
ing screw. Used when dismantling snap ring (see fig. 1).
or re-assembling the unit (see 14.
fig. 19 and note below). Range of small broaches for use
15.
2. Hand lever for holding case pinion . with pin tongs.
against tension of spring when re- 16.
moving cross pin holding zero 17. Sector key for moving sector in
adjusting stem during dismantling relation to rocking shaft (see fig.
of case assembly (see fig. 6 and note 25 and note below).
below.)
18. Closed 6BA spanner for tightening
3. General purposes screwdriver. or slackening nut on stiffening
4. Light hammer. plate (see fig. 10).
31
 Special-purpose screwdriver and may be used as an alternative to
19. box spanner for adjusting and the tongs shown at item 10. It is
20. locking climb stop (see figs. 16, not essential to have both.
28 and note below).
30. Combined pivot file and burnisher.
2 1 . Tommy bar for movement of cali-
bration bracket screws (see figs. 11 31. Half-round file.
and 31). 32. Rubber suction pad for removing
22. Special pivot-straightening tweezers obstinate glasses, fitted- with a
(see fig. 23 and note on page 33). small metal handle to allow greater
23. General-purposes tweezers. purchase.
24. Caliper tweezers for holding pinions 33. Camel-hairbrush.
while cleaning with brush, etc. (see 34. Watchmaker's four-row bristle
note below). brush.
25. Watchmaker's screwdriver.
35. Glass brush.
26. Elder pith for cleaning pivots.
27. Pegwood for cleaning bearing holes In addition to the items shown, a
and jewels. Orange stick if avail- watchmaker's eyeglass (2½" or 3") is
able makes the most satisfactory indispensable and a standard staking tool
pegwood. with set of punches is also required. A
supply of cleaning fluid in a suitable con-
28. Small hand vice. tainer must always be at hand. For test
29. Double ended pin tongs with two purposes an old dial is required along
collets for holding broaches. These with a properly balanced pointer.

32
 SPECIAL TOOLS
The following notes amplify the in- Pivot-straightening tweezers
formation which may be obtained from
the photograph on page 31. It has not Any-small size tweezers can be con-
been considered necessary to give verted for this purpose. The nose
dimensional sketches because of the should be filed down to give a flat
substantial tolerances permissible in surface, then the width of the blades
construction. No difficulty will be reduced to allow them to enter the
experienced in making up any of the cavity in the mechanism plate. The
tools in question. cavity is just over 0 · I " in diameter. It
would probably give additional grip on
Key for metering-unit-securing the pivot if the inside of the tweezer
blades were slightly grooved.
screw
Made from ¼" dia. steel rod with two
keyways to fit into the slot in the head Climb-stop screwdriver and
of the screw which is 1/32" wide, cut spanner
away in the centre to clear the capillary.
• A simpler tool can be made from a This combination comprises a box
screwdriver ground down and cut to spanner to fit a 10BA nut and a long-
avoid the capillary as before. bladed screwdriver, fine enough to enter
the spanner and engage the slot on the
Hand lever for case pinion head of the screw, which is approximately
0·11" in diameter.
May be constructed from an old screw- The length of spanner and screwdriver
driver by heating the blade, bending at can be varied to suit individual require-
right angles, then sharpening. ments. A milled head on the spanner
affords additional purchase.
Sector key
Cut to fit over the tail of the sector Caliper tweezers
and made to accommodate the shoulder
on the rocking shaft. The dimensions It is better to select blunt-nosed
are not critical but the key must be a tweezers. They are prepared by drilling
good fit to get adequate leverage without a small hole in both blades so that the
distorting either sector or rocking shaft. pivots of a pinion will rest comfortably.

33
 INSTALLATION
To install Rate of Climb Indicators Mount the instrument in the board
Mark IA, Mark IB and Mark IB*, cut a from the rear and secure in place with
hole in the instrument board and drill three screws and locknuts.
three holes, as shown in the left-hand Connect the nipple on the back of the
sketch. case to the static side of the pitot tube
through a T connection.

RATE OF CLIMB INDICATOR.

34
 LISTS OF SPARES
In the following pages will be found lists, it is sufficient to quote the part
lists of the principal spares which it is number when ordering, but it is also
recommended should be carried for the helpful if the serial number of the
adequate servicing of Rate of Climb instrument can be given.
Indicators Mark IB*. These parts are Adherence to these lists is encour-
usually in stock and can be had from the aged, as special fixtures are frequently
makers practically on demand. required to assemble certain of the
In the event of desiring spares which parts, and these tools are not generally
are illustrated but not included in the available outside the factory.

35
Recommended list of spare parts for
former and also present types of
rate of climb indicators Mark IB*
Rocking shaft assembly . . . . . SA 309
Diaphragm and metering unit assembly . . SA 1432
Calibration bracket assembly . . . . SA 1426
Mechanism plate jewel assembly . . . SA 1924
Hand assembly (not luminised)† . . . SA29II
Dial (not luminised)† . . . . . P 1368
Glass sealing gasket . . . . . P 6023
Gear spigot . . . . . . P 3855
Outer snap ring . . . . . . P 4196
Spigot mounting zero setting wheel . . P 1541
Gasket between metering unit and nipple . . P 6025
Small jewel mounted . . . . . P 3178
Handstaff Pinion . . . . . . P 1621
Washer P 5650
Calibrating spring . . . . P 4670
Large jewel mounted . . . . P 3177
Handstaff jewel setting assembly . . . SA 1922
Link P 2526
Retaining ring . . . . . . P 4358
† When a hand assembly is obtained unluminised, care should be taken to see that
it is property balanced after it has been luminised, otherwise errors will be intro-
duced in the performance of the indicator. When ordering for stock the hand
assembly and dial should be obtained unluminised by quoting the part numbers
shown in the list. If for immediate use, however, they may be obtained luminised
by requisitioning as follows:
Hand assembly, luminised . . . SA 2912
Dial, luminised SA 3449
A dial can be supplied with serial number engraved complete if the appropriate
number is given when ordering.

SCREWS
Counterweight securing screw . P 1025
Calibration arm securing screw . P 998
Calibration bracket adjustment screws . P 1009
Do. Do. . P 1010
Do. Do. . P 1011
Dial screw . . . . . . P 1001
Zero setting spigot mounting screw . . P 1014
Screw for securing metering unit to case . P 1015
Bridge mounting screw . P 1017
36
 SCREWS (Contd.)
Jewel clamp screw . . P 1018
Diaphragm plate mounting screw . P 1019
Calibrating spring mounting screw . P 1021
Calibration bracket mounting screw . . P 1022
Dive overload stop securing screw . P 1023
Stiffening bracket mounting screw . P 862
Do. Do. . P 984
Diaphragm mounting screw . P 999

The following parts are applicable only to the former type of indicator:—
Case assembly . . . . . . SA26I2
Glass P 5956

It is recommended to use instead the new toughened glass

P5988 which is interchangeable, and which will withstand a
higher pressure difference than P 5956.

The following parts are applicable only to the present type of indicator:—
Case assembly . . . . . . SA 2635
Glass . . . . . . P 5982

NOTE.—Bearing pins P 4018 and P 4019 are not included in the above lists. These
can be made up as required from Nichrome wire 0·014" and 0·008" diameter
respectively. We have also omitted such items as nuts, washers, etc., of standard
BA sizes.

37
RATE OF CLIMB INDICATOR MARK IB*

38
RATE OF CLIMB INDICATOR MARK IB*

39
 RATE OF CLIMB INDICATOR MARK IB*
(OLD TYPE)

VIEW FROM REAR - CASE SECTIONED

40
 RATE OF CLIMB INDICATOR MARK IB*
(MODERN TYPE)

VIEW FROM REAR CASE SECTIONED

41