- ~- '"

!to. ''"'~,~''"'' ;-.

FHB-23-1
FLIGHT MANUAL ,
SU[P~LLeMENT ,
USAF SERIES
,
-? ,
AIRCRAFT
,
This publication supplements FHB-23-1. Reference
to this supplement will be made on the title page of
the basic manual by personnel responsible for main-
taining the publication in current status.
,
7 February 1962

1. PURPOSE
,
To provide information on airplane control surface deflections during
captive-flight checks of the MH-96 adaptive flight control system
installed on Airplane AF56-6672. ,
2. GENERAL

During captive-flight checks of this system, transient control surface

,
deflections have caused concern regarding the possibility of exceeding
~ captive flight limitations for control surface deflection. '-
3. INSTRUCTIONS

;~ Test data concerning transient control surface deflections occuring ,~

during captive-flight checks of the MH-96 system has been analyzed.
It has been determined that the maximum control surface deflections
encountered are well within the limitations given in Section V under
"Captive Flight Limitations."
"
END ,
,
s ,
 T.O.1X-15-1
(FORMERLYFHB-23-1)

AIR FORCE Kerr Litho, Culver City, Cal 5 April 62-250 (North American Aviation)
29 DECEMBER 1961
 T.O. 1X-15-1

Reproduction for nonmilitary use of the information or illustrations contained in this publication is not per-
mitted without specific approval of the issuing service. The policy for use of Classified Publications is established
for the Air Force in AFR 205-1.
INSERT LATEST REVISED PAGES. DESTROY SUPERSEDED PAGES.

LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES NOTE: The portion of the rext affected by the revisions is indicated
by a vertical line in the outer margins of the page.

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES IN THIS PUBLICATION IS 122, CONSISTING OF THE FOLLOWING:

Page Issue
No.

Title .Original
A Original
i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Original .
11Blank . . . . . . . . . . Original
iii thru iv . . . . . . . . . Original
.
1-1 thru 1-47 Original
1-48Blank . . . . . . . . Original .
2-1 thru 2-19
2-20 Blank ...
Original
. . . . Original .
~
.....
..

3-1thru 3-14. . . . . . . original"

4-1 thru 4-11 qrigmal
4-12 Blank. . . . . . . . Origiriiu ....
5-1 thru 6-15 Original 'A:.
5-16Blank . . . . . . . . Original
6-1 thru 6-5 . . . . . . . Original
6-6 Blank Original

/ 0

.The asterisk indicates pages revised, added, or deleted by the current revision.

ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE OBTAINED AS FOLLOWS:

USAF ACTIVITIES - In accordance with Technical Order No. 00-5-2. USAF

I
 T. o. lX-15-1

Section I DESCRIPTION 1-1

Section II NORMAL PROCEDURES 2-1

Section III EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 3-1

'--' I
Section IV AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT 4-1

------- I Section V OPERATING LIMITATIONS 5-1

Section VI FLIGHT CHARACTERISTICS 6-1

'--' I

X15-1-0-5A

Vii
I
 T.O. lX-15-1

This utility Flight Manual is the result of extensive research and analysis

of engineering data. It contains the necessary information ~or safe and_

efficient operation of the X-15 Airplane. Information involving safety

of flight will be disseminated by means of the regular Safety of Flight

Supplement program. You can determine the status of Safety of Flight

Supplements by referring to the Safety of Flight Supplement Index, T. O.

O-l-lA. The title page of the Flight Manual and title block of each Safety

of Flight Supplement should also be checked to determine the effect that

these publications may have on existing Safety of Flight Supplements.

The manual is divided into six separate sections, each containing its

own table of contents. The research program for which this airplane

was designed requires that each individual mission be precisely pre-

planned. Consequently, standard performance data is not included in

this manual. The Flight Manual does not discuss in detail certain com-

plex units installed in the airplane, nor does it necessarily contain

information on the use or operation of test equipment.

iii

I
 T. O. lX-15-1

II
!I
~.~----
II"
II

X-15-1-00-4A

X-15 (Three-View)
iv

I
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section I

SECTION I

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE PAGE

Airplane.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 LaunchSystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-36

Engine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-3 LandingGearSystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-37
Propellant Supply System . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-15 Instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-37
Engine and Propellant Control Helium Inertial All-attitude Flight Data System
System.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-16 (Gyro-stabilized Platform) 1-38
Propellant Pressurization Helium System ... 1-16 Instrumentation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-40
Auxiliary Power Units ................ 1-17
Indicator, Caution, and Warning
Electrical Power Supply Systems . . . . . . . . . 1-22 Light System ... .................. 1-41

Hydraulic Power Supply Systems . ........ 1-26

Canopy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-41
Flight Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
EjectionSeat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-43
WingFlap System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-36
Speed Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-36 Auxiliary Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-46

AIRPLANE. carried internally. The airplane is not designed for

normal ground take-off, but is air-launched by a B-52
The X-15 is a single-place research airplane, specifi- Airplane. The landing gear consists of a dual-wheel
cally designed to obtain data on flight at extremely high nose gear and two main landing skids. The gear is
altitudes and speeds and on the physiological and psycho- lowered in flight by gravity and air loads.
logical effects of such flight conditions on the pilot.
Built by North American Aviation, Inc, the airplane has AIRPLANE DIMENSIONS.
an inertial all-attitude (gyro-stabilized platform) flight
data system and is powered by one XLR99 liquid- The over-all dimensions of the airplane (in-flight con-
propellant rocket engine. The 25-1/2 degree swept- figuration with gear up and ventral retained) are as
back wing has hydraulically operated flaps on the inboard follows:
trailing edge of each wing panel. All aerodynamic
control surfaces are actuated by irreversible hydraulic Length 49 feet 2 inches
systems. The horizontal stabilizer has a 15-degree Span . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 feet 4 inches
cathedral. The two sections move simultaneously for Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 feet 1 inch
pitch control, differentially for roll control, and in
compound for pitch-roll control. The upper and lower NOTE
vertical stabilizers are in two sections, a movable
outer span for yaw control and a fixed section adjacent In the landing configuration (landing gross
to the fuselage. The lower movable section (ventral) weight and gear down, with specified nose tire
is jettisonable for landing. Each fixed section in- and strut inflation and with ventral jettisoned),
corporates a split-flap speed brake. For changes in height is 11 feet 6 inches.
airplane attitude relative to flight trajectory at altitudes
where aerodynamic controls are relatively ineffective, AIRPLANE GROSS WEIGHT.
the airplane incorporates a ballistic control system,
wherein the metered release of gas through small
rockets in the nose and wing causes the airplane to The approximate launch gross weight of the airplane
move about each axis as required. Two auxiliary (including full internal load and pilot) is 32,900 pounds.
power units drive the airplane hydraulic pumps and ac However, this can vary a few hundred pounds, depending
electrical generators. Fuel for the rocket engine is on the type of instrumentation carried.
1-1
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1. BALL NOSE 19. HYDROGEN-PEROXIDE TANK (ENGINE

2. BALLISTICCONTROL SYSTEM ROCKETS (8) WRBOPUMP PROPELLANT)
3. NOSE GEAR 20. MOVABLE UPPER VERTICAL STABILIZER
4. PITOT HEAD 21. UPPER SPEED BRAKE
S. EJECTION SEAT 22. XLR99-RM-l ENGINE
6. HELIUM TANKS (2) FOR APU PROPELLANT PRESSURIZATION 23. HELIUM TANKS (2) FOR ENGINE PURGE
7. AUXILIARY POWER UNITS (2) 24. MOVABLE HORIZONTAL STABILIZER
8. AIR CONDITIONING AND PRESSURIZATION SYSTEM 2S. LOWER SPEED BRAKE
LIQUID NITRQGEN TANK 26. VENTRAL
9.8-52 PYLON FORWARD ATTACH POINT 27. LANDING GEAR SKID l BOTH SIDES)
10. LIQUID OXYGEN VENT 28. BALLISTIC CONTROL SYSTEM ROCKETS (2)
11. UPPER UHF ANTENNA 29. NO.3 EQUIPMENT COMPARTMENT
12. LIQUID OXYGEN TANK (ENGINE OXIDIZER) 30. LIQUID OXYGEN TANK (ENGINE OXIDIZER) FILLER
13. BALLlSfIC CONTRQL SYSTEM ROCKETS (2) 31. HYDRAULIC SYSTEM RESERVOIRS (2)
14. HELIUM TANK (FOR ENGINE PROPELLANT PRESSURIZATION) 32. HYDROGEN-PEROXIDE TANKS (2) APU AND
IS. HELIUM TANK FOR PRESSURIZATION CONTROL, ENGINE BALLISTIC CONTROL SYSTEMS PROPELLANT
CONTROL, AND ENGINE HYDROGEN PEROXIDE PRESSURIZATION 33. NO.2 EQUIPMENT COMPARTMENT
16. RIGHT-HAND WING FLAP 34. LOWER UHF ANTENNA
17. AMMONIA TANK 35. NO.1 EQUIPMENT COMPARTMENT
X-I5-1-00_1B
18. 8-S2 PYLON REAR ATrACH POINT (BOTH SIDES)

(- ( ( ( ( ( ( ( (

In
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

AffiPLANE SERIAL NUMBERS. circuit is of the continuous-element type, which detects

excessive temperatures anywhere along its length. The
The Air Force serial numbers for X-15 Airplanes system is powered by the battery bus and continuously
covered by this manual are AF56-6670, -6671, and monitors the resistance of the circuit. The resistance
-6672. of the material used in the circuit varies inversely with
temperature and total length of the sensing circuit.
ENGINE. Whenever temperatures in the engine compartment
reach 1l00°F (594°C) or higher, the resistance of the
Thrust is provided by one XLR99 turbo rocket engine. sensing element falls below a preset value because of
It has a single thrust chamber, a two-stage, continuous- the excessive temperature, and the warning system is
igniter starting system, a turbopump, and a gas gen- energized. A placard-type warning light, a system
erator. Propellants are liquid oxygen and anhydrous selector switch, and a test switch are in the cockpit.
ammonia, supplied from the airplane propellant system. For emergency procedures in case of a fire-warning
(See figure 1-6.) The engine is of variable-thrust indication, refer to "Fire or Explosion" in Section m.
design, capable of operating over the range of 50 to
100 percent of full rated thrust. The gas generator Fire-warning Light. An abnormal rise in engine com-
decomposes a monopropellant fuel, 90 percent hydrogen partment temperature is shown by a placard-type
peroxide (H202), to provide a high-pressure gas mix- warning light (70, figure 1-2), on the instrument panel.
ture for driving the turbopump, which in turn drives The light is powered by the primary dc bus and has a
the two centrifugal pumps that supply the propellants to red plastic cap which shows the word "FIRE" when the
the engine. Upon discharge from the pumps, the pro- light is on. The light may be tested by a push-to-test
pellants are delivered to the two igniters and the thrust switch on the instrument panel right wing.
chamber where they are burned. At the first-stage
igniter, the oxygen (in gaseous form) and ammonia are Fire-warning Light Test Button. A fire-warning light
mixed and then ignited by three spark plugs. Liquid and detection circuit test button (30, figure 1-2) is on
oxygen and ammonia, meanwhile, also are routed to the the instrument panel right wing. The button is powered
second-stage igniter. When the pressure created by the by the primary dc bus. When the button is pressed, the
hot gases in the first-stage igniter actuates a pressure fire-warning light should come on, verifying the con-
switch, propellants are allowed to enter the second- tinuity of the detection circuit.
stage igniter. Here, the propellants are mixed and
ignited by the incoming first-stage gases at greatly Engine Compartment Purging System.
increased pressure. When a pressure switch in the
second-stage igniter is actuated, propellants are allowed The engine compartment can be purged by releasing an
to enter the thrust chamber itself. They are again inert gas (helium) under pressure into the area to
mixed and ignited by the gases coming from the second- extinguish a fire or relieve an overheat condition.
stage igniter and build to the tremendous pressures Three cubic feet of helium is stored in two spherical
needed for required thrust. The thrust chamber is containers under 3600 psi pressure. The containers
an assembly of small welded, wire-wound tubes pre- are on either side of the engine compartment in the
formed as segments of the chamber. Before injection left and right wing root fairing tunnels. Either auto-
into the thrust chamber, the ammonia passes through matic or manual release of helium can be selected by
these tubes to cool the chamber. Exhaust gases are the pilot. Because of the location of the two containers
discharged through a venturi-shaped sonic nozzle. adjacent to the engine compartment, any high-
temperature condition in the compartment will affect
ENGINE COMPARTMENT. these containers and create a potential explosion hazard.
As the helium is released into the engine compartment,
The engine compartment, in the extreme aft end of the it inhibits any fire condition and at the same time
fuselage, houses the tubular steel engine mount which eliminates the explosion hazard.
supports the engine and turbopump. The engine com-
partment is completely isolated from the airframe by Helium Release Selector Switch. This three-position
a mono-fire-wall. A large access door is provided in switch (69, figure 1-2), labeled "HE REL SW, " is on
the forward end of the engine compartment for access the left side of the instrument panel. It permits the
to the engine compartment from the hydrogen peroxide pilot to select the type of engine compartment purging
storage tank area. The engine compartment also (either automatic or manual) in case of a fire indication.
houses the instrumentation pick-offs, fire detection
system sensors, and helium release line. A fire seal
The switch is powered by the battery bus. The AUTO
position sets up an entirely automatic sequence if a fire
c:
closes out the compartment and protects against the occurs in the engine compartment, as indicated by
entry of exhaust gases and expelled propellants into illumination of the fire- warning light. The engine is
the engine compartment. For engine compartment shut down, and the helium from the two containers
purging, refer to "Engine Compartment Purging System" outboard of the engine is jettisoned into the engine
in this section. compartment to inhibit the fire or overheat condition
and to prevent overpressurization of the containers by
Engine Compartment Fire Detection System. extreme temperature increase. The OFF position sets
up the fire detection system for illuminating the fire-
warning light only, in case a fire occurs. It will then
A detection circuit is provided to detect and indicate be necessary either to move the switch to ON to release
a fire condition in the engine compartment. This the helium into the engine compartment without affecting
1-3

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65 64 63 62 61 60 59 58 57 56 55 54 53 52 51 50 49 48 47 46 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29
X-15-1-00-5H

( ( ( ( \ (

IU
- J (
( (

1. IGNITION-READY CAUTION LIGHT 41. MIXING CHAMBER TEMPERATURE GAGE

2. ALTIMETER 42. APU SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE
3. AIRSPEED INDICATOR 43. NO. 1 APU HYDROGEN PEROXIDE-LOW CAUTION LIGHT
4. ANGLE-Of-ATTACK INDICATOR 44. CLOCK
5. ACCELEROMETER 45. NO.1 HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGE
6. ATTITUDE INDICATOR 46. NO.1 APU SWITCH
7. AZIMUTH INDICATOR 47. LIQUID OXYGEN BEARING TEMPERATURE GAGE
8. PITCH ANGLE SET CONTROL 48. RATE-Of-ROLL INDICATOR
9. VERTICAL VELOCITY INDICATOR 49. IGNITER IDLE SWITCH
10. INERTIAL HEIGHT (ALTIMETER) INDICATOR 50. H"O" COMPARTMENT-HOT CAUTION LIGHT
11. NO.1 GENERATOR VOLTMETER 51. CHAMBER AND STAGE 2 IGNITER PRESSURE GAGE
12. RAS-OUT INDICATOR LIGHT 52. TURBOPUMP IDLE BUTTON
13. INERTIAL SPEED (VELOCITY) INDICATOR 53. fUEL QUANTITY GAGE
14. NO.1 GENERATOR-OUT LIGHT 54. ENGINE PRIME SWITCH
15. NO.1 GENERATOR SWITCH 55. ENGINE PRECOOL SWITCH
16. EMERGENCY BATTERY SWITCH 56. fUEL LINE-LOW CAUTION LIGHT
17. NO.2 GENERATOR SWITCH 57. PROPELLANT MANifOLD PRESSURE GAGE ~
18.
19.
NO.2 GENERATOR-OUT LIGHT
NO.2 GENERATOR VOLTMETER
58.
59.
ENGINE RESET BUTTON
ENGINE MASTER SWITCH
9
....
20. NO.2 APU HYDROGEN PEROXIDE OVERHEAT WARNING LIGHT 60. PROPELLANT PUMP INLET PRESSURE GAGE
21. NO.2 APU COMPARTMENT OVERHEAT CAUTION LIGHT
~I
61. H,O, TANK AND ENGINE CONTROL LINE PRESSURE GAGE ....
22. NO.2 APU HYDROGEN PEROXIDE-LOW CAUTION LIGHT 62. PROPELLANT SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE CJ1
I
23. NO.2 APU SWITCH 63. PROPELLANT TANK PRESSURE GAGE ....
24. NO.2 HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGE 64. H,O, SOURCE AND PURGE PRESSURE GAGE
25. CANOPY INTERNAL EMERGENCY JETTISON HANDLE 65. JETTISON STOP SWITCHES
26. STABLE PLATfORM SWITCH 66. AUXILIARY LAUNCH SWITCH
27. NOSE BALLISTIC ROCKET HEATER SWITCH 67. LANDING GEAR HANDLE
28. VENTRAL ARMING SWITCH 68. VENTRAL JETTISON BUTTON
29. WINDSHIELD HEATER SWITCHES (2) 69. HELIUM RELEASE SELECTOR SWITCH
30. fiRE-WARNING LIGHT TEST BUTTON 70. fiRE-WARNING LIGHT
31. INDICATOR, CAUTION, AND WARNING LIGHT SWITCH 71. ENGINE VIBRATION MALfUNCTION CAUTION LIGHT
32. COCKPIT LIGHTING SWITCH 72. AMMONIA TANK PRESSURE-LOW CAUTION LIGHT
33. CABIN PRESSURE ALTIMETER 73. TURBOPUMP OVERS PEED CAUTION LIGHT
34. HYDRAULIC PRESSURE GAGE 74. STAGE 2 IGNITION MALfUNCTION CAUTION LIGHT
35. CABIN HELIUM SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE 75. PROPELLANT EMERGENCY PRESSURIZATION SWITCH
36. NO. 1 AND NO.2 BALLISTIC CONTROL SWITCHES 76. VALVE MALfUNCTION CAUTION LIGHT
37. HYDROGEN PEROXIDE TANK PRESSURE GAGE 77. LIQUID OXYGEN TANK PRESSURE-LOW CAUTION LIGHT
38. APU BEARING TEMPERATURE GAGE 78. IDLE END LIGHT
39. NO.1 APU HYDROGEN PEROXIDE OVERHEAT WARNING LIGHT 79. NO-DROP CAUTION LIGHT
40. NO.1 APU COMPARTMENT OVERHEAT CAUTION LIGHT

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X-15-1-00-16F o
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In
 Section I T.O. lX-15-1

COCKPIT LEFT SIDE J

1 I

1. UHF CONTROL PANEL 9. VENT. PRESSURIZATION, AND JrnlSON LEVER

2. PRESSURESUIT VENTILATION KNOB 10. ENGINE THROTTLE
3. VENT SUIT HEATER SWITCH 11. UPPER SPEED BRAKE HANDLE
4. FACE MASK HEATER SWITCH 12. LOWER SPEED BRAKE HANDLE
S. INTERCOMMUNICATION SWITCH 13. ANTENNA SelECTOR SWITCH
6. BALLISTIC CONTROL STICK 14. TRIM CONTROL SWITCH
7. JETTISON TRIM SWITCH 1 S. READY-TO-LAUNCH SWITCH
8. WING flAP SWITCH
X-15-1-00-6E

Figure 1-3.

engine operation, or to move the switch to AUTO to spherical supply tank (19, figure 1-1) with a capacity
release the helium and simultaneously shut down the of 854 pounds (77. 5 US gallons). A swivel-type pickup
engine. Moving the switch to ON will release the feed line allows positive feeding of the monopropellant
helium into the engine compartment whenever the regardless of airplane attitude. The system includes
battery bus is energized. Once energized, the helium
release valve is locked in the jettison position and must
a combination vent, pressure relief, and tank pres-
be electrically unlocked by ground personnel. surization valve; a jettison valve; a hydrogen peroxide
ENGINE TURBOPUMP.
throttle control metering valve; a safety valve; a shut-
off valve; and a gas generator. This system is con-
A turbopump, mounted on the front of the engine, de- trolled by switches and a control lever in the cockpit
livers the propellants in the desired quantities and at and is put into operation whenever the engine starting c:
the proper pressures to the engine. The turbopump sequence is begun. For a description of these controls,
contains a gas generator, a two-stage, axial-flow refer to "Engine Controls" in this section. When the
turbine, and two centrifugal pumps on a common shaft. engine is not operating, the tank is vented to atmosphere
Each pump supplies one of the propellants to the engine. if the vent, pressurization, and jettison control lever
The monopropellant for driving the turbine is 90 percent is at VENT and control gas is available. The tank is
hydrogen peroxide (H2~). An electrohydraulic power pressurized with helium control gas, to feed the H2~
servo system governs turbine speed to the selected to the gas generator, which provides steam power for
power requirement. turbopump operation. Tank pressure can be read from
Turbopump Propellant (H202) System. a gage in the cockpit. Refer to "H202 Tank and Engine
Control Line Pressure Gage" in this section. The
The hydrogen peroxide monopropellant (H202) used to system also includes a jettison feature that permits the
drive the turbopump is contained in a 10-cubic-foot H202 to be forcibly expelled overboard.
1-6

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

v 1

1. CANOPY INTERNAL HANDLE

2. CABIN SOURCE HELIUM SHUTOFF VALVE SWITCH
3. APU COOLING SWITCH
4. CONSOLE STICK
5. ALTERNATE CABIN PRESSURIZATION SWITCH
6. CIRCUIT-BREAKER PANEL (TYPICAL)
7. PRESSURE COOLING LEVER
B. BLOWER SWITCHES (2)

X-15-I-OO-7D

Figure 1-4.

H202 Compartment-hot Light. An amber H202 com- the hydraulic pressure balance between the governor
partment-hot caution light (50, figure 1-2), on the and metering valve is adjusted to control peroxide
instrument panel, comes on when temperature in the flow into the gas generator. Decrease or increase of
upper area of the turbopump propellant compartment the turbopump speed from that required for the selected
reaches 538°C (1000°F) or when temperature in the thrust causes a hydraulic imbalance between governor
lower area of the compartment reaches 427°C (800°F). and metering valve. As the governor reacts to restore
When illuminated, the light reads "H2~ COMP HOT. " the hydraulic balance, hydraulic pressure to the meter-
The light is powered by the primary dc bus and may be ing valve is increased or decreased, as necessary, to
tested through the indicator, caution, and warning alter the rate of H202 flow to the gas generator and
light test circuit. thus restore the turbopump to the desired speed.
Turbopump Speed Control. ENGINE PROPELLANT AND CONTROL SYSTEM.

An electrohydraulic servo system is used as an actuation The two propellants, anhydrous ammonia and liquid
and reference system between the turbine speed and oxygen, are routed from their respective fuel tanks
H2~ flow. Its main components are a power package, to the main feed valves, which are operated by helium
a governor, a throttle synchro, a servo amplifier, a pressure. From the main feed valves, the fuel is
governor actuator, and an H202 throttle control metering routed to the turbopump. The fuels, pressurized by a
valve. Pressurized oil from an electrically driven low-pressure inert gas (helium), flow from the respec-
hydraulic pump is supplied to the governor and metering tive tanks to the turbopump. Prime orifices allow pro-
valve. When the engine throttle (throttle synchro) is pellants to circulate and cool the engine and prime the
moved, the governor speed adjustment lever is set to propellant pumps. The turbopump begins operation
the desired position by the governor actuator. The when the hydrogen peroxide supply upstream safety
speed of the turbopump is sensed by the governor, and valve and downstream shutoff valves are opened. The
1-7
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

CENTER PEDESTAL

.. 1. SAS CAUTION LIGHTS

17 gI,1IJ ,.--.... 2
2. YAR FUNCTION SWITCH
3
16 3. YAW FUNCTION SWITCH

15 4. YAW GAIN SELECTOR KNOB

14 4
S. INSTRUMENTATION CONTROL PANEL

13 6. COCKPIT RAM-AIR KNOB

7. DC VOLTMETER
5 8. DC VOLTMETER SWITCH

12 9. GROUND INTERPHONERECEPTACLE
II J......"
......---..1..i... .

_____
6 10. STABLE PLATFORM INSTRUMENT SWITCH

11. RADAR BEACON SWITCH

12. RAM-AIR LEVER

10
11 . '\", . 7
13. ROLLAND YAR GAIN SELECTORKNOB
8 14. PITCHGAIN SELECTORKNOB

15. SAS TESTSWITCH

16. ROLL FUNCTION SWITCH

9 -;:::: =,.........,'.';;.y::.-::._.,---._i';'--..<:;:,-1T--_:--[';-?P;:-:;li4i-':Z';<.}j
17. PITCH FUNCTION SWITCH

X-15-1-00-I3F

Figure 1-5.

H202 then flows to a gas generator, where it is con- the ammonia is routed through the chamber tubes in
verted to a high-pressure gas mixture of superheated order to cool the main thrust chamber. Opening of
steam and oxygen to drive the turbine wheel, which in the main propellant valve stops the flow of propellants
turn drives the propellant pumps. The propellants are to the prime valves. Once engine operation has been
then supplied to the first-stage and second-stage igniters initiated, thrust output is varied between 50%and 100%
and to the main thrust chamber. Mter priming is com- according to the throttle position selected by the pilot.
pleted, the turbopump is operating, and the first-stage The engine propellant control system is shown sche-
igniter propellant valve is opened, the liquid oxygen to matically in figure 1-7.
the first-stage igniter is routed inside the turbine ex-
haust duct, whose hot gases heat the liquid oxygen and ENGINE CONTROLS.
change it to a gaseous state. The gaseous oxygen and
ammonia then enter the first-stage igniter. Three Throttle.
spark plugs in the first-stage igniter fire the fuel and
oxidizer mixture. When the pressure switch in the The throttle (10, figure 1-3) controls thrust output of the
first-stage igniter is actuated, the second-stage igniter engine. The throttle quadrant has three marked posi-
start valves open, allowing liquid oxygen and ammonia tions: OFF, 50%, and 100%. The throttle controls an
to flow into the second-stage igniter. First-stage electromechanical servo system, which includes a
igniter flames ignite the second-stage fuel mixture. synchro transmitter attached to the throttle, a servo
Combustion pressure in the second-stage igniter then amplifier, and an actuator position transmitting syn-
actuates a switch which signals the main propellant chro linked to the turbopump governor. Turbopump
valve to open. When the main propellant valve opens, and first- and second-stage igniter operation is accom-
fuel and liquid oxygen are injected into the main thrust plished with the throttle at OFF (full aft and outboard).
chamber, where they are ignited by second-stage During the 30-second idle operation period with the
flames. Before entering the main thrust chamber, throttle OFF, the turbopump is automatically maintained
1-8

I
 T.O. lX-15-1 Section I

at idle speed. Within 30 seconds after igniter idle moved to PRESSURIZE. (See figure 1-15 for location
operation is begun, the throttle must be moved to of jettison, drain, and bleed outlets.)
50% to open the main propellant valves to the main
thrust chamber or the start sequence must be termi- Engine Master Switch.
nated. After main thrust chamber operation is begun,
movement of the throttle between 50% and 100% will The engine master switch (59, figure 1-2), on the in-
vary engine thrust accordingly. strument panel, is powered by the primary dc bus.
With the switch at OFF, primary dc bus power for
Vent, Pressurization, and Jettison Lever. engine control and engine indicator lights is inter-
rupted. With the switch at ARM, primary dc bus
This lever (9, figure 1-3) controls the pressurization power is applied to the engine indicator lights and
system selector valve. The valve is a manually con- engine control switching units.
trolled pneumatic selector valve. The lever has three
positions: VENT, PRESSURIZE, and JETTISON. With Engine Reset Button.
the lever at VENT, helium pressure (from the helium
pressure control system) is applied to all tank control The engine reset button (58, figure 1-2), on the in-
valves in the propellant system. The pressurization strument panel, is powered by the primary dc bus
valves close and the vent valves open, venting the through the engine master switch. For a normal en-
H202, liquid oxygen, and ammonia tanks. In order gine start or if a malfunction causes automatic shut-
to obtain engine operation, the lever must be moved to down during any phase of operation, depressing this
PRESSURIZE, opening the propellant system pressuri- button positions the engine control circuits to the armed
zation valves and closing the vent valves. This allows position. However, if the malfunction which caused
helium to enter and pressurize the turbopump H202 shutdown persists, engine control circuits will not be
supply tank and the liquid oxygen and ammonia tanks. armed.
When the lever is positioned to JETTISON, helium pres-
sure is applied to open three jettison valves and pres- Engine Precool Switch.
surize the H202, liquid oxygen, and ammonia tanks.
The three propellants will then begin to dump overboard. The engine precool switch (55, figure 1-2), on the in-
strument panel, is powered by the primary dc bus
NOTE through the engine master switch. It has two main-
tained positions: PRECOOL and OFF (down). With
The propellants will not jettison if the jettison an engine start sequence initiated, moving the switch
test switches are OFF. to PRECOOL opens the liquid oxygen main feed valve
and precools the system up to the main propellant valve.
Jettison Trim Switch. The precooling flow dumps overboard through the engine
liquid oxygen prime valve.
This switch (7, figure 1-3) is on the left vertical side
panel. It has three positions: NOSE UP, NOSE DOWN, NOTE
and an unmarked, center off position. The switch is
powered by the 28-volt primary dc bus. With the vent,
pressurization, and jettison lever at JETTISON, the About 10 minutes is required to precool the
jettison stop switches in the JETT position, and this engine liquid oxygen system. After precooling
switch at the unmarked off position, simultaneous is completed, the engine can be maintained in
jettisoning of H202, liquid oxygen, and ammonia will a precooled condition for an extended period
occur. Moving this switch to NOSE UP (when nose- by the following schedule: engine precool switch
down trim is felt) stops the flow of the ammonia. Mov- at OFF for 20 minutes, then at PRECOOL for
ing the switch to NOSE DOWN (when nose-up trim is 7-1/2 minutes, repeating this cycle as often as
felt) stops the flow of liquid oxygen. In either case, necessary.
when the airplane returns to trim, the switch must be
released and allowed to return to the unmarked off Engine Prime Switch.
position.

Jettison Stop Switches. The engine prime switch (54, figure 1-2), on the instru-
ment panel, has three positions: an unmarked, main-
Three jettison stop switches (65, figure 1-2), on the tained center position; a momentary PRIME position;
instrument panel left wing, have a STOP and a JETT and a maintained STOP PRIME position. With an engine
position. These switches, powered by the primary start sequence initiated, moving the switch momentarily
dc bus, are normally left in the STOP position until to PRIME opens the liquid oxygen and ammonia main
the prelaunch cruise portion of the flight. To perform feed valves and the turbopump H202 upstream safety
a test of the turbopump H202, liquid oxygen, and am- val ve and admits helium to the engine control and purge
monia jettison system, the vent, pressurization, and systems. Approximately 30 seconds is required for
jettison control lever should be placed at JETTISON. priming at high-flow rate, and when the engine precool
The systems then can be tested by placing the switches switch is placed at OFF, prime continues at low-flow
to JETT. The jettison line of each system should then rate until an actual start stops the prime or until the
emit a vaporous cloud. Flow will cease when the engine prime switch is placed momentarily at STOP
switches are returned to the STOP position or when PRIME. Engine operation may be terminated during
the vent, pressurization, and jettison control lever is any phase by moving this switch to STOP PRIME.

1-9

I
 Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

PROPELLANT
AIRPLANE PROPELLANT AND CONTROL SYSTEM
1 AIRPLANES EQUIPPED WITH XLR99 ENGINE
SOURCE
PRESSUREGAGE

HELIUM TANK HELIUM FILLER

-=-
N.O.
.
-=-
..
~....................................................._.........-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

VENT
JETTISON
POSITION VENT POSITION

VENT PRESSURIZATION
AND JmlSON
LEVER

..
N.O.
--
-.;
CONTROL SELECTOR
VALVE
(Vent and pressurized
position shown. Open

n when at 1m/SON.)

600 PSI

JmlSON JmlSON TRIM

STOP SWITCH
SWITCHES
~;
~
TO
LIQUID
OXYGEN
MAIN FEED
VALVE

NOTE
Move jettison trim switch to NOSE DOWN to
stop liquid oxygen jettison. Move switch to
NOSE UP to stop ammonia jettison.
X-15-1-48-5B

Figure 1-6
1-10

I
 T. o. 1X-15-1 Section I

_ AMMONIA
LIQUID OXYGEN
CHECKVALVE
SHUTOFFVALVE - FILLEROR OVERFLOWDRAIN

........ HELIUM

HYDROGENPEROXIDE
--1 (ELECTRICAllYACTUATED) PRESSURE REGULA TOR
SHUTOFF VALVE
==== NONPRESSURIZEDLINE (PNEUMATICALLYACTUATED)
- elECTRICALCONNECTION
MECHANICAL LINKAGE a.
.. , PRESSURETRANSMlnER
.r'...
1.,.6-
SHUnLE VALVE

-
AIIIIiI.i..
N.O. NORMAllY OPEN PILOTVALVE flOW RESTRICTOR
N. C. NORMAllY CLOSED (ElECTRICAllY ACTUATED)
"I - -- flOW LIMITINGORIFICE
PROPELLANT TANK
PRESSURE GAGE
..
N.O.
48 PSI

-
HELIUM TANK
3600 PSI

.' -
PROPEllANT EMERGENCY
PRESSURIZATION
SWITCH AND LIGHTS

HELIUM
RelEASE
SWITCH

HELIUM
FILLER

JEniSON

.
............ -- .
......... "

EMERGENCY
JrnlSON VALVE
ALTERNATE

-Q-
TO
SOURCE
3600 PSI
..
ENGINE
CONTROL
TO
AMMONIA
MAIN fEED
c
VALVE
NOTE
When the vent, pressurization, and jettison control lever is in the
VENr position, all vent valves are open, and pressurization
and jettison valves are closed. When the lever is in the PRES-
SURIZED position, the pressurization valves are open, and
the jettison and vent valves are closed. When the lever is in
the JEr1lS0N position, the jettison and pressurization valves
are open, and the vent valves are closed. X-15-1-48-6B

1-11

I
Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

FROM

1 ENGINE PROPELLANT CONTROL SYSTEM HYDROGEN

PEROXIDE
TANK

NOTE
H202 TANK AND
Liquid oxygen, ammonia, and hydrogen peroxide are supplied ENGINE CONTROL
to the feed valves under pressure when the vent, pressuriza- LINE
PRESSUREGAGE
tion, and jettison control lever is placed at PRESSURIZE.

" I
I
I

O!O
~ I FROM ALL
MALFUNCTION
II . :M:'
v ~ -----
0
,
.
N.C.

f_
SIGNALS

(
o ..

TO
I
TURBOPUMP

_
~
AMMONIA
LIQUID
OXYGEN
LUBE PUMP

J r:=j
.
---
jH ----"

0\C?O
. HELIUM FIRE
SWITCH
~ HYDROGEN
PEROXIDE , f
. . . . HYDRAULIC
"-'"
== STEAM .
N.C.
" " "" <, GASEOUS OXYGEN
I I I
- ELECTRICAL
CONNECTION

MECHANICALLINKAGE
\" .
SHUTOFF VAL VIi TO
SPARK PLUGS
IPNEUMATICALL Y ACTUATED I

C PRESSURETRANSMITTER

PRESSURE SWITCH
23-SECOND
.
N.C.
".
m
TIMER
SHUTTLE VALVE

I VENTURI
.
N.C.
ENERGIZED AFTER
[I] ORIFICE
23 SECONDS OR
AT LAUNCH
rD ACTUATOR

CHECK VALVE

N. O. NORMALLY OPEN

N. C. NORMALLY CLOSED

PILOT VALVE
(ELECTRICALLY ACTUATED I
X-15-1-48-7A

Figure 1-7
1-12
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

MAIN FEED
SAFETY VALVE
N.C.

t
I
> '
.

N.C.
.

w__
u..&.&

MALFUNCTION
SIGNAL
NOTE
Nomenclature on caution lights shown
X-15-t-48-8C illuminated for information only.

1-13

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

Turbopump Idle Button. engine turbopump. The gage is graduated from _600 F
to 2600 Fin 5-degree increments.
The turbopump idle button (52, figure 1-2), on the in-
strument panel, is powered by the primary dc bus Propellant Manifold Pressure Gage.
through the engine master switch and the engine over-
speed reset button. With an engine start sequence This dual-indicating gage (57, figure 1-2), on the in-
initiated and the prime phase completed, depressing strument panel, is powered by the 26-volt ac bus. The
this button for one second opens the turbopump H202 gage indicates, propellant pump discharge pressures.
downstream shutoff valve, which starts turbopump It is graduated from 0 to 2000 psi in increments of 50
operation. When pressure of the ammonia in the pro- psi. One pointer is labeled "L" and indicates liquid
pellant manifold builds to approximately 210 psi, the oxygen pump discharge pressure; the other pointer Ls
turbopump speed control system begins operation and labeled "A" and indicates ammonia pump discharge
maintains the turbopump at idle speed. pressure.

Igniter Idle Switch. Chamber and Stage 2 Igniter Pressure Gage.

This switch (49, figure 1-2), on the instrument panel, This dual-indicating gage (51, figure 1-2), on the in-
receives power from the primary dc bus through the strument panel, is powered by the 26-volt ac bus. The
engine master switch and engine overspeed reset but- gage is graduated from 0 to 1000 psi in increments of
ton. With an engine start sequence initiated and the 20 psi from 0 to 100, and 50 psi from 100 to 1000. The
engine turbopump operating at idle speed, moving this short hand indicates pressure in the second-stage ig-
switch from OFF (down) to IGNITER causes the follow- niter. The long hand indicates pressure in the main
ing sequence of actions: a 2-second helium purge is thrust chamber.
initiated, and the spark plugs are energized; the first-
stage igniter propellant valves open, and igniter and Ignition-ready Indicator Light.
idle timing starts; gaseous nitrogen flow (from the
carrier airplane) starts when first-stage igniter pres- This green indicator light (1, figure 1-2), on the instru-
sure reaches a specified value; propellants flow to the ment panel, is powered by the primary dc bus through
second-stage igniter; and second-stage ignition occurs. the engine master switch. When illuminated, it reads
"IGN READY, " indicating that the engine electrical
circuits and purge gas network have been energized.
In the normal starting sequence, this light will go out
I WARNING ~ for 2 seconds when the igniter idle switch is moved to
IGNITER, then come on again. During all helium
This phase of operation (igniter idle) is limited purges, this light will go out. This light may be tested
to 30 seconds. Either igniter idle operation by the indicator, caution, and warning light test circuit.
must be terminated (by placing the engine prime
switch to STOP PRIME) or the launch accom- No-drop Caution Light.
plished at the end of the 30-second idle period.
This amber caution light (79, figure 1-2) on the instru-
ENGINE INDICA TORS. ment panel, is powered by the primary dc bus through
the engine master switch. During a normal engine start
Propellant Tank Pressure Gage. sequence, this light will come on when 7 seconds re-
mains in the igniter idle phase of operation. The light,
This dual-indicating gage (63, figure 1-2), on the instru- when illuminated, reads "NO DROP" and serves to warn
ment panel, is powered by the 26-volt ac bus. The gage the pilot to terminate igniter idle operation or to con-
indjcates the two propellant tank pressures. The gage is tinue on to the launch phase. This light may be tested
graduated from 0 to 100 psi in increments of 5 psi. One by the indicator, caution, and warning light test circuit.
pointer of the gage has the letter "L, " indicating the
liquid oxygen tank pressure; the other pointer has the Idle-end Caution Light.
letter "A, " indicating the ammonia tank pressure.
This amber caution light (78, figure 1-2), on the instru-
Propellant Pump Inlet Pressure Gage. ment panel, is powered by the primary dc bus through
This dual-indicating gage (60, figure 1-2) is powered
the engine master switch. This light will illuminate,
reading "IDLE END, " when the 30-second igniter idle c
by the 26-volt ac bus. It indicates liquid oxygen and phase of engine operation is complete. When this light
ammonia pressures at the engine turbopump inlets. comes on, engine shutdown must be accomplished or
This gage is graduated from 0 to 100 psi in increments operation continued into the main chamber phase (after
of 25 psi. The pointer labeled "L" reads the liquid launch). This light may be tested by the indicator,
oxygen pressure; the pointer labeled "A" indicates caution, and warning light test circuit.
the ammonia pressure.
Valve Malfunction Caution Light.
Liquid Oxygen Bearing Temperature Gage.
This amber caution light (76, figure 1-2), on the instru-
This gage (47, figure 1-2) is powered by the 26-volt ment panel, is powered by the primary dc bus through
ac bus and indicates the temperature of the bearing the engine master switch. When illuminated, this light
for the liquid oxygen centrifugal pump segment of the reads "VALVE MAL." This light will come on when
1-14

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

malfWlction shutdown occurs because the main or first- NOTE

stage propellant valve is improperly positioned during
the starting sequence. The light will also come on mo- The fuel quantity indicating system can be ad-
mentarily whenever a malfWlction shutdown occurs with justed for an accurate indication at burnout
the main chamber operating. This light may be tested time by selection of the proper start point with
by the indicator, caution, and warning light test circuit. the reset knob. This start point is determined
by calibration of the system to the airplane in
Stage 2 Ignition Malfunction Caution Light. which it is installed.

This amber caution light (74, figure 1-2), on the instru- Fuel Line Low Caution Light.
ment panel, is powered by the primary dc bus through
the engine master switch. When illuminated, this light An amber "FUEL LINE LOW" caution light (56, figure
reads fIST 2 IGN MAL." The light will come on when 1-2) is on the left side of the instrument panel. This
a malfunction shutdown occurs during the starting light, powered by the primary de bus through the engine
sequence because of failure of the second-stage igniter master switch, is actuated by a pressure switch in-
to reach operating pressure. The light will also come stalled in the fuel (ammonia) line downstream of the main
on momentarily whenever a malfunction shutdown occurs safety valve. If fuel pressure at the turbopump inlet
with the main chamber operating. This light may be drops to 32 (:1:2)psi, the light will come on. Illumina-
tested by the indicator, caution, and warning light test tion of the light indicates that partial cavitation of the
circuit. pump is likely to occur.

Vibration Malfunction Caution Light.

This amber light (71, figure 1-2), on the instrument

panel, comes on when the engine shuts down because of
excessive vibration. Excessive engine vibration causes When the "FUEL LINE LOW" caution light is
a shutdown signal to be transmitted from either of two on, there is not sufficient cooling around the
sensors to the engine control box. The signal causes main chamber of the engine for temperature
the actuation of two malfW1ctionrelays in the control box protection. Thrust settings above 50% may in-
that de-energize the prime, precool, and firing circuits crease the temperature and cause damage to
to shut down the engine and turn on the light. The light the engine.
is powered by the primary dc bus. If the light comes
on during powered flight, an engine restart may be If the light comes on before the engine is started, the
attempted. start will be aborted. (Refer to "Fuel Line Pressure
Low" in Section ill.) When this light has been illumi-
nated, it will remain on until the engine master switch
Turbopump Overspeed Caution Light. has been placed in the OFF position. The light may be
tested by the indicator, caution, and warning light test
switch.
This amber caution light (73, figure 1-2), on the instru-
ment panel, is powered by the primary dc bus through
PROPELLANT SUPPLY SYSTEM.
the engine master switch. When illuminated, this light
reads "PUMP O'SPD." The light will come on if a mal-
function shutdown occurs because of turbopump over- The propellant supply system consists of the liquid
speed whi:h is not corrected by the turbopump governor. oxygen supply (oxidizer), anhydrous ammonia (fuel)
This light may be tested by the indicator, caution, and supply, valves, and associated plumbing. The liquid
warning light test circuit. oxygen and ammonia are fed Wlder a low inert gas pres-
sure from the supply tanks to the turbopump for engine
operation. The helium supply systems, which furnish
Fuel Quantity Gage. gas pressure for tank pressurization, pneumatic valve
operation, and system purging, are described in sepa-
rate paragraphs in this section. See figure 1-16 for
A fuel quantity gage (53, figure 1-2), on the instrument the liquid oxygen and ammonia specifications.
panel, is calibrated in percent of total fuel load. The
gage is graduated from 0 to 100 in increments of 5 and
operates on the principle that chamber pressure in the
LIQUID OXYGEN TANK. C
engine is essentially proportional to the flow of fuel and The liquid oxygen supply is carried in a triple-
oxidizer to the engine. During engine operation, the compartmented tank (12, figure 1-1), just aft of the
pointer moves counterclockwise on the dial at a rate No. 2 equipment compartment. The center section
proportional to the engine thrust selected (which also area of the cylindrical tank is hollow and forms a case
is proportional to the rate of fuel consumed). Before for a gaseous helium high-pressure storage tank. When
an engine start is initiated, the pointer is adjusted (by the liquid oxygen tank is not Wlder pressurization, it is
the center reset knob) to indicate the percent of total vented to atmosphere. The tank compartments are
fuel on board During engine operation, the gage indi- check-valve-vented. Each compartment feeds rear-
cates the percentage of fuel load remaining. The fuel ward toward the airplane center of gravity. The liquid
quantity gage receives a signal from the fuel quantity oxygen is fed from the rear compartment under 48 psi
control Wlit, which is powered by the primary dc and of helium pressure to the turbopump or jettison line
No. 2 primary ac busses. through a series of control valves. The total volume
1-15

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

of the tank is 1034 US gallons; of this amount, 14 gallons gas regulators in the purge valve network at a pressure
is residual at a liquid surface angle of 38 degrees, and of 550 to 600 psig. The control gas valve is energized
17 gallons is vent and expansion space. The total usable during the prime period and admits helium at a pressure
liquid oxygen is 1003 gallons. The tank is filled for of 550to 600 psig to the pilot valves for the prime valve,
flight through the carrier airplane's supply system. first-stage igniter start valve, second-stage igniter
The tank incorporates a liquid oxygen fluid level sensing start and shutoff valves, and main propellant valve.
switch that permits the tank to be topped off automat- Helium at a pressure of 125 to 200 psig is routed from
ically whenever fluid drops below a predetermined level. the two purge gas regulators and to the return side of
For ground operational checks, the tank is serviced the second-stage igniter start and.shutoff valves. An-
through the receptacle mounted on the engine feed line. other regulator supplies helium from the helium mani-
The tank filler is on the topside of the wing fairing tun- fold at 7.5 psig to the lubrication system accumulator,
nel forward of the left wing root leading edge. engine control box, and hydraulic power package.

AMMONIA TANK. HELIUM RELEASE SELECTOR SWITCH.

The ammonia supply is carried in a triple-compart- Refer to "Engine Compartment Purging System" in this
mented cylindrical tank (17, figure 1-1), just aft of section.
the No.3 equipment compartment and ahead of the
turbopump hydrogen peroxide tank. The center section
area is hollow and closed at both ends. The rear com- H202 SOURCE AND PURGE PRESSURE GAGE.
partment center section is perforated to allow storage
of ammonia within the center section area. The com- A dual-indicating H 0 source and purge pressure gage
partments are check-valve-vented. This aids in the (64, figure 1-2), on\h~ instrument panel, is powered by
pressure feed of the fluid transfer from the rear tank the 26-volt ac bus. This gage indicates the helium pres-
compartment forward toward the airplane center of sure available from three of the engine and propellant
gravity. The rear compartment empties first; then the helium system tanks. Needle 1 indicates pressure in
middle compu1:ment empties into the front compartment, the large tank between the liquid oxygen and ammonia
with the ammonia fed from the front compartment under tanks. Needle 2 indicates pressure in the two smaller
48 psi of helium pressure to the turbopump or jettison tanks in the wing root fairing tunnels. The gage is
line through a series of control valves. The total vol- calibrated from 0 to 4000 psi in increments of 100 psi.
ume of the tank is approximately 1445 US gallons. The Normally, the two pointers will indicate the same pres-
tank is ground-serviced only. The filler receptacle for sure. However, if there is a malfunction of the emer-
the tank is on the underside of the right wing root fairing gency jettison system helium supply or if helium is
tunnel. dumped into the engine compartment, the pointers will
not indicate the same pressure. There is no gage in
ENGINE AND PROPELLANT CONTROL HELIUM the cockpit which indicates pressure in the emergency
SYSTEM. jettison system helium supply tank.
H2~ TANKANDENGINECONTROLLINE PRESSURE
Helium to pressurize the turbopump hydrogen peroxide GAGE.
supply tank and to supply pneumatic pressure for engine
and propellant control is contained in four spherical This dual-indicating gage (61, figure 1-2), on the in-
tanks. One tank (15, figure 1-1) is between the liquid strument panel, is powered by the 26-volt ac bus. One
oxygen and ammonia tanks. Two tanks (23, figure 1-1) pointer, labeled "C, " indicates engine control line
are in the left and right wing root fairing tunnels (helium) pressure downstream of the two parallel pres-
outboard of the engine. These three tanks are inter- sure regulators. The other pointer, labeled "T, " indi-
connected, supplying 3600 psig pressure to two cates pressure in the turbopump H2~ supply tank. The
pressure-reducing regulators in parallel. The fourth gage is calibrated from 0 to 1000 psi in increments of
tank is just to the right of the turbopump H202 supply 50 psi, except that the range 0 to 100 is in increments
tank and supplies helium at 3600 psig to a single of 20 psi.
pressure-reducing regulator for emergency or second-
ary pneumatic control of the propellant jettison valves. PROPELLANT PRESSURIZATION HELIUM SYSTEM.
This tank is interconnected with the other three tanks
for filling purposes only. From the parallel pressure- The propellant pressurization helium system supplies
reducing regulators of the main supply, helium at 575 gas to pressurize the liquid oxygen and ammonia tanks.
to 600 psig is supplied to the engine helium manifold This helium is contained in the supply tank (14, figure
for operation of engine control valves, to the turbopump 1-1) within the center section of the liquid oxygen tank
H202 supply tank for tank pressurization, and to pro- and is pressurized to 3600 psi. The helium flows to
pellant control jettison and main feed valves. Two of the normally open pressure regulators of the liquid
the tanks supply helium directly to the helium dump oxygen and ammonia supply tanks. The two regulators
valve, for engine compartment purging. The dump are actuated by helium pressure (from the engine and
valve is solenoid-operated and controlled by the helium propellant helium control system) to the closed position
release selector switch. For information on operation when the vent, pressurization, and jettison control lever
of this switch, refer to "Helium Release Selector Switch" is at VENT. When the control lever is placed at PRES-
in this section. The helium to the engine helium mani- SURIZE or JETTISON, the regulators open and helium
fold is in turn routed to a control gas valve and the two pressure flows to the liquid oxygen and ammonia tanks.
1-16

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

The regulators reduce the helium pressure to 48 psi AUXILIARY POWER UNITS.
before it enters the liquid oxygen and ammonia tanks.
when the liquid oxygen and ammonia tanks are pres- The airplane is equipped with two auxiliary power units
surized, the propellants are forced through the feed (7, figure 1-1) that are set side-by-side in a compart-
lines to the main feed shutoff valves. ment in the forward fuselage. Each unit is a completely
PROPELLANT SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE. automatic, constant-speed, turbine drive machine that
transmits power to, and provides structural support for,
The propellant source pressure gage (62, figure 1-2), an ac generator and a hydraulic pump. Propellant for
on the instrument panel, is powered by the 26-volt ac each auxiliary power unit is provided by an independent
bus. The gage indicates pressure in the cylindrical feed system, using helium pressure to move the mono-
helium tank for liquid oxygen and ammonia tank pres- propellant, hydrogen peroxide. The two auxiliary power
surization. The gage is calibrated from 0 to 4000 psi units with their respective feed systems are identified
in increments of 100 psi. as system No. 1 and system No.2. Their operation is
PROPELLANT EMERGENCY PRESSURIZATION completely independent of each other, and each furnishes
SYSTEM. one half of the power required. If one unit should fall,
the other will provide sufficient electrical and hydraulic
The propellant emergency pressurization system can power for limited flight capabilities. Each auxiliary
be used to pressurize either the liquid oxygen or the power unit is started and stopped by a switch in the
ammonia tank in case of a failure in the normal pres- cockpit. When an APU is turned on, a solenoid-type
surization system. This will per m i t continued low shutoff valve is opened to allow hydrogen peroxide from
thrust engine operation or pro~llant jettisoning. The the propellant feed system to flow into the unit. The
e mer g en c y system can supply pressurizing gas to propellant is routed first through a gear case for cooling
only one propellant tank at a time. The emergency purposes (nitrogen gas is also introduced into the upper
system uses he Ii u m from the three interconnected turbine bearing area for additional cooling) and then to a
tanks in the engine and propellant cmtrol helium sys- modulating flow control valve. The flow control valve is
tem. The system includes a switch and two caution modulated to open or close to provide stabilization
lights. through a speed control system consisting of a tachom-
Propellant Emergency Pressurization Switch. eter generator and a frequency detector. Any turbine
overspeed condition is sensed by an overspeed sensing
This three-position switch (75, figure 1-2), on the in- element in the speed control system which will auto-
strument panel, controls primary dc bus power to the matically act to close the shutoff valve. When the shut-
two emergency pressurization system solenoid-operated off valve is closed, fuel flow stops and the unit shuts
shut-off valves. With the switch at OFF, the valves are down. The APU shutoff valve is fitted with a drain that
de-energized closed. The switch must be pulled straight opens when the valve is closed, to relieve any excess
out of a detent to move it from OFF to either of the other
pressure in the line downstream of the shutoff valve.
positions. With the switch at LOX, electrical power is After passing through the flow control valve, the hydro-
applied to open the shutoff valve which controls emer- gen peroxide enters a decomposition chamber containing
gency helium pressure to the liquid oxygen tank. With a catalyst bed. This catalyst bed is made up of a series
the switch at NH3, electrical power is applied to open of silver and stainless-steel screens which act to de-
the shutoff valve which controls emergency helium compose the hydrogen peroxide into a high-pressure gas
pressure to the ammonia tank. All three switch posi- mixture of superheated steam and oxygen. The de-
tions are maintained.
composition chamber is heated electrically from the
Liquid Oxygen and Anunonia Tank Pressure-low Caution carrier airplane to ensure a fast start under "cold-
Lights. soak" conditions in case of an emergency. The super-
heated steam and oxygen mixture enters a nozzle box
These lights (72 and 77, figure 1-2), on the instrument in the turbine housing. Here, five nozzles convert
panel, are powered by the primary dc bus. The liquid pressure energy of the fluid into kinetic energy and
oxygen tank pressure-low caution light is labeled "LOX. " direct the flow of gas against a turbine wheel. The
The ammonia tank pressure-low caution light is labeled turbine, acting through a reduction gear train, trans-
"NH3'" (The nomenclature for the lights also serves as mits power to the ac generator and hydraulic pump.
position nomenclature for the propellant emergency The turbine wheel is housed within an exhaust casing
pressurization switch.) Mter the vent, pressurization, which is designed to contain any buckets that might
and jettison lever is placed at PRESSURIZE, the related separate from the wheel during an overspeed operation.
light will come on when pressure in the affected tank The exhaust casing collects spent gases that have passed
drops to 34 (:1:2)psi. If a light comes on during powered through the turbine wheel and exhausts them overboard.
flight, it may remain on even after emergency pressur- A gear casing assembly contains the reduction gearing,
ization of the affected tank has been initiated, indicating accessory drive pads, cooling passages, provisions for
that the affected tank pressure is not above 40 psi. lubrication, and a drive for the tachometer generator.
A typical auxiliary power unit and its propellant feed
NOTE system are shown schematically in figure 1-8. For
information on nitrogen cooling of the upper turbine
During the transitional period when the vent, bearing of each APU, refer to "APU Cooling Switch"
pressurization, and jettison lever is moved in Section IV.
from VENT to PRESSURIZE, the lights should
come on and remain on for approximately 6 APU SPEED CONTROL.
seconds (during build-up of pressure in the The speed control for each auxiliary power unit provides
propellant tanks). positive speed control, starting and stopping, and
1-17
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

."

AUXILIARY POWER UNIT AND BALLISTIC

1

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE-LOW NO.1 BALLISTIC

NOTE CONTROL SWITCH

. Only the No 1 supply system and No 1 APU

are shown; the No.2 supply system and No.
CAUTION LIGHT

2 APU are identical.

. FILLER VENT
(Provides venting
Nomenclature on indicator lights shown during filling) REFILLING
illuminated for information only. RECEPTACLE

PRESSURE
DIFFERENTIAL
SWITCH
.

TO
COMMON LINE
OVERBOARD

FILLER VENT
HELIUM PRESSUREGAGE (SERVICING) (Provides venting
during filling)

DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE
VALVE

POSITIVE
EX PULSION
OUTLET

BLADDER -
REFILLING
RECEPTACLE

BAFFLE CYLINDER

STORAGE
TANK PICKUPTUBE -

H,O, HOT

APU SOURCE PRESSURE APU HYDROGEN PEROXIDE TANK HYDROGEN PEROXIDE OVERHEAT
GAGE PRESSURE GAGE WARNING LIGHT
(Commonto both systems) (Common to both systems)

X-15-1-49-IA

1-18 Figure 1-8 (Sheet 1 of 3)

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

CONTROL AND REACTION AUGMENTATION SYSTEMS

APU
COMPARTMENT

OVERHEAT
APU BEARING WARNING LIGHT
NO.1
APU SWITCH TEMPERATURE GAGE

APU COMP HOT

I"",,m.. ·..."~r-
-
CONTROLLER

TURBINE HYDRAULIC APU-DRIVEN

PUMP ACCESSORY
TO
COMPARTMENT
COMMON LINE
OVERBOARD
.0

BLOWOUT
-
PLUG

IIml COOLING
APU SHUTOFF NITROGEN
VALVE
INLET

DRAIN

, TO
I) COMMON LINE
, OVERBOARD
JEmSON AND
BALLISTIC
CONTROL
VALVE Q-
TO
BAlliSTICCONTROL
AND
REACTIONAUGMENTATION
SYSTEMS

[!]

.
PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
HELIUM GAS
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
SUPERHEATEDSTEAM
I THERMOSWITCH

AND OXYGEN PRESSURE TRANSMITTER

NITROGEN GAS
VENT AND JmlSON ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

CHECK VALVE MECHANICAL LINKAGE

X-I5-1-52-3C

Figure 1- 8 (Sheet 2 of 3) 1-19

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

1
RAS CONTROL
PANEL
RA'
PITCH ROlL YAW ACCH

r- ENGAGE ---, AUTO

~)~)(~)~)
L.:.. STANDBY --=..J OFF

ROLL
SOLENOID
VALVE 1/ TO
NO. I SYSTEM
ROll ROCKET
1/ MOTORS

RAS GYRO
ACCELEROMETER
UNIT

I
TO I
fROM NO. 1
1/ NO. I SYSTEM
I
APUANDBAllIST~
CONTROL
YAW AND PITCH I
SWITCHES 1/ ROCKET I
1/ MOTORS
I RAS-OUT INDICATOR
I LIGHT
I . ..
I~~.~, ~ : ~ _~/__.
.I~~
I

JmlSON AND
BALLISTIC
CONTROL VALVE TO
r
I
~~ ~""' ~~;ROL
COMMON LINE
OVERBOARD
I STICK
I
I
~I~,
1/. YAW AND PITCH
'(
1'----
METERINGVALVE
-
LEfT-YAW ROCKET
NOSE-UP PITCH
ROCKET
1
-
-
-
RIGHT YAW ROCKET
~
NOSE-DOWN
ROCKET
PITCH

II II II
0.0-.0-.0-
fROM RAS SYSTEM
(No. I system only)

--
LEfT ROLL
ROCKET
QIT

-
RIGHT ROLL
ROCKET

X-15-1-52-6

1-20 Figure 1-8 (Sheet 3 of 3)

I
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section I

overspeed protection by regulating the flow of hydrogen APU COMPARTMENT OVERHEAT CAUTION LIGHTS.
peroxide to the decomposition chamber. The key com-
ponent of each speed control is a controller which con- Two APU compartment amber overheat caution lights
tains the necessary circuits for sensing unit operation (21 and 40, figure 1-2) are adjacent to their related
through the frequency output of a tachometer generator. APU switches on the instrument panel. The lights are
During normal operation, the frequency of the power powered by the battery bus. A thermoswitch in each
generated by the tachometer generator, being propor- APU accessory drive compartment is set to energize
tional to the turbine speed, matches a preset frequency the light when the temperature in the compartment rises
of the controller. Any change in turbine speed due to a to approximately 5250 F. The lights read "APU COMP
change in load, or from any other disturbance, causes a HOT" when on. If either light comes on, the related
proportional change in frequency of the tachometer gen- auxiliary power unit should be shut down immediately.
erator. This frequency change is sensed by the control-
ler, which in turn adjusts the opening of the flow control APU AND BALLISTIC CONTROL PROPELLANT FEED
valve to bring turbine speed back to the normal operating SYSTEMS.
level. During normal operation, the speed of the unit is
automatically controlled to maintain 51,200 rpm by the Two completely independent feed systems provide pro-
speed-sensing element of the controller. Should an pellant for the auxiliary power units and the ballistic
overspeed condition occur (56,000 rpm or greater), the control system. (Refer to "Ballistic Control System"
overspeed sensing element of the controller automat- in this section.) System 1 is in the left side of the fuse-
ically acts to energize the solenoid-operated APU shutoff lage; system 2 is in the right side of the fuselage. The
valve to the closed position, thereby shutting off the flow systems are identical. Helium gas under pressure
of the propellant. The unit then decelerates and stops. moves the monopropellant hydrogen peroxide to its
It cannot be restarted until the APU switch is first cycled basic function of providing fuel to these units at the
to the OFF position. required flow rates and pressures. Each propellant
feed system includes a high-pressure, spherical, he-
APU SWITCHES. lium storage tank and a positive expulsion-type hydro-
gen peroxide storage tank. Both tanks are below the
There are two APU switches (23 and 46, figure 1-2) on related auxiliary power unit in the forward fuselage.
the instrument panel, one for control of each auxiliary Helium and hydrogen peroxide filler valves and helium
power unit and its associated feed system. When either high-pressure gages for ground servicing are in each
switch is turned to ON, battery-bus power is used to side of the fuselage side fairings. Helium and hydro-
open the helium shutoff valve in the related propellant gen peroxide pressure gages common to both systems
feed system, allowing helium pressure to move the are in the cockpit. When the ballistic control switch is
hydrogen peroxide through the feed lines. At the same turned ON, or when the APU switch is turned ON (or to
time, power is applied to the opening circuit of the re- JETT), a shutoff valve is opened to allow helium to flow
lated APU shutoff valve. This permits the propellant from the storage tank. The helium tank contains enough
to flow to the auxiliary power unit. Turning the switch helium to expel all the hydrogen peroxide in the hydrogen
to OFF closes the helium shutoff valve (if the ballistic peroxide storage tank. Helium pressure is reduced from
control swftch is at OFF), shutting off the helium supply. 3600 psi at the tank to 550 psi as it passes through a
pressure regulator. A relief valve upstream of the
NOTE pressure regulator prevents overpressurization due
to overcharging or pressure build-up during high-
temperature conditions. From the pressure regulator,
If the ballistic control switch is at ON, the OFF the helium passes through the shutoff valve and pres-
position of the APU switch will not close the surizes the hydrogen peroxide tank. The positive-
helium shutoff valve.
expulsion type hydrogen peroxide tank contains a baffle
cylinder, perforated to allow the propellant to flow to a
pickup tube inside the baffle cylinder. The inlet of the
At the same time, the APU shutoff valve closes, shutting pickup tube is very close to the bottom of the tank to
off the flow of the propellant to the unit. The JETT prevent it from being uncovered during normal flight
position, powered by the primary dc bus, is used if an attitudes when only approximately 20 percent of the
emergency arises and it is desired to jettison the pro- propellant supply remains in the tank. Between the
pellant overboard. The switch is guarded to prevent it baffle cylinder and tank wall is a collapsible plastic
bladder. The helium enters the tank between the wall
from being accidentally moved to the JETT position. and the bladder where pressure on the bladder forces
Whenthe switch is turned to JETT, the following occurs: the hydrogen peroxide into the baffle cylinder through
The helium shutoff valve in the feed system opens, or the pickup tube and out of the tank. A check valve up-
remains open if it is already so, allowing the helium to stream of the tank prevents hydrogen peroxide from
continue to force the hydrogen peroxide through the feed backing into the helium system in case of a bladder
lines. Concurrently, the APU shutoff valve closes and failure. When the tank is emptied to the extent that
a jettison and ballistic control valve in the feed system the bladder collapses against the baffle cylinder, the
opens to the jettison position. The jettison and ballistic feed pressure will drop off. This pressure drop cre-
control valve serves both as a shutoff valve for propel- ates a pressure differential between the helium and
lant supply to the ballistic control system and as a pro- hydrogen peroxide. When this pressure differential
pellant jettison control. As this valve opens to the increases to approximately 35 psi, a differential pres-
jettison port, the propellant is routed through a line sure switch in the system actuates a low-level caution
that dumps overboard at the aft end of the airplane. light in the cockpit. Pressure differential is also sensed
1-21

I
 Section I T.O. 1X-15-1 -------.-

by a valve that opens at approximately 55 psi and allows bearings. The temperature indicating system is pow-
helium to flow to the top of the baffle cylinder, expelling ered by the No. 1 primary ac bus. The gage is cali-
the remaining hydrogen peroxide. Protection of the brated from zero to 200 in increments of 20 degrees.
hydrogen peroxide tank against rupture due to overpres- The left pointer indicates No. 1 APU upper turbine
surization is provided by a pressure relief valve and a bearing temperature; the right pointer, No. 2 APU
blowout plug. The relief valve is designed to open at upper turbine bearing temperature.
approximately 650 psi (100 psi over normal tank pres-
sure). In case of a malfunction of the pressure relief Hydrogen Peroxide-low Caution Lights. Each propellant
valve or an abnormal rate of pressure increase, the feed system has a low-level caution light (22 and 43,
blowout plug will rupture at approximately 900 psi. If figure 1-2) that reads "H202 LOW" when on. The two
the blowout plug should rupture, the affected system amber, placard-type lights, on the right side of the in-
will be deactivated by loss of the propellant through the strument panel, are powered by the primary dc bus. A
plug. The flow of both of these relief devices is routed pressure-differential switch in each system becomes
overboard through a vent and jettison line. A thermo- energized, causing the related light to come on when
switch at the base of the tank energizes a warning light the differential pressure between helium and hydrogen
in the cockpit if the hydrogen peroxide in the tank be- peroxide rises to approximately 35 psi. The light will
comes overheated. From the storage tank, the propel- come on at this instant, when approximately 20 percent
lant is routed into feed lines through shutoff valves to of the hydrogen peroxide supply is left in the storage
the auxiliary power unit and the ballistic control system. tank. If either light comes on, extreme maneuvers
Temperature of the propellant at the APU inlet must be a should be avoided to prevent uncovering the inlet of the
minimum of 40° F during starting. To prevent freezing pickup tube in the tank, thus allowing helium to flow into
in the feed lines, warm air from the carrier airplane is the hydrogen peroxide line.
pumped into the compartment containing the propellant
feed system hydrogen peroxide components to maintain Hydrogen Peroxide Overheat Warning Lights. The No. 1
a temperature of approximately 120 ° F. The system is and No. 2 hydrogen peroxide overheat warning lights (20
designed to dump helium and hydrogen peroxide over- and 39, figure 1-2) are on the right side of the instru-
board if an emergency arises. ment panel. The red, placard-type lights are powered
by the battery bus and read "H202 HOT" when on. A
APU and Ballistic Control Propellant Feed System thermoswitch at the base of each system hydrogen per-
Controls and Indicators.
oxide storage tank energizes the related light if the
temperature of the contents of the tank rises to approxi-
APU Source Pressure Gage. A dual-movement helium mately 160° F. If either light comes on, the contents of
pressure gage (42, figure 1-2), common to both propel- the affected tank should be jettisoned. Concurrently, the
lant feed systems, is on the right side of the instrument related auxiliary power unit will automatically shut down.
panel. The gage, labeled "SOURCE, " is calibrated in
pounds per square inch and has two pointers, marked APU Switches. Refer to "Auxiliary Power Units" in this
"1" and "2" for system identification. The gage includes section.
a slip ring, with calibration markings of "F, " "3/4, "
"1/2," "1/4, " and "E." The slip ring is used to indicate Ballistic Control System Switches. Refer to "Ballistic
the amount of H2~ available to the APU's. The quantity Control System" in this section.
of H202. available from the tanks is proportional to
source (helium) pressure. Therefore, the slip ring ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS.
should be rotated just before APU start so that the "F"
mark is aligned with the No. 1 pointer; then the position The airplane is equipped with an alternating-current
of the No. 1 pointer in relation to the slip ring calibra- and a direct-current electrical power system. (See
tions will indicate the amount of H2~ available for APU figure 1-9.) Power for the ac system is supplied by
operation once they are started. The pressure indicating two alternator-type generators. The dc system normally
system is powered by the 26-volt ac bus. Operating is powered from the ac system through two transformer-
pressure will vary from 3600 down to 550 psi, depending rectifiers. A 24-volt battery is available for use in an
upon the helium supply in the storage tank. emergency to supply dc power to essential equipment.
During ground operation, ac and de power can be sup-
APU Hydrogen Peroxide Tank Pressure Gage. A dual- plied to the airplane by an external power source. Dur-
movement hydrogen peroxide pressure gage (37, figure ing captive flight, the carrier airplane can supply ac and
1-2), common to both propellant feed systems, is on dc power to the airplane. Both external power sources
the right side of the instrument panel. The gage is supply minimum dc power for initial relay or valve oper-
labeled "H2~" and is calibrated in pounds per square ation only. Large amounts of dc power then are supplied
inch. The pointers are marked "1" and "2" for system from the ac system through the transformer-rectifiers.
identification. The gage shows tank pressure in the
hydrogen peroxide storage tanks, sensed by a pressure AC ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION.
transmitter in each feed system. Normal operating
pressure is approximately 550 psi. The pressure indi- Two ac generators supply 200/115-volt, 400-cycle,
cating system is powered by the 26-volt ac bus. three-phase ac power to the two primary ac busses.
Each generator is driven through a gear train by an
APU Bearing Temperature Gage. A dual-pointer APU auxiliary power unit. (Refer to "Auxiliary Power Units"
bearing temperature gage (38, figure 1-2) is on the in- in this section.) Two 26-volt ac busses are powered by
strument panel. The gage shows in degrees centigrade the No. 2 primary ac bus. Automatic frequency control
the temperature of No. 1 and No. 2 APU upper turbine and voltage regulation are provided for the ac generators.
1-22
 T.O. lX-15-1 Section I

AC Generators. EXTERNAL ELECTRICAL POWER RECEPTACLE.

Each ac generator is driven through a gear train by an The external power receptacle is on the upper surface
auxiliary power unit and supplies 200j115-volt, 400- of the fuselage, aft of the canopy. (See figure 1-16.)
cycle, three-phase ac power to its respective primary When ac and dc external power is applied to the airplane
ac bus. Failure of an APU causes failure of the ac by a ground unit, an adapter must be used. When ex-
generator it drives. Hone ac generator fails for any ternal power is applied from the carrier airplane, a
reason, the other ac generator automatically supplies single plug-in unit in the carrier airplane pylon is used.
power to both primary ac busses. H either generator
drops "off the line" because of a momentary malfunc- cmCUIT BREAKERS AND FUSES.
tion, it can be reset "onto the line. "
The electrical distribution circuits are protected by
Primary AC Busses. circuit breakers and fuses on the electrical power panel
in the No. 2 equipment compartment and on the circuit-
The No. 1 primary ac bus normally is powered by the breaker panel (6, figure 1-4) on the right console in the
No. 1 ac generator; the No. 2 primary ac bus, by the coclqJit. All of the circuit break~rs on the right console
No.2 ac generator. However, if either generator fails, panel are of the push-pull type. The circuit breakers in
the remaining generator will power both primary ac the No. 2 equjpment compartment must be properly posi-
busses. External power, on the ground or from the tioned before carrier take-off, because they are not
carrier airplane, will power the primary ac busses, accessible in flight.
but only when neither ac generator is on.
26-volt AC Busses.

The two 26-volt ac busses are powered through two

parallel transformers by the No. 2 primary ac bus. H the two external power circuit breakers in
The 26-volt busses are powered as long as either ac the No. 2 equipment compartment are not closed
generator is operating. In addition, when external before carrier take-off, carrier airplane electri-
power is applied to the airplane on the ground or from cal power cannot be applied to the X-15 Airplane.
the carrier airplane (and both ac generators are off),
the 26-volt busses are powered. ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY CONTROLS.

DC ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION. No. 1 Generator Switch.

Direct-current power is distributed from the 28-volt A three-position switch (15, figure 1-2) on the instru-
primary dc bus and the battery bus. ment panel controls operation of the No. 1 ac generator
by means of battery bus power. The switch is spring-
loaded from the RESET position to ON. When the switch
28-volt Primary DC Bus. is OFF, the generator is taken "off the line." When the
generator is "off the line, " because the switch is at OFF
The 28-volt primary dc bus is powered by both primary or because of a momentary generator malfunction, the
ac busses through two transformer-rectifiers. The switch must be moved to RESET momentarily to bring
primary dc bus, in addition to powering certain equip- the generator "on the line" and then released to ON to
ment, normally powers the battery bus. Failure of one maintain the generator "on the line. "
ac generator will not de-energize the primary dc bus.
The primary dc bus also is energized when external NOTE
power is applied on the ground or from the carrier
airplane. Neither generator will operate unless the APU
for the respective generator is also operating
Battery Bus. and driving the generator.

The battery bus normally is powered by the primary dc

To bring the No. 1 generator "on the line" initially, the
bus. However, the emergency battery can be connected
switch must be moved from OFF to RESET momentarily
to the battery bus to provide emergency dc power. In
addition, external power on the ground or from the and then released to ON. It is not necessary to move c
the switch to OFF when the No.1 APU is shut down,
carrier airplane can be applied to the battery bus.
because the No. 1 generator underfrequency protective
relay will have tripped the generator off.
Emergency Battery.
NOTE
A stand-by, 24-volt, emergency battery is available
to provide emergency power to the battery bus. H either generator is operating and "on the line, "
most external power is automatically discon-
ELECTRICALL Y OPERATED EQUIPMENT. nected. Power to the battery bus, certain
heaters, ready-to-Iaunch light, liquid oxygen
level probe, and stabilization of stable platform
See figure 1-9. remains on.
1-23

I
 Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

NOTE

1. NO.1
GENERATOR
Nomenclature on caution lights
shown illuminated for information
only
NO.1 AC SWITCH
GENERATOR
NO.1
APU .y " "...,.
DRIVE
.I

NO.1
GENERATOR OUT
LIGHT NO.1
GENERATOR
VOLTMmR

...
TO ADF
BATTERY . MIXING CHAMBER TEMPERATURE GAGE
APU BEARING TEMPERATURE GAGE
.
BUS
.. .. COMMAND RADIO
ENGINE GOVERNOR
.
NO.1 AND 2 EQUIPMENT
COMPARTMENT BLOWERS
RADARBEACON

~ .
LIQUID OXYGEN PUMP BEARING
TEMPERATURE GAGE RAS POWER

DITBNAL
;-;; "
POWER
REeEPTACLE C
'
'

CDn_~__mm_m\_n<D

i
..: . ... .
....
.........................-...............

NO.2 AC ~
NO.2 GENERATOR
.
.: ::.
APU f1fj.
%iii
~. .
;LO
DRIVE .8 .~

.
*
NO.2 GENERATOR:1
SWITCH ,)
. .. .
...
ALTIMETER VIBRATOR MOTOR PILOT'S VENTILATED SUIT N HEATER

J.
NO.2
GENERATOR OUT
ANGLE-OF-AnACK
A mTUDE
INDICATOR
DIRECTOR INDICATOR . RATE-OF-TURN INDICATOR
STABILITY AUGMENTATION SYSTEM

..
ii
LIGHT ~ ~......

. .DATA LIGHT
FUEL QUANTITY INDICATOR
NASA INSTRUMENTATION
ELECTRONIC CONTROL
STABLEPLATFORM
TRIM CONTROL SYSTEM
NO.2 GENERATOR TRANSFORMER
VOLTMmR

.
.
ADF ANTENNA
. H,O, TANK AND ENGINE CONTROL . PROPELLANT MANIFOLD PRESSURE

. APU H~02 TANK PRESSURE GAGE

APU SOURCEPRESSUREGAGE
.
LINE PRESSURE GAGE

. GAGE

. CABIN HELIUM SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE

H,O, SOURCE AND
PRESSURE GAGE
PURGE

..
PROPEULANTPUMP INLETPRESSURE
GAGE
. CHAMBER AND STAGE 2 IGNITER . HYDRAULIC PRESSURE GAGE PROPELLANTTANK PRESSUREGAGE

. PRESSURE GAGE
PROPELLANT SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE
RA TE-OF- TURN INDICATOR

X-15-1-54-1F

Figure 1-9
1-24

I
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

EMERGENCY
BATTERY

FROM STRAIN
GAGE POWER

.. APU COOLING SWITCH .. NO.1 APU FUEL JmlSON SWITCH

. AUXILIARY LAUNCH SWITCH

ENGINE FIRE WARNING LIGHT AND .. NO.2 APU
NO. 1 BAWSTIC
FUEL JmlSON
CONTROL
SWITCH
SWITCH

.. TEST CIRCUIT
EXTERNALPOWER RELAY . NO.2
NO.1
BALLISTIC CONTROL
APU COMPARTMENT
SWITCH
OVER-

.. HELIUM RELEASE SELECTOR

NO.1 GENERATOR SWITCH
SWITCH
. HEAT LIGHT
NO.2 APU COMPARTMENT OVER-
FROM
EXTERNAL POWER
RECEPTACLE
.. NO.2 GENERATOR SWITCH
NO.1 APU SWITCH
NO.2 APU SWITCH
. HEAT LIGHT
NO. I APU
. NO.2 APU
H,O, OVERHEAT
HoOt OVERHEAT
LIGHT
LIGHT

DC VOLTMmR
SWITCH

DC
VOLTMETER

.. ADF .. NO.2 APU H,O, LOW WARNING LIGHT

. ALTERNATE CABIN PRESSURE SWITCH

. NO.1 GENERATOR-OUT WARNING LIGHT

...
ALTERNATE LONGITUDINAL NO.2 GENERATOR-oUT WARNING LIGHT

.. TRIM SWITCH
ANGLE-OF-ATTACK INDICATOR
NO.1
NO.2
HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGE
HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGE

..
BATTERY BUS CONTROL RELAY PILOT'S VENTILATED SUIT N, HEATER
BLOWERSWITCHES
CABIN SOURCE HELIUMSHUTOFF . SWITCHPROPELLANT EMERGENCY PRESSURIZA nON

.. VALVE SWITCH
COCKPIT FLOODLIGHT SWITCH . SWITCH
LIQUID OXYGEN AND AMMONIA

un ......
...................... .. COCKPIT PRESSURE SAFETY VALVE
COMMAND RADIO
..
EMERGENCY PRESSURIZATIONWARNING
LIGHTS

.. FACE MASK HEATER SWITCH RAS CONTROL

...
ENGINE INDICATOR LIGHTS RAS WARNING UGHT

.. ENGINE MASTERSWITCH
ENGINE RESETBUTTON
RATE-OF-ROLLINDICATOR
SAS TESTSWITCH

.. ...
.................. ENGINE PRECOOL SWITCH STABILITYAUGMENTATION SYSTEM
ENGINE PRIME SWITCH STABLEPLATFORM

TRANSFORMER
RECTIFIERS
.. ENGINE MASTERSWITCH
ENGINE
ENGINE
PURGE SWITCHES
H,O, COMPARTMENT
(GROUND)
HOT ..
TURBOPUMP IDLEBUTTON
TURN-AND-SLIPINDICATOR
VENTRALARMING SWITCH

.. LIGHT
FUEL LINE-LOW CAUTION LIGHT .. VENTRALJETTISON BUTTON
VENT SUIT HEATERSWITCH

.. FUEL QUANTITY
IGNITERIDLESWITCH
INDICATOR

..
VIBRATION MALRJNCTION CAUTION
LIGHT

.. INDICATOR LIGHTSTESTCIRCUITS
INTERPHONE AMPLIFIER(AIC-10)
WINDSHIELD
WING FLAP SWITCH
HEATER SWITCHES

.. JmlSON STOP SWITCHES

JETTISONTRIM SWITCHES

. NASA INSTRUMENTATION

. LONGITUDINAL TRIM SWITCH

NO.1 APU H,O,LOW WARNING
LIGHT

CD No.1 generator control relay. Energized open CD External power relay. Energized closed when
when No. 1 generator is operating. external power is applied and both generators
are oH.
c
No.2 generator control relay. Energized
when No. 2 generator is operating.
open o Battery bus control relay. Energized closed
when either generator is operating.

X-15-1-54-ZG

1-25

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

No. 2 Generator Switch. No. I Generator-out Light.

Switch positions and operation of this switch (17, figure Whenever the No. 1 generator drops "off the line, " the
1-2), on the instrument panel, are identical to those amber No. 1 generator-out caution light (14, figure
for the No. 1 generator control switch, except that, 1-2), on the instrument panel, comes on and reads
obviously, the No. 2 switch controls the No. 2 generator. "GEN OUT." The light is powered by the 28-volt pri-
mary dc bus.
Emergency Battery Switch.
No. 2 Generator-out Lip;ht.
This guarded, two-position switch (16, figure 1-2), on
the instrument panel, controls connection of the emer- Whenever the No.2 generator drops "off the line, " the
gency battery to the battery bus. Normally, the switch amber No. 2 generator-out caution light (18, figure
is in the guarded OFF position. Raising the guard and 1-2), on the instrument panel, comes on and reads
moving the switch to ON connects the emergency battery "GEN OUT." The light is powered by the 28-volt pri-
directly to the battery bus. mary dc bus.

DC Voltmeter Switch. DC Voltmeter.

This three-position switch (8, figure 1-5), on the center The dc voltmeter (7, figure 1-5), on the center pedestal,
pedestal, allows strain gage or primary dc bus voltage has a range of 0 to 30 volts, graduated in increments of
to be monitored. When the switch is at OFF, the dc one volt. This voltmeter will indicate dc battery bus and
voltmeter is disconnected. MOving the switch to STRAIN strain gage power voltage. The voltage reading selection
GAGE connects the dc voltmeter to the strain gage is through the dc voltmeter switch.
power. When the switch is at BUS, the voltmeter is
connected to the primary dc bus. HYDRAULIC POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS.

ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM INDICATORS. The airplane has a No. 1 and a No. 2 hydraulic system.
(See figure 1-10.) Airplanes AF56-6670 and -6671 also
No.1 Generator Voltmeter. have an SAS (stability augmentation system) emergency
hydraulic system. The No. 1 and No. 2 systems are
An ac voltmeter (11, figure 1-2), on the instrument independent, but operate simultaneously to supply hy-
panel, shows the No. 1 generator voltage. The instru- draulic pressure to all hydraulically operated systems
ment has a range of 0 to 250 volts, graduated in incre- of the airplane. Fluid is supplied to each hydraulic
ments of 20 volts. The voltmeter reads line-to-line, system by a reservoir, and pressure for each system
rather than line-to-neutral or line-to-ground. Thus, is maintained by a variable high-displacement pump
the reading under normal conditions should be 200 volts and a constant low-displacement pump. Each pump is
and would check availability of two phases rather than driven through a gear train from the APU. (Refer to
only one phase. (When both primary ac busses are "Auxiliary Power Units" in this section.) The hydraulic
energized by one generator or by external power, both system No.1 pump is driven by APU No.1; the system
generator voltmeters should indicate the same voltage). No.2 pump is driven by APU No.2. The hydraulic
systems supply power for operation of the aerodynamic
NOTE flight control system, speed brakes, and wing flaps.
Dual, tandem hydraulic actuators are used, so that
If either generator fails, both the No. 1 and failure or shutdown of one hydraulic system will still
No. 2 generator voltmeters will show the out- permit the other hydraulic system to operate the various
put of the remaining generator. units. Each hydraulic actuator is capable of holding
half of the maximum design hinge moment during single-
No.2 Generator Voltmeter. system operation, which is adequate for control and
landing of the airplane. The SAS pitch-roll servo cylin-
ders are powered by the No. 2 hydraulic system. The
An ac voltmeter (19, figure 1-2), on the instrument
panel, shows the No. 2 generator voltage. The in- SAS emergency hydraulic system will provide pressure
strument has a range of 0 to 250 volts, graduated in to the pitch-roll servo cylinders in case of No.2 system
increments of 20 volts. The voltmeter reads line-to- failure or shutdown of APU No.2. The stability aug-
mentation system yaw servo cylinder is powered only
line, rather than line-to-neutral or line-to-ground.
Thus, the reading under normal conditions should be by hydraulic system No. 1. The No. 1 or No. 2 hy-
200 volts and would check availability of two phases draulic system is automatically in operation whenever
rather than only one phase. (When both primary ac its respective APU is operating.
busses are energized by one generator or by external SAS EMERGENCY HYDRAULIC SYSTEM.
power, both generator voltmeters should indicate the
same voltage.)
The SAS emergency hydraulic system (figure 1-10), on
Airplanes AF56-6670 and -6671, provides hydraulic
NOTE power for the SAS pitch-roll servo cylinders in case of
failure of the No.2 hydraulic system or its related APU.
If either generator fails, both the No. 1 and The 3000 psi system consists of a hydraulic motor,
No. 2 generator voltmeters will show the out- powered by the No. 1 hydraulic system, which drives
put of the remaining generator. a variable-displacement, constant-pressure hydraulic
1-26

I
 T.O. lX-15-1 Section I

pump. A pressure-operated selector valve directs No. in the direction in which they are driven by aerodynamic
1 hydraulic system pressure to the hydraulic motor in loads by repositioning of the pilot controls in the direc-
case of No. 2 system failure. The emergency system tion to streamline the surface. The pedals, center stick,
has its own reservoir. and console stick are mechanically linked to the control
valves on their respective actuators. Movement of a
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE GAGE. pilot control results in corresponding movement of its
actuator control valve. As the actuator moves, the
A dual-movement, synchro-type gage (34, figure 1-2), control valve is repositioned to a neutral position so
on the instrument panel, indicates pressure in the No. 1 that flow to the actuator is shut off. The pressure re-
and No. 2 hydraulic systems. There are two pointers, maining in the actuator serves to hold the control sur-
numbered 1 and 2, for indicating respective system face in the desired position. Control cable rig tension
pressure. The gage has a range of 0 to 4000 psi in is maintained throughout a wide temperature and deflec-
increments of 100 psi. The pressure indicating system tion range by thermal expansion and contraction tension
receives power from the 26-volt ac bus. regulators.

HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGES. Artificial-feel and Trim Systems.

Both the No. 1 and No. 2 hydraulic systems have a gage The artificial-feel system gives a sense of control feel
(24 and 45, figure 1-2) which indicates hydraulic fluid to the pilot under all flight conditions where the aero-
temperature. The gages are calibrated in degrees cen- dynamic controls are used. Aerodynamic stick and
tigrade through the range of _1000 C to 3000 C in incre- rudder pedal forces are simulated by spring-loaded
ments of 200 C. The temperature indicating systems bungees in the control system. The bungees apply loads
receive power from the primary dc bus. to the pilot controls in proportion to stick or pedal move-
ment, but the resultant feel has no relation to actual air
FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS. loads. A nonlinear stick-to-stabilizer displacement
ratio is incorporated in the pitch control linkage to mini-
The airplane has two control systems. The aerodynamic mize sensitivity. Pitch trim is obtained by shifting the
flight control system (figure 1-10) consists of a mechan- neutral "no-load" position of the feel bungee to a stick
ical system including hydraulically actuated control position corresponding to the desired horizontal stabi-
surfaces for use at altitudes where these surfaces are lizer position. Roll and yaw trim is adjustable only on
effective for maneuvering the airplane. The ballistic the ground to compensate for airplane asymmetrical
control system (figure 1-8) is used to control the air- conditions.
plane attitude at altitudes where the aerodynamic sur-
faces are relatively ineffective. The ballistic control
Horizontal Stabilizer (Roll-Pitch Control).
system uses a monopropellant which is released through
rockets at high velocity to rotate the airplane about its
The horizontal stabilizer consists of two all-movable,
pitch, roll, and yaw axes as required for re-entry, and
to correct oscillation. one-piece surfaces which can be moved simultaneously,
differentially, or in compound. Aerodynamic control
AERODYNAMIC FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM. in pitch is obtained by simultaneous displacement of the
left and right stabilizer surfaces. Roll control is ob-
The aerodynamic flight control system incorporates tained by differential displacement of the stabilizer
hydraulically actuated yaw and pitch-roll control sur- surfaces. Combined pitch-roll control is obtained by
faces. The irreversible characteristics of the hydrau- compound movement of the stabilizer surfaces. A
lic system hold the control surfaces against any forces series of mixer bell cranks sum pilot control and SAS
that do not originate from pilot control movement and inputs to the two stabilizer actuator valves to obtain the
prevent these forces from being transmitted back to the desired pitch or roll-pitch control surface displacement.
pilot controls. Thus, aerodynamic loads of any kind
cannot reach the pilot through the controls. An artifi- Vertical Stabilizers (Yaw Control).
cial-feel system is built into the control system to
simulate feel at the pilot controls. In-flight trimming Aerodynamic control in yaw mode is obtained through
in pitch is accomplished by changing the neutral (no- displacement of the upper and ventral vertical stabi-
load) position of the artificial-feel system and reposi- lizers, which are actuated simultaneously through the
tioning the control sticks. Yaw control is provided by coupled linkage between the upper and ventral vertical
movable upper and ventral vertical stabilizers. The stabilizer actuator valves. Pilot pedal displacement
left and right horizontal stabilizers provide pitch and and SASyaw inputs are transmitted by mechanical link-
roll control, simultaneous operation for pitch control, age and cables to the synchronized upper and ventral
and differential operation for roll control. On Airplanes stabilizer control valves. Since the ventral extends
AF56-6670 and -6671, an assist to the aerodynamic below the main landing skids, it must be jettisoned be-
damping in pitch, roll, and yaw is provided by a stability fore landing. Four explosive bolts and a piston contain-
augmentation system (SAS). ing an explosive charge are electrically fired when the
ventral jettison button is depressed. If this is not done,
Flight Control Hydraulic Systems. or if the ventral fails to jettison when the button is de-
pressed, the ventral will jettison automatically when
When both hydraulic systems fail, the aerodynamic the landing gear is lowered. For either method of jetti-
control surfaces will remain in the position at which soning, however, the ventral arming switch must be at
failure occurred. However, the surfaces may be moved ARM, to arm the jettison circuits.
1-27

I
Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

NITROGEN PURGE I)
HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS AND

FLUIDLEVELGAGE
HYDRAULIC
SYSTEM NO. 1
1 ,.
POPPET POPPET HYDRAULIC
VALVE VALVE
RESERVOI R SYSTEM NO.2
RESERVOIR
RETURN FROM
RETURNFROM ~
SYSTEM NO. J Ij7
UNITS
(I SYSTEM NO.2
UNITS

HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC
SYSTEM NO. 1 SYSTEM NO.2
TEMPERATURE TEMPERATURE
GAGE GAGE

SYSTEMNO.2 PUMP
I (DRIVEN BY NO.2
GEAR TRAIN)
APU II

PRESSURE
GROUND
PRESSURE
DISCONNECT
GROUND ACCUMULATOR
DISCONNECT PRESSURE
GAGE

HYDRAULIC
SYSTEM NO.2
ACCUMUtATOR

""';:

LEFT FLAP RIGHT FLAP

HYDRAULIC
SYSTEM NO.1 CONTROL VALVE AND CONTROL VALVE AND
ACCUMULATOR ACTUATING CYLINDER ACTUATING CYLINDER

-.....;----------- . . OJ
&
- I I I I I
I
$ --r-
I r.:.
I
I J

CJ [::J
-='
LEFT FLAP FLAP RIGHTFLAP
SWITCH

_ HYDRAULIC SYSTEM NO.1 PRESSURE

UPPERSPEED
BRAKE LOWER SPEED BRAKE ... . .".." HYDRAULIC SYSTEM NO.2 PRESSURE
CONTROLVALVEAND CONTROLVALVE AND. . .. SASEMERHYDRAULICSYSTEMPRESSURE
ACTUATINGCYLINDER
ACTULlNDER NITROGEN _
PURGEOR PRESSURE
.....$ HYDRAULIC SYSTEMNO.1 RETURN
HYDRAULIC SYSTEMNO.2 RETURN
t:IJ:IIJJ SASEMERHYDRAULICSYSTEMRETURN
7ZZ2'22'ZZ HYDRAULIC
SYSTEMNO.1 SUPPLY
ZZZZZZZZZHYDRAULIC SYSTEMNO.2 SUPPLY
---:P:-' LOWER a:x:a::xx:IC SASEMERHYDRAULICSYSTEMSUPPLY I '--"" :J
.-
I
&
SPEEDBRAKE
LEVER
f-----L:lJ
SPE:ERRAKE (I....
I
====
-
-----
PUMPCASEDRAIN
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
MECHANICAL LINKAGE
I I
. I FILTER CHECK VALVE

L
I I
I I
@ MANUAL VALVE -----/

fJA UPPER
SPEEDBRAKE
LOWER
SPEEDBRAKE fJA X-15-1-58-1C

Figure 1-10. (Sheet 1 of 3)

1-28
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

NOTE
Only Airplanes AFS6-6670 and
-6671 have the SAS and the SAS
emergency hydraulic systems.

CJu
HORIZONTAL
STABILIZER
uD HORIZONTAL
STABILIZER

.I
,
I
I
I
I SAS EMER HYD
.TO
I I SYS MOTOR
I . ... 'I!I FROMSAS EMERHYD 'I"
... . I
, SYS I ,--------

I I
TO NO. 2 TO NO. J I I
I I
RESERVOIR RESERVOIR I
... I
41-
I I
I I
I
'-
I
------- 1
HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC
SYSTEM NO.2 SYSTEM NO. 1
PRESSURE RELIEF PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE VALVE
~.
___"2~H__ _

, _ _.!!!.C!!__ _______, __
...
FORWARD __ FORWARD
MIXER "
___ I ___""
. .
.
-.

%. ,
1
I ___
MIXER
BELLCRANK
BELLCRANK
:
I,
~ ROLL ..
;
::-
ROLL,'
I I
:

I I CENTERSTICK I I
I ,, 1 I
CONSOLE I ~ J
STICK I I ----
" I
I I
1
I I
I ---------
I I

I I
I I
I I
J I CONSOLE STICKROLL
' '" BOOSTER CONTROL VALVE
AND ACTUATING CYLINDER

RUDDER
-- --
(g
~ --'1--
, Q]
~
PEDALS

,__ L"_________ ---------

fim
VENTRAL
SAS YAW
SIGNAL
SAS YAW
SERVOCYLINDER
AND
UPPER VERTICAL
CONTROL VALVE AND
ACTUATING CYLINDER
STABILIZER

_m~
UPPER
VERTICAL
STABILIZER
INPUTS CONTROLVALVE
'----'"
X-15-1-52-IB

Figure 1-10. (Sheet 2 of 3)

1-29

I
 Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

SYSTEM NO.2 FROM SAS PITCH-ROll SYSTEM NO.1

PRESSURE SERVO CYLINDERS PRESSURE
~ ~ ..
SAS EMERGENCY
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

HYDRAULIC
PUMP
.
rn
. HYDRAULIC
MOTOR
.. ..
. .
:. $.
. .
... . .-eo.
. ...
.. SELECTOR VALVE
(Normal position shown. No.2
hydraulic system operating.)
IJI
...
SELECTOR VALVE
(Emergency position shown. No.2 hy.
draulic system no' functioning properly.)

.
.
~ .
.
...
_ . . . . .-eo.. . . ..
TO SAS PITCH-ROll SERVO
CYLINDERS AND CONTROL VALVES

X-15-1-52-4A

Figure 1-10. (Sheet 3 of 3)

Aerodynamic Flight Controls and Indicator. button on the console stick is in parallel with the micro-
phone button on the center stick.
Center Stick. The center stick (figure 1-11) is designed
for use during normal periods of longitudinal and vertical Rudder Pedals. Conventional rudder pedals, which are
acceleration. Pilot pitch and roll inputs to the center adjustable, are mechanically linked to the yaw system
stick are summed by the mixer bell cranks and applied mixer bell crank. Pedal movement and SAS inputs are
to the horizontal stabilizer actuator valves. A micro-
summed by a mixer bell crank, which in turn trans-
phone button and alternate trim switch are on the stick mits the summed signal mechanically to the stabilizer
grip. The button is in parallel with the microphone but- actuator control valves.
ton on the console stick.

Console Stick. The console stick (figure 1-11), on the Horizontal Stabilizer Position Indicator. A horizontal
right console, enables the pilot to control the airplane stabilizer position indicator (figure 1-11), .on the right
throughout the periods of high longitudinal and vertical vertical side panel, provides a quick reference to the
accelerations. This stick has full range of surface position of the horizontal stabilizer before re-entry.
control in pitch and roll and is coupled to the center The forward end of the inboard face of the indicator is
stick linkage through separate pitch and roll hydraulic labeled "DIVE"; the aft end, "CLIMB." On the top of
boost actuators to reduce console stick pilot control the indicator is a scale calibrated in increments of 5
forces and to synchronize displacement of the center degrees, from 0 to 15 degrees stabilizer leading-edge
and console sticks. The console stick has a pitch trim up, and from 0 to 35 degrees stabilizer leading-edge
knob and a microphone button. The trim knob is grad- down. A red index marker is attached to the console
uated in degrees. When the trim control switch is in stick shaft so that as the stick is moved, the marker
NORMAL, moving the trim knob causes corresponding will point to the corresponding horizontal stabilizer
movement of the pitch trim actuator. A microphone position on the scale. .
1-30

I
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

1
"

a.
240-94-87G

CONSOLE STICK

ALTERNATE

TRIM SWITCH \

FS-419
TRIM CONTROL SWITCH
CENTER STICK

X-15-1-52-2F

Figure 1-11.
1-31

I
 Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

Trim Control Switch. This two-position switch (14, to the aerodynamic flight control system about the pitch,
figure 1-3), on the left console, controls selection of roll, and yaw axes. (See figure 1-10.) Major com-
normal or alternate trim. With the switch at the main- ponents of the system are a three-axis gyro, an elec-
tained NORMALposition, the center stick trim control tronic case assembly, two pitch-roll servo cylinders,
knob is inoperative and primary ac and dc power is one yaw servo cylinder, and a gain selector switch as-
applied to the electronic trim amplifier and relay unit sembly. In-flight testing of the SAS channels can be
to activate the console stick pitch trim knob. Movement done by use of an in-flight test unit controlled from the
of the pitch trim knob on the console stick then causes cockpit. The SAS has fundamentally three semi-
primary dc power to be applied to the pitch trim actu- independent channels, each comprising a working circuit,
ator. With the trim control switch at the maintained a monitor circuit, and a malfunction detector. Each
ALTERNATE position, output of the electronic trim working circuit received its commands from the gyro
amplifier is cut off, the pitch trim knob is inoperative, assembly in its particular axis and in turn commands
and pitch trim is accomplished through the alternate associated servo cylinder displacement. The monitor
trim switch on the center control stick. circuits receive commands from the gyro assembly
identical to those of the control circuits. The mal-
Alternate Trim Switch. This three-position switch on function detectors compare the commands passing
the center stick grip (figure 1-11) controls primary dc through the monitor circuits with the associated servo
bus power to the pitch trim actuator. The switch is cylinder displacement. If a predetermined error be-
spring-loaded to the center position, and all positions tween the working and monitor circuits is exceeded,
are unmarked. With the switch in the center position the malfunction detector locks out the particular channel
and the trim control switch at NORMAL, primary dc in which the error occurred. The working circuit
bus power is applied to the electronic trim amplifier command to the associated servo cylinders is an elec-
and relays, and pitch trim is accomplished by move- trical signal which drives an electro-hydraulic transfer
ment of the pitch trim knob. Moving the alternate trim valve on the servo cylinder. The transfer valve controls
switch forward (NCX3E DOWN)or aft (NrnE UP) bypasses hydraulic pressure on each side of the servo cylinder
the electronic trim amplifier and applied primary dc bus piston. The pitch-roll servo cylinders, powered by the
power directly to the pitch trim actuator, causing the No.. 2 hydraulic system, are mechanically linked to the
actuator to move for nose down or nose up trim, as horizontal stabilizer control linkage by mixer bell cranks
selected. and move surfaces by simultaneous movement of the bell
cranks. Roll is achieved by differential movement of the
bell cranks. In addition, loss of No. 2 hydraulic system
presslU'e will automatically engage the SAS emergency
hydraulic system. Slx>uldan abrupt loss of No. 2 system
presslU'e OCClU',the pitch and roll damping channels may
If the trim control switch is moved from ALTER- trip. If this OCClU'S,they must be reset. The yaw servo
NATE to NORMAL, the pitch trim actuator will cylinder, powered by the No. 1 hydraulic system, is
run to the preset position of the pitch trim knob. mechanically linked to the vertical stabilizer control
linkage through a mixer bell crank and moves surfaces
Ventral Arming Switch. This guarded, two-position by movement of the bell crank. An interaction of the
switch (28, figure 1-2) is on the instrument panel right- yaw and toll damping working circuits is provided
hand wing and is labeled "VENTRAL JETT." With the whereby signals from the yaw axis of the gyro are fed
switch at DE-ARM, the circuit which controls primary into the roll circult to augment roll damping. This is
dc bus power to the explosive bolts and explosive charge referred to as the "yar" function. The SASis powered
in the ventral jettison piston is interrupted and the ven- from the No. 2 primary ac bus and the primary dc bus
tral cannot be jettisoned either selectively through the and is in ready status continuously as long as these
ventral jettison button or automatically when the landing busses are powered.
gear is lowered. With the switch at ARM, the ventral
jettison circuit is armed.
Ventral Jettison Button. This jettison button (68, figure
1-2), labeled "VENTRAL JETT, " is recessed within a
circular guard on the instrument panel left wing. The
button is powered by the primary dc bus and is the pri-
mary means of jettisoning the ventral. When the button
is depressed, with the ventral arming switch at ARM,
o The 28-volt dc SAS circuit breaker must be o
four explosive-type bolts and a piston containing an closed (pushed in) before the airplane is fueled,
explosive cartridge are fired. At the instant the bolts and must be kept closed until the end of the
separate, the piston is driven downward to forcibly flight, so that the SAS gyro heaters will be
jettison the ventral. energized to prevent freezing damage to the
gyro
Hydraulic Pressure Gage. Refer to "Hydraulic Power
Supply Systems" in this section. o Airplane AF56-6672 has an MH-96 adaptive
flight control system installed for test pur-
STABll..ITY AUGMENTATION SYSTEM (SAS). poses, in place of the SAS and reaction aug-
mentation system. For information on the
The stability augmentation system (SAS), installed on MH-96 system, refer to MH Aero Report No.
Airplane AF56-6670 and -6671 provides damping inputs 2373-TM1, Volumes I through Vill.
1-32

I
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

Stability Augmentation System Controls and Indicators. yaw signals are applied to the SASroll control circuit.
Both switch positions are maintained.
All stability augmentation system controls and indi-
cators are on the SAS control panel on the center NOTE
pedestal.
If the roll function switch is at STDBY or the
Pitch Function Switch. This two-position switch, (17, roll control circuit does not function properly,
figure 1-5), labeled "PITCH, " controls the SAS pitch yaw input to the SAS roll control circuit will
channel circuitry. Both switch positions are main- neutralize roll and result in a "no roll" output.
tained. With the switch at STDBY, the pitch channel
is functioning, but the input signals to the servo cyl- Gain Selector Knobs. Three gain selector knobs (4,
inder control valves and hydraulic pressure to the servo 13, and 14, figure 1-5) control, through selection of
cylinders are shut off. With the switch at ENGAGE, fixed resistors, the ratio of pitch, roll, and yaw damp-
pitch damping signals are applied to the pitch-roll ing signal to servo cylinder displacement. There are
servo cylinder control valves, which in turn permits 10 switch positions; the third position is designated as
hydraulic power to be applied to the servo cylinders. LO, and the ninth is designated as HI. Pitch gain is
The switch is powered by the primary dc bus. controlled by thE left knob, roll gain by the center knob,
and yaw gain by the right knob. For a given gyro sig-
NOTE nal, servo cylinder displacement is lowest with a knob
at position 1, and the highest at position 10.
If both the pitch and roll function switches are
at STDBY, the pitch-roll servo cylinders are NOTE
centered and locked.
Gain selector knob positions to be used in flight
Roll Function Switch. This two-position switch, (16, depend on damping requirements the pilot con-
figure 1-5), labeled "ROLL," is powered by the primary siders necessary. However, the initial setting
dc bus. It controls the SAS roll channel circuitry. depends on the particular flight conditions.
With the switch at STDBY, the roll channel is operating,
but the input signals to the servo cylinder control valves
SAS Caution Li!;hts. Four placard-type amber caution
and hydraulic pressure to the servo cylinders are shut
lights (1, figure 1-5) indicate operating status of the
off. With the switch at ENGAGE, roll damping signals
SAS control circuits. The lights are powered by the
are applied to the pitch-roll servo cylinder control
primary dc bus and can be tested through the indicator,
valves, which in turn permits hydraulic power to be caution, and warning light test circuit. There is one
applied to the servo cylinders. Both switch positions
are maintained. light for each of the pitch, roll, yaw, and "yar" chan-
nels. When the lights are on, they read "PITCH, "
NOTE "ROLL, " ''YAW, "and "YAR, "respectively. The pitch,
roll, and yaw lights are on when the pitch, roll, and
If both the pitch and roll function switches are yaw function switches are at STDBY. When anyone
at STDBY, the pitch-roll servo cylinders are of these switches is at ENGAGE and its control circuit
centered and locked. is operating normally, the associated caution light is
out. When the circuit error exceeds the predetermined
Yaw Function Switch. The yaw function switch (3, limit, the associated caution light blinks at approxi-
figure 1-5), labeled "YAW, " has two maintained posi- mately a 4-cycle-per-second rate, and the affected
tions. The switch is powered by the primary dc bus. channel is automatically disabled. If the error re-
With the switch at STDBY, the SAS yaw channel is turns to within limits, the function switch must be
moved to STDBY to reset the channel and then back to
operating, but the input signals to the servo cylinder
control valve and hydraulic pressure to the servo cyl- ENGAGE in order to restore the channel to operation.
inder are shut off and the yaw servo cylinder is centered If the error is still out of limits, the function switch
and locked. With the switch at ENGAGE, yaw damping may be returned to STDBY and the caution light will be
signals are applied to the yaw servo cylinder control constantly on. The "YAR" caution light shows only the
valve, which in turn permits hydraulic power to be "yar" function switch position. When the switch is at
applied to the servo cylinder. STDBY, the light is on. When the switch is at ENGAGE
and the "yar" signal is available to the roll channels,
the light is out. Any error in the "yar" circuit ex-
NOTE
ceeding the established limits is monitored by the roll
channel malfunction detector and causes the roll caution
Shutoff or failure of hydraulic system No. 1 light to come on.
automatically causes the yaw servo cylinder
to recenter and lock.
SAS Test Switch. The three-position SAS test switch
(15, figure 1-5) is on the center pedestal. The switch
"Yar" Function Switch. This two-position switch, (2, is powered by the primary dc bus. It has momentary
figure 1-5), labeled ''YAR, " is powered by the primary WORK and MON positions and a spring-loaded OFF
dc bus. The switch controls the yaw signal input to the position. While the pitch, roll, and yaw damping chan-
SAS roll control circuit. With the switch at STDBY, nels are engaged, singly or in combination, their work-
the "yar" signal circuit is inoperative. With the switch ing and monitor circuits can be tested during captive
at ENGAGEwhile the roll function switch is at ENGAGE, or free flight. Placing the switch at either WORK or
1-33

.
I
Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

MON opens the associated rate gyro ground circuits are maintained for all three axes of operation by spring
(working or monitor) and inserts a calibrated test volt- bungees. For the pitch and yaw axes, an increase in
age in series with the pick-offs. This voltage is added force versus deflection rate of the ballistic control
to the normal output of the gyro and, if the gain selector stick marks half of the maximum control travel and
knobs are set to prespecified positions, the test voltage half of the maximum force. Thus, the pilot feels the
unbalances the SAS channels beyond the expected trip mid-point of maximum opening of the metering valve.
level of the SAS malfunction detectors. If the SAS is The acceleration and velocity of airplane movement
functioning properly, the SAS caution lights for the about an axis vary with the amount and duration of bal-
channels being tested will blink, signifying malfunction listic control stick application. The velocity tends to
circuit operation. Mter each set of circuits (working sustain itself after the stick is returned to the neutral
or monitoring) is tested, the SAS channels must be position. A subsequent stick movement opposite to the
re-engaged. initial one is required to cancel the original attitude
change. The No. 1 ballistic control system rockets
NOTE also are used by the reaction augmentation system,
which is installed on Airplanes AF56-6670 and -6671.
The "yar" function switch must be at STDBY Refer to "Reaction Augmentation System (RAS)" in
during the tests. this section. If either ballistic control system fails,
the other system provides adequate power to control
BALLISTIC CONTROL SYSTEM. the airplane. A transitional altitude band exists wherein
it will be necessary to use the ballistic control system
The ballistic control system is used to control airplane and the aerodynamic flight controls simulianeously for
attitude at flight altitudes where aerodynamic flight con- maneuvering and controlling airplane attitude. The
trols are ineffective. Ballistic control is provided by size of this transitional band is somewhat affected by
two independent systems which normally are operated airplane speed and the amount of maneuvering or atti-
simultaneously. Each system uses a monopropellant tude change required.
which is converted by catalytic action to superheated
steam and oxygen and is released through small rockets Ballistic Control System Controls.
in the nose section and wings. Figure 1-8 illustrates
schematically the operation of one system of the ballistic Ballistic Control Switches. The No. 1 and No. 2 bal-
controls. Operation of the other system is identical. listic control switches (36, figure 1-2), on the instru-
The reaction of the escaping gas causes the airplane ment panel, are powered by the primary dc bus. Moving
to move about the selected axis or combination of either switch to ON simultaneously opens the helium
axes. The monopropellant, hydrogen peroxide, is shutoff valve and the propellant feed system jettison
supplied from the APU and ballistic control propellant and ballistic control valve for the respective system
feed system. (Refer to "APU and Ballistic Control and allows hydrogen peroxide to flow to the metering
Propellant Feed Systems" in this section.) The hy- valves. With either switch at OFF, the propellant feed
drogen peroxide tank which supplies the No. 1 APU system jettison and ballistic control valve for the re-
also supplies the No. 1 system of the ballistic con- spective system is turned off. However, the helium
trols. The tank which supplies the No. 2 APU also shutoff valve will not close as long as either APU switch
supplies the No. 2 system of the ballistic controls. is at ON.
Movement of the ballistic control stick in the cockpit
opens a metering valve, allowing the monopropellant NOTE
to enter the selected rockets. In the rockets, the hy-
drogen peroxide enters catalyst chambers, where it is When either APU switch is at JETT, the feed
decomposed into a high-pressure gas mixture of super- system jettison and ballistic control valve for
heated steam and oxygen. The gases then exhaust the related system of the ballistic controls
through the nozzles. The reaction of the escaping gases closes and shuts down that system.
causes the airplane to move about the selected axis in a
direction opposite to that of the escaping gases. There Ballistic Control Stick. The ballistic control stick
are six rockets in each system. One system includes (figure 1-11), above the left console, is mechanically
four rockets in the nose and the two left wing rockets. connected to the system metering valves. When the
The other system includes the remaining four rockets ballistic control system is operating, moving the stick
in the nose and the two right wing rockets. A dual positions the metering valves to allow flow of hydrogen
metering valve controls flow of the monopropellant to peroxide to the selected rockets in the nose and wings.
the eight nose rockets for pitch and yaw, and a dual Yaw control is obtained by direct left or right move-
metering valve controls flow of the monopropellant to ment of the stick. For left yaw, the stick must be
the four wing rockets for roll. Flow of the monopro- moved directly to the left. Roll control is obtained
pellant to the metering valves is controlled by two by rotation of the stick. For left roll, the stick must
switches in the cockpit, one for each system. With be rotated to the left (counterclockwise). Pitch control
both systems operating, a nose-down selection from is obtained by direct up or down movement of the stick.
the cockpit causes operation of the two rockets in the An airplane nose-up pitch change is obtained by raising
top of the nose section. A nose-right selection from the stick.
the cockpit causes operation of the two rockets in the
left side of the nose. A right-roll selection from the Nose Ballistic Rocket Heater Switch. The nose bal-
cockpit causes operation of the rocket whose nozzle is listic rocket heater switch (27, figure 1-2), on the
in the bottom of the left wing and the rocket whose noz- instrument panel right-hand wing, receives electrical
zle is in the top of the right wing. Stick force gradients power from the carrier airplane. Moving this switch
1-34
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

'14'1

X-15-1-52-5
- ----------

Figure 1-12.

to ON during captive flight starts the electric heaters dc bus. The system is protected by circuit breakers
on the ballistic control system rockets in the nose of in the equipment bay.
the X-15 to preheat the rockets. After launch, this
switch is inoperative. Reaction Augmentation System Controls and Indicator.

REACTION AUGMENTATION SYSTEM (RAS).

All reaction augmentation system controls are on the
RAS control panel (figure 1-12) above the left console
aft of the ballistic control stick.
The reaction augmentation system (RAS) installed on
Airplanes AF56-6670 and -6671, provides rate damping Accelerometer Switch. The two-position accelerometer
to aid airplane control and minimize pilot overcontrol switch on the RAS control panel is labeled "ACCEL. "
when the ballistic control system is used. The RAS Moving the switch to AUTO engages the automatic cutoff.
conserves APU and BCS H202 supply by minimizing With the switch at AUTO, the automatic cutoff of the
pilot overcontrol tendencies at low acceleration levels. RAS will occur when a preset level of normal acceler-
The RAS is incorporated in the No.1 ballistic control ation is sensed. When automatic cutoff occurs, an
system and uses the rocket motors associated with that indicator light comes on. To reset the automatic cutoff
system. Pilot control of both system No. 1 and No. 2 feature, the switch is moved to OFF, then returned to
rocket motors is still maintained. Whenever the bal- AUTO. The OFF position of the switch disengages only
listic control stick is in neutral, the RAS gyro accel- the automatic cutoff feature.
erometer assembly senses angular rate a~l~t the three
axes and at a preset angular rate, a switcning system Pitch Switch. The two-position pitch switch on the RAS
is energized to fire the proper No. 1 system rocket
control panel has ENGAGE and STANDBY positions.
motor to reduce the sensed angular a<6celeration. The Moving the switch to ENGAGE closes the pitch circuit
RAS is automatically turned off by means of an and permits operation of the proper pitch rocket motor
acceleration-sensing device upon a build-up of G, which
corresponds to an increase in the effectiveness of the by the RAS. With the switch a,t STANDBY, the pitch
output circuit is opened.
aerodynamic controls. The RAS can be overridden by
the pilot in case of a failure. The RAS is in a stand-by
condition whenever power is applied to the airplane Roll-Switch. The two-position roll switch on the RAS
and is engaged by switches in the cockpit. Any combina- control panel has ENGAGE and STANDBY positions.
tion of the three axes can be selected individually as Moving the switch to ENGAGE closes the roll circuit
desired. An indicator light in the cockpit shows when and permits the operation of the proper roll rocket
the RAS is in stand-by. Electrical power for the RAS motor by the RAS. With the switch at STANDBY, the
is obtained from the No. 1 primary ac bus and primary roll output circuit is opened.

1-35

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

Yaw Switch. The two-position yaw switch on the RAS of one hydraulic system still permits operation of the
control panel has ENGAGE and STANDBY positions. speed brakes, however, at reduced rate under any
Moving the switch to ENGAGE closes the yaw circuit particular air load. The actuator valves are controlled
and permits operation of the proper yaw rocket motor from the cockpit by a system of cables and mechanical
by the RAS. With the switch at STANDBY, the yaw linkage. Follow-up mechanisms permit positioning
output circuit is opened. each speed brake to any position between fully closed
and fully open.
RAS-out Indicator Light. The RAS-out indicator light
(12, figure 1-2), on the instrument panel, receives NOTE
primary dc bus from the gyro accelerometer assembly
and comes on to show "RAS OUT" whenever automatic Each speed brake actuator incorporates a relief
cutoff occurs or if the control switches of all three valve which prevents the speed brake from ex-
axes are at STANDBY. Moving anyone of the three tending or allows the speed brake to retract
switches to ENGAGE turns off the light if the automatic under excessive air loads, to prevent structural
cutoff circuit has not been tripped. If the light is on damage.
because of automatic cutoff, the automatic cutoff cir-
cuitry can be reset by moving the accelerometer switch
to OFF, then to AUTO, to put out the light. The light I WARNING'
can be tested by means of the indicator, caution, and
warning light switch.
The speed brakes on this airplane were not
MH-96 ADAPTIVE FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM. designed for use as a low-speed drag device;
opening them at subsonic speeds can be dan-
The MH-96 adaptive flight control system is installed gerous. Their design function is to provide
for test purposes on Airplane AF56-6672. For infor- necessary drag conditions for control of the
mation on description and operation of this system, airplane at supersonic speeds and relatively
refer to MH Aero Report 2373-TM1, Volumes I through high altitudes.
VIII.
SPEED BRAKE HANDLES_.
WING FLAP SYSTEM.
The speed brake handles (11 and 12, figure 1-3) are on
the left console. The inboard handle controls the lower
Flap position is controlled by an electromechanical
actuator, containing two electric motors that are speed brake; the outboard handle controls the upper
coupled together by a set of differential gears. The speed brake. The handles normally are locked together
output of this actuator drives a push-pull cable system by an interconnecting bolt at the forward cable sectors
which opens the valves in the dual, tandem hydraulic to ensure symmetrical operation of the speed brakes.
flap actuators and hydraulically positions the flaps to A spring-loaded lock lever on the inboard handle is
either full up or full down. Flap extension is possible designed to unlock the handles for independent speed
even if one motor fails; however, the extension time is brake operation and lock them for symmetrical opera-
approximately twice the normal time. Normal extension tion if the interconnecting bolt is not installed. Speed
from full up to full down position requires about 8 to 10 brake position is indicated by a scale for each handle
seconds. No provisions have been made for automatic on the speed brake handle quadrant. The scales are
pitch correction with flap extension, nor for inter- calibrated in increments of 5 degrees. When the handles
mediate positioning of the flaps. However, because are moved to a given setting, the speed brakes will
of the incorporation of hydraulic relief valves to limit open to the position selected.
the maximum air load on the surfaces, the flaps may LAUNCH SYSTEM
partially close at speeds above 250 knots. No flap
position indicator is provided.
The dropping of this airplane from the carrier airplane
WING FLAP SWITCH is normally performed by the pilot of the carrier air-
plane. Howeve r, if this cannot be done, the captive
A two-position switch (8, figure 1-3) is on the left airplane is equipped with an auxiliary launch switch to
vertical side panel. The switch, labeled "FLAP, " perform this function from a separate power source.
controls flap operation, and is powered by the primary
dc bus. It has two positions, UP and DOWN. No inter-
A switch in the captive airplane controls an indicator
light in the carrier airplane to indicate that the pilot of
c
mediate positioning is provided. the captive airplane is ready for launch.
SPEED BRAKE SYSTEM. READY-TO-LAUNCH SWITCH.

The airplane has two speed brakes, one on the fixed The ready-to-Iaunch switch (15, figure 1-3), on the
portion of the upper vertical stabilizer and the other left console, is moved forward (ON) to light the "READY
on the fixed lower vertical stabilizer. Each speed TO LA UNCH" indicator light in the carrier airplane
brake consists of two symmetrical panels, hinged at when the captive airplane is ready to be dropped. There
the forward end. Each speed brake is operated by a is no indicator light in the captive airplane. Moving
dual, tandem hydraulic actuator. One segment of an the ready-to-Iaunch switch aft (OFF) turns out the indi-
actuator is powered from hydraulic system No.1; the cator light. This circuit is powered by the carrier
other segment, by hydraulic system No.2. Failure airplane's electrical system.
1-36

I
 T. O. lX-15-1 SectionI

AUXILIARYLAUNCH SWITCH. NOTE

The guarded, battery-bus-powered auxiliary launch For information regarding instruments that are
switch (66, figure 1-2), on the instrument panel left an integral part of a particular system, refer
wing, uses primary dc bus power to operate the hy- to applicable paragraphs in this section and
Section IV.
draulic launch system in the carrier airplane. Lifting
the guard and moving the switch up (ON) supplies power PITOT-STATIC SYSTEM.
directly to the solenoid valve in the normal launch hy-
draulic system.
Pitot pressure for the conventional airspeed indicator
and altimeter is supplied by the fuselage-mounted pitot
LANDING GEAR SYSTEM. head. Static pressure is supplied by ports on each side
of the fuselage forward of the cockpit area. The ball
nose (1, figure 1-1) is a sphere-shaped, pitot-pressure,
The two main landing gears are of the skid type and flow-direction sensor. The ball simultaneously meas-
lie adjacent to the lower aft fuselage and parallel to ures angle of attack and angle of sideslip through two
the airplane centerline when retracted. The skids (27, complete and independent servo systems. One system
figure 1-1) are mounted on inflexible struts with an controls the vertical and one the horizontal axis. As
air-oil shock absorber attached to the upper end which the airplane encounters a sideslip condition or change
permits some outward rotation when the weight of the in angle of attack, the respective system will turn the
airplane is on the landing gear. The nose gear (3, fig- ball (electrohydraulically) into the relative wind. The
ure 1-1) is a conventional, nonsteerable, dual-wheel difference between airplane heading and relative wind
type and retracts forward, fairing into the fuselage nose is then transmitted through sensors to cockpit instru-
section. Both the main and nose gear, when unlocked, ments to read angle of attack and angle of sideslip.
extend by gravity and air loads. However, the nose Electrically, the ball nose is powered through the in-
gear lowering system includes an initiator to ensure strumentation transformer, which in turn is powered
positive nose gear lowering. They cannot be retracted by the No. 2 primary ac bus. Hydraulic power for the
by the pilot. No gear-down indication is provided. ball nose is provided from the No. 1 hydraulic system.
Gear retraction must be accomplished manually by If hydraulic system No. 1 fails, the ball nose will not
ground personneL When the main gear is released, turn in response to sensor signals. In this event, the
a microswitch on the left main gear activates an ex- angle-of-attack and sideslip indicators, although in-
plosive charge, causing the ventral to jettison, pro- operative, will provide erroneous indications, as they
vided the ventral arming switch is at ARM and if the will continue to register the conditions at the time of
ventral had not been previously jettisoned by use of the the power failure. In case of electrical failure, the
ventral jettison button. indicators may show a continually unsafe condition.

LANDING GEAR HANDLE. Ball Nose Test Button. This push-button type switch
on the center pedestal (figure 1-5) is labeled "BALL
NOSE TEST" and is used to test operation of the ball
The T-type landing gear handle (67, figure 1-2) is on nose in flight. Depressing and holding the button ap-
the instrument panel left wing. The handle is mechan- plies an error signal to the ball nose transducers.
ically linked to the main gear uplocks and the nose gear This error signal electrically simulates a predetermined
and nose gear door uplocks. When the handle is pulled airplane sideslip angle and angle of attack, which are
straight aft approximately 11 inches, the uplocks are presented on the angle-of-attack indicator and vertical
released, the spring-loaded scoop door in the nose gear and horizontal pointers on the attitude indicator. When
door swings downward into the airstream, and the nose the button is released, the ball nose should drive rapidly
gear extension initiator fires. Gravity and air loads to an extreme position, resulting in full-scale deflection
cause the main gear to extend and lock. Air loads on of the angle-of-attack indicator pointer and vertical and
the nose gear scoop door force the nose gear down and horizontal pointers on the attitude indicator. This in-
locked. (The initiator actuates a piston which forces dication should be maintained for about 2 to 3 seconds;
the nose gear door open under flight attitudes where then the ball nose should drive rapidly without overshoot
air loads tend to hold the door closed. ) to indicate the actual airplane sideslip angle and angle
of attack.
NOTE

Full-scale deflection of the angle-of-attack

indicator pointer and vertical and horizontal
The landing gear handle should be manually pointers on the attitude indicator when the button
stowed to prevent possible damage to the in- is released and the subsequent return to normal
strument panel. readings, are positive indications of proper
operation of the ball nose.
INSTRUMENTS. ACCELEROMETER.

. Most of the instruments

electrical
are powered by the ac or dc
systems or a combination of both.
A three-pointer accelerometer (5, figure 1-2), on the
instrument panel, shows positive and negative G-loads.
1-37

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

One pointer continuously indicates acceleration forces. in this system is operated with no angular range limita-
Two recording pointers indicate maximum positive and tions or tumbling effects inherent in conventional gyro
negative G encountered. The recording pointers may equipment. The system displays primary flight data
be reset by clockwise movement of the reset knob on to the X-15 pilot and transmits this data to recorders
the lower left corner of the instrument. in the X-15 Airplane. The system is divided functionally
into two groups. The first group, in the X-15, con-
ALTIMETER. sists of the platform, computer, and flight instruments,
which present attitude, velocity, and aliitude indications.
The altimeter (2, figure 1-2), on the instrument panel, This equipment supplies all the required data after the
has standard 1000- and 100-foot pointers and a 10, 000- X-15 is launched. The platform itself has four inde-
foot pointer extending from a movable center disk to pendent gimbals that permit unlimited maneuvers about
the edge of the dial, so that it cannot be obscured by the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical axes. It also has
the other pointers. The center disk also has a wedge- three gyros and three accelerometers. The second
shaped cutout through which a set of warning strips group, in the carrier airplane, is used to supply the
appear at altitudes below 16,000 feet. This altimeter proper initial conditions to the computer and thus align
offers improved readability and gives warning when an and stabilize the platform before launch. A control
altitude of less than 16,000 feet is entered. panel in the carrier airplane enables an operator to
continuously monitor performance of the flight data
AIRSPEED INDICATOR. system before launch, and to preset the required cali-
brations to the X-15 through an umbilical cord. In
The airspeed indicator (3, figure 1-2), on the instru- captive flight, the system is slaved to compass and
ment panel, shows indicated airspeed within a range velocity-measuring equipment in the carrier airplane.
of 100 to 900 knots with a conventional-type pointer. During free flight, the system dead-reckons from the
Visible through a window on the face of the indicator launch point.
is a vernier drum which has a range of 0 to 100 knots.
This permits reading of airspeed to the nearest knot
STABLE PLATFORM SYSTEM CONTROLS AND
through a range of 0 to 1000 knots. The airspeed indi-
cator is the primary flight instrument for indicating INDICA TORS.
speed during landing.
NOTE
ANGLE-OF-ATTACK INDICATOR.
In referring to electrical power sources in the
A remote-type angle-of-attack indicator (4, figure following paragraphs, it is considered that the
1-2), on the instrument panel, is electrically driven by stable platform switch is positioned at INT and
power from both the No. 2 primaryac and primary dc that the system controls and indicators are being
busses. The ball nose measures the angle between the powered from the X-15 Airplane.
relative wind and the fuselage reference line. The
attack angle so determined is then transmitted to the Stable Platform Power Switch.
indicator. The indicator has a range from 10 degrees
nose down to 40 degrees nose up. The stable platform power switch (26, figure 1-2) pro-
vides a means for selecting stable platform power,
RATE-OF-ROLL INDICATOR. either from the carrier airplane or from the X-15.
The switch is on the instrument panel right wing and
is labeled "STABLE PLATF PWR." It has three main-
A rate-of-roll indicator (48, figure 1-2), on the instru-
ment panel, is electrically powered by the primary dc tained positions: INT, EXT, and OFF. The OFF posi-
bus. The rate-of-roll indicator indicates the roll rate tion is a detent position. To move the switch from
in degrees per second for right and left roll from 0 to OFF, the switch must be pulled out of the detent.
200 degrees per second. Moving the switch to INT energizes the platform with
No.2 primary ac bus power from the APU's of the
INERTIAL ALL-ATTITUDE FLIGHT DATA SYSTEM X-15.
(GYRO-STABILIZED PLATFORM). NOTE
NOTE Do not turn the stable platform switch to INT
when the APU's are off. o
For convenience of presentation, the inertial
all-attitude flight data system henceforth is
referred to as the stable platform system. When the switch is moved to EXT, the system is ener-
gized by power units in the carrier airplane.
The stable platform system is essentially a navigating
system designed to function over the earth within a NOTE
high range area, approximately 720 miles long and 240
miles wide. Primarily, the system provides an atti- The switch should be moved from EXT to INT
tude, velocity, and height record in a flight environ- just before launch. However, if this is not
ment in which conventional flight reference instruments done, power will be automatically transferred
cease to function (that is, during prolonged operation from the carrier airplane to the X-15 at time
at high altitudes and Mach numbers). The equipment of launch.
1-38

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

Turning the switch to OFF shuts off all power to the angle set control. Immediately after launch, the pilot
platform system. rotates the airplane to the pitch angle that is preset on
the pitch angle set control. Initially, the sphere is used
Stable Platform Instrument Switch. to approximate this angle. As the airplane approaches
to within 5 degrees of the preselected pitch angle, the
This two-position switch on the center pedestal (figure small pitch pointer moves toward the center index (0).
1-5) is labeled "STABLE PLATF INST." The switch The pilot then switches his attention from the sphere
controls power to the stable platform indicators in the to the pointer for fine adjustments. The pointer will
cockpit. It is used during ground checks of the stable remain at the zero position as long as the preset pitch
platform system to interrupt power to the instruments angle is maintained. A turn-and-slip indicator is on
when their operation is not required to perform the the lower portion of the instrument below the bank angle
check-out. With the switch at OFF, power to the stable scale. The rate-of-turn needle is powered by the
platform instruments is interrupted. Except during 26-volt ac bus and the No. 2 primary ac bus. Imme-
ground checks, the switch must be at ON. diately after electrical power is applied, an "OFF"
flag on the lower left section of the indicator retracts.
Attitude Indicator. Failure of either dc or ac power causes the "OFF" flag
to reappear.
The attitude indicator (6, figure 1-2), on the instrument
panel, is powered by the primary dc bus and the No. 2 Pitch-angle Set Control.
primary ac bus. It is a pictorial-type instrument that
combines displays of attitude and azimuth on a uni-
A pitch-angle set control (8, figure 1-2), powered by
versally mounted sphere displayed as the background
the primary dc bus and the No. 1 primary ac bus, is
for a miniature reference airplane. The sphere (re-
on the instrument panel, next to the attitude indicator.
motely controlled by the stable platform) is free to
The control is used in conjunction with the small pitch
rotate 360 degrees in pitch, roll, and azimuth. The
pointer on the attitude indicator. The angle that is set
miniature reference airplane is always in proper phys-
on this control is the pitch angle the pilot will attain for
ical relationship to the simulated earth, horizon, and
either the climb or the re-entry phase of a mission.
sky areas of the background sphere. The horizon on
The instrument consists of four counters and a pitch
the sphere is represented as a solid white line. On
angle set controller knob and lever. Rotating the knob
this horizon line is an azimuth scale graduated in 5-
clockwise sets up the desired pitch angle on three of
degree markings from 0 through 360 degrees. Above
the horizon line, the sky is indicated by a light-gray the counters. The number on the far right counter is
area. Below the horizon line, the earth is indicated preceded by a dot to indicate the reading is in tenths
of a degree. Counter range is from 0 to 90 to permit
by a dull-black area. The sphere is marked by meri-
selection of any pitch angle up to 90 degrees. Rotating
dian lines spaced every 30 degrees. Pitch angle is the knob counterclockwise returns the three counters
referenced to the center dot of the fixed miniature
to O. The lever, adjacent to the knob, can be rotated
airplane by horizontal marks spaced every 10 degrees
on the meridians. A pitch-adjustment knob on the lower upward or downward to change the sign (negative or
right side of the instrument electrically rotates the positive) of the selected pitch angle. When the lever is
sphere to the proper position in relation to the miniature moved upward, a minus (-) sign shows on the left
airplane to correct for pitch attitude changes. Clock- counter; downward movement produces a plus (+) sign.
wise rotation of the knob causes the horizon line to
deflect upward from the airplane index. Rotating the Azimuth Indicator.
knob counterclockwise causes the horizon line to deflect
downward. Trim setting is automatically and gradually The aximuth indicator (7, figure 1-2), on the instru-
cancelled as airplane attitude approaches the vertical ment panel, displays azimuth reference with respect
in climb or dive to ensure a true vertical indication. to the surface of the earth. Its display is presented on
It returns automatically when level flight is resumed. a movable compass card and a single pointer. The
Bank angles are read from a semicircular bank scale compass card is synchronized with the stable platform
on the lower quarter of the instrument. Two long of the flight data system. A push-to-set synchronizer
pointers project across the sphere. Movement of these knob at the lower right side of the indicator permits
pointers shows airplane displacement with respect to adjustment of the compass card to read airplane azi-
the air in which it is flying (small angles of attack and muth displacement either from magnetic north or from
sideslip). The horizontal long pointer is a vernier in- the high range centerline. The knob may be turned to
dication of the angle-of-attack slip indicator on the accurately synchronize the card with the stable plat-
instrument panel. This horizontal pointer moves upward form during initial operation of the system. Turning
when the angle of attack is increased and downward the knob toward + causes the compass card to rotate
when the angle of attack is decreased. The vertical clockwise. Turning the knob toward - causes the com-
long pointer moves to the right to indicate a left side- pass card to rotate counterclockwise. The pointer is
slip, and to the left to indicate a right sideslip. The synchronized with the antenna of the automatic radio
range of either pointer movement is adjustable (on the direction finder (ADF) system. It reads displacement
ground) to operate within :1:5to :1:10degrees. A short between the airplane centerline and a course to the ADF
horizontal pointer is on the left side of the instrument. ground station. A knob labeled "SET HDG, " at the lower
This pitch pointer is a vernier indication for the pitch left side of the indicator, is used to set the index marker
axis of the sphere and moves in the same direction as at the periphery of the compass card to a prebriefed
the sphere. The pointer indicates displacement in a position. The azimuth indicator is powered by the
range of :1:5degrees of that angle selected on a pitch primary dc bus and the No. 1 primary ac bus.
1-39
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

Inertial Height Indicator. Strain Gage Power Switch.

When the two-position strain gage power switch is

The inertial height indicator (10, figure 1-2), powered
turned from OFF to ON, all transducers in the instru-
by the primary dc bus and No.1 primary ac bus, is on
mentation system requiring strain gage battery power
the instrument panel. The indicator is coupled to the
and that record on air-borne oscillographs, are
stable platform system computer to automatically indi-
energized.
cate any change in height. The computer, in turn,
determines the height from vertical accelerations meas- Data Switch and Light.
ured by a vertical accelerometer in the stable platform.
Height is measured from an arbitrary reference line.
This two-position switch energizes all air-borne re-
This reference line may be determined in one of several
cording media and arms the camera and calibrate
ways - pressure altitude, ground control radar, etc. switches when it is turned from OFF to ON. The switch
The inertial height indicator has a long 10,000-foot
also turns on a neon data light next to the switch. The
pointer and a short 100, OOO-foot pointer. Before
data light blinks in synchronization with the camera
launch, the pilot should readjust the height indicator
timer, thus providing a positive indication of correct
(by turning a knob labeled "SET" on the face of the in-
timer operation and energizing of recorder film
strument) to his height in relation to the arbitrary
magazines.
reference line to eliminate possible cumulative errors.
Calibrate Button and Li~t.
Inertial Speed (Velocity) Indicator.
This is a spring-loaded, push-button type switch with
an integral signal light. Momentarily depressing the
The speed (velocity) indicator (13, figure 1-2) is a
button triggers the automatic in-flight calibration cir-
single-pointer instrument coupled to the stable plat-
cuits used with the strain gage transducers to record
form system computer to indicate airplane trajectory
the air-borne oscillographs. The signal light in the
velocity. The computer determines this trajectory
button comes on green when the button is depressed,
velocity from accelerations measured by accelerom- to indicate that automatic calibration is in progress.
eters in the stable platform. The indicator, powered
The light continues to glow after the button is released,
by the primary dc bus and No.1 primary ac bus, is on
remaining on until the calibration is completed.
the instrument panel and reads in thousands of feet per
second from 0 to 7.
Camera Switch.

Vertical Velocity Indicator. The camera switch provides a means of selecting cine
or pulse operation for the recording cameras. The
switch has three positions: CINE, PULSE, and OFF.
This single-pointer indicator (9, figure 1-2), on the
instrument panel, displays inertial ascent and descent
in hundreds of feet per second from 0 to 10. The ver- Telemeter Master Power Switch.
tical velocity indicator, powered by the primary dc bus
and the No. 1 primary ac bus, is coupled to the stable This two-position switch, when turned from OFF to
platform system computer. The computer determines ON, energizes all power circuits in the telemeter
this vertical velocity from accelerations measured by system.
the vertical velocity accelerometer in the stable
platform. Telemeter Commutator Motor Switch.

INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEM Moving this two-position switch from OFF to COMM

energizes the commutator motor.

The instrumentation system records a wide variety

Enf;ine Oscillograph Reco rd Switch.
of data on the basic airframe and airplane systems.
The system is powered from the No. 2 primary ac bus
The engine oscillograph record switch is on the center
and the primary dc bus. Controls and indicators for
pedestal instrumentation panel (5, figure 1-5) and is
the system are on the center pedestal. (See figure 1-5.) labeled "ENG OSC." With instrumentation system
electrical power available (instrumentation master and
INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEM CONTROLS AND data switches ON), moving the engine oscillograph
INDICA TORS. record switch to ON (up) applies primary dc bus power
to operate the engine oscillograph. When the switch is
Instrumentation Master Power Switch. at OFF, the oscillograph is off and will not record
system parameters. Both switch positions are main-
tained. Use of the switch depends on the type of re-
Turning this two-position switch to ON energizes all search mission to be flown.
instrumentation heater circuits, energizes air-borne
recording instrumentation dc power circuits, and arms Engine Vibration Recorder Switch.
the gyro cage switch, strain gage power switch, and data
switch. Moving the switch to OFF electrically de- The engine vibration recorder switch, on the instru-
energizes all instrumentation equipment. mentation panel (5, figure 1-5), is labeled "VIB REC."
1-40

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

Moving the switch to ON (up) turns on the engine vibra- be ejected with the canopy internal emergency jettison
tion recorder. Although a vibration sensor on the engine "T" handle which fires a separate initiator that does not
continuously sends engine vibration signals through a arm and fire the ejection seat when the canopy leaves.
signal box to the recorder, no record is made until the A similar "T" handle is provided externally, behind a
engine vibration recorder switch is moved to the ON door on the right side of the fuselage, just below the
position. The recorder, which has its own battery canopy split line, for ground emergencies.
power, is shut down when the switch is moved to OFF.
CANOPY SEAL.
Physiological Instrumentation Switch.
An inflatable rubber seal, built into the edge of the
A physiological instrumentation switch is on the in- canopy frame, seats against mating surfaces of the
strumentation control panel (5, figure 1-5), on the canopy sill and a bulkhead at the aft end of the cockpit
center pedestal, on modified airplanes. The switch, to provide sealing for cockpit pressurization. The seal
labeled "PHYS INST, " allows the physiological instru- pressurization valve is mechanically actuated just before
mentation system to be turned ON (switch moved up) the complete locking of the canopy to permit gaseous
or OFF. The switch controls primary dc bus power to nitrogen to inflate the seal. When the canopy handle is
the physiological instrumentation system. actuated to open the canopy, the seal pressurization is
dumped and the nitrogen valve is closed.
INDICATOR. CAUTION. AND WARNING LIGHT
CANOPY CONTROLS.
SYSTEM.

Malfunctions or operating conditions for various air- Canopy External Handle.

plane systems are indicated by placard-type indicator,
caution, and warning lights on the instrument panel and The canopy external handle (figure 1-13), on the right
center pedestal. For information on the functions of side of the fuselage, below the forward end of the canopy,
these lights, refer to the applicable systems. Except is behind a flush door that is opened by pushing a flush-
for the engine compartment fire-warning light, all the mounted button just aft of the door. Pulling the black
lights can be tested by a switch in the cockpit. long-hinged handle out of its spring clip and rotating it
upward unlocks and moves the canopy aft about one inch
INDICATOR, CAUTION, AND WARNING LIGHT to permit manual raising of the canopy. Rotating the
SWITCH. handle forward and down moves the canopy forward and
locks it. Pushing the handle into the spring clip stows
the handle.
An indicator, caution, and warning light switch (31,
figure 1-2), powered by the primary dc bus, is on the
instrument panel right wing. This switch has two posi- Canopy Internal Handle.
tions, TEST and NORMAL. When the switch is placed
in the TEST position, all indicator, caution, and warning The canopy internal handle (1, figure 1-4), for locking
lights (except the fire-warning light) on the instrument or unlo cking the canopy, is on the right side of the
panel and center pedestal come on; this is only a test of cockpit, just below the canopy sill. Locking of the
the bulbs. The switch must be at NORMAL for all canopy requires that the canopy be lowered manually
normal operations. until it is tight against the canopy sill, then the handle
pushed forward until it is against the stops and then
rotated outboard to lock. Unlocking the canopy is
CANOPY. accomplished by pulling the handle inboard and aft all
the way back against the stops until the canopy is un-
locked. The canopy can then be raised manually. Dur-
-
The one piece, pneumatically counterbalanced, ing the ejection sequence, the handle automatically
clamshell-type canopy (figure 1-13) is manually oper- moves aft when the canopy unlocks.
ated and mechanically locked in the down position.
The canopy is hinged at the rear and opens about 45
degrees after moving aft to unlock. The canopy can
be manually locked from either inside or outside.
canopy has a double-pane window with an air space
The I WARNING I
between the panes for defrosting air. A retractable,
adjustable head support can be lowered from the top of Keep hands and arms clear of canopy internal
the canopy to restrain the pilot's head during decelera- handle when canopy is jettisoned, because the
tion. A canopy seal, incorporated in the rim of the canopy handle moves aft with considerable force.
canopy, contacts the canopy sill and a bulkhead at the
rear of the cockpit to allow pressurization of the cockpit.
A cartridge-type canopy remover is fired by an initiator Canopy Internal Emergency Jettison Handle.
when the ejection seat armrests are raised. Also, this
initiator directs some of its expanding gases to extend The canopy internal emergency jettison handle (25,
a thruster at the forward end of the canopy. When the figure 1-2), on the instrument panel right wing, jettisons
canopy leaves the airplane, it fires the ejection seat the canopy without firing the seat. The "T" handle fires
catapult initiator to eject the seat. The canopy can also a separate initiator that fires the canopy remover and
1-41

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

1 CANOPY
RETRACTABLE DECELERA nON
HEADREST

CANOPY
HOOK
(TYPICAL)

CANOPY EXTERNALHANDLE
(SHOWN IN OPEN POSITION)

......

"'"
, ~,.

X-15-1-31-1B

Figure 1-13

extends the canopy thruster. On the ground, the handle The seat is not armed when the canopy is removed by
is safetied with a safety pin inserted through the handle. this means.

I WARNING I I WARNING I
Keep hands and arms clear of canopy internal . The canopy external emergency jettison handle
handle when pulling the emergency jettison does not have an extension lanyard. Therefore,
handle, because the canopy internal handle
moves aft with considerable force.
extreme care should be taken to ensure that no
part of a person's body is directly over any
o
portion of the canopy when it is jettisoned.
Canopy External Emergency Jettison Handle.
. If the ejection handles are raised and the canopy
The canopy may be jettisoned from the outside by the has not jettisoned, the ejection seat must be
canopy external emergency jettison handle. (See figure deactivated before the canopy is either manually
1-13.) This yellow, T-type handle is just forward of opened or jettisoned, to prevent seat ejection.
the canopy external handle in a recess behind a flush
door on the right side of the fuselage, below the forward SAFETY PINS.
end of the canopy. When the handle is pulled straight
out approximately 4 inches with a force of about 10
pounds, a canopy initiator is fired. This in turn fires Because of the interdependence of the seat and canopy
a canopy remover that forcibly jettisons the canopy. ejection systems, the seat and canopy safety pins are
1-42

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section I

discussed together in this paragraph. To safety the the seat belt, personal leads, ejection handles, and
canopy and seat ejection systems adequately, seven all restraints, to permit pilot separation from the seat.
safety pins are required. The two initiators on the
canopy deck, just aft of the right side of the seat, and EJECTION SEAT CONTROLS.
the two initiators on the right side of the seat near the
headrest are safetied by a safety pin inserted through
a hole in the initiator sear pin of each initiator. The Ejection Seat Ejection Handles.
right-hand ejection handle, on the ejection seat, re-
straint emergency release handle on the ejection seat,
and canopy internal emergency jettison handle on the Unlatching and raising either ejection handle on the seat
instrument panel right wing are safetied with a safety to within 15 degrees of its full travel fires an initiator
pin through a hole in each handle. that fires the canopy remover. As the canopy leaves the
airplane, it fires the seat catapult initiator that fires
the two-stage seat catapult. The ejection handle release
latch is in the top portion of each ejection handle and is
I WARNING' actuated when either ejection handle is grasped. Since
the ejection handle assemblies are linked together by a
linkage to a torque tube, pulling up on either ejection
All safety pins must be removed before flight handle automatically raises the other. The ejection
and replaced after landing. handles lock in the full travel position until unlocked by
the restraint release system. If the canopy is inadvert-
ently lost in flight, the seat will not eject unless the
EJECTION SEAT. ejection handles are raised. During pilot separation
from the seat after ejection, the ejection handle assem-
blies are automatically unlocked and swing out board to
The ejection seat (figure 1-14) is designed to permit permit unrestricted pilot separation from the seat.
safe pilot ejection up to Mach 4.0, in any attitude, and Modified ejection seats and pressure suits provide
at any altitude up to 120,000 feet. Firing of the seat automatic actuation of the pilot's emergency oxygen
is initiated by jettisoning the canopy. The seat cannot supply when the ejection handles are raised. As the
be ejected unless the canopy has left the airplane. A handles are raised, a cable pulls the pin from the emer-
ballistic-rocket type catapult supplies the necessary gency oxygen supply valve. The cable is attached in
propulsion force to eject the seat and pilot from the parallel with the manual actuation cable.
airplane. During ejection, stabilizing fins and booms
automatically extend to stabilize the seat. Restraint
Restraint Emergency Release Handle.
devices are provided for the pilot's body and legs to
prevent injuries and separation from the seat above
15,000 feet. At this altitude, an aneroid device fires A restraint emergency release handle, on the right
three initiators to free the restraint devices and permit side of the ejection seat, is pulled up to afford a quick
pilot separation from the seat. A manual handle is release from the seat on the ground when the manual
provided to permit the pilot to release the restraints release would be too slow, or after ejection if the
if the aneroid device fails. If ejection below 15,000 aneroid device fails to actuate the automatic restraint
feet is accomplished, there is a 3-second delay after release system. Pulling this handle releases the foot
ejection before automatic pilot-seat separation is initi- restraints, lap belt, personal leads, and armrest
ated. The breathing oxygen supply is contained in cyl- assemblies, and fires the headrest which releases the
inders mounted to the underside of the seat and is used shoulder harness.
when the airplane is launched from the carrier airplane.
While in captive flight, breathing oxygen is supplied by Foot Restraint Release Buttons.
the carrier airplane. An oxygen selector valve and gage
on the left side of the seat permits selection of either
carrier airplane oxygen or the seat-contained oxygen. The foot restraint release buttons are on the top front
The personal leads (radio, oxygen, and ventilated suit) corners of the seat, above each foot restraint. De-
are attached to a disconnect block that is fitted into a pressing each button unlocks its respective foot re-
disconnect fitting on the left side inside the seat bucket. straint, which releases the pilot's feet. During
The ejection seat also has a quick-disconnect receptacle
to plug in the pilot's physiological instrumentation wiring
automatic pilot-seat
unlock automatically.
separation, the foot restraints c:
harness. The receptacle is on the top of the seat pan in
the forward right-hand corner. The manually adjustable SAFETY PINS.
shoulder harness straps are fastened to the integrated
parachute restraint harness with quick-disconnect Refer to "Safety Pins" under "Canopy" in this section.
fittings. During the ejection sequence, the shoulder
harness is released when the headrest ejects. The
pilot's parachute is carried in a container attached to PARACHUTE, INTEGRATED RESTRAINT EQUIPMENT,
AND PRESSURE SUIT.
the pilot's integrated harness, with a pilot chute in a
separate container; the pilot chute is released when the
headrest is ejected. The operation sequence of the The personal parachute for the pilot is contained within
aneroid device is actuated at 15,000 feet, and it fires a fiber glass parachute container that is attached to the
the three initiators that fire the headrest and release pilot's integrated harness at the top and bottom. The
1-43

I
 Section I T. O. 1X-15-1

EJECTION SEAI-
SEAT STABILIZING FIN AND
RESTRAINT RELEASE INITIATORS

SEAT AND CANOPY INITIATOR

1
MAINTENANCE SAFETY PINS
(CHECK REMOVED BEFORE FLIGHT) SEAT STABILIZING FIN AND RESTRAINT RELEASE
INITIATOR MAINTENANCE SAFETY PINS (CHECK
SEAT AND CANOPY INITIATORS REMOVED BEFORE FLIGHT)
( ON CANOPY DECK)

EJECTABLE HEADREST

PILOT CHUTE CONTAINER

AND

LAP BELT RELEASE PIP

PIN (TYPICAL BOTH SIDES)

PERSONAL LEADS DISCONNECT

- FOOT RESTRAINT
OPERATING BAR

STABILIZING FIN

SHOULDER HARNESS

PARACHUTE RISER

PARACHUTE CONTAINER

ARMREST -

BREATHINGOXYGEN BOTTLES~ - EJECTIONHANDLE

SAFETY PIN (REMOVE
BEFORE FLIGHT)

EJECTION HANDLE

RESTRAINT EMERGENCY
X-15-1-73-ID RELEASE HANDLE SAFETY
PIN (REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT)

Figure 1-14
1-44

I
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

1 LIQUID OXYGEN CONTROL BOX DRAIN

COMBUSTION GAS 2ND STAGE IGNITER DRAIN

COMBUSTION GAS THRUST CHAMBER DRAIN

FUEL MANIFOLD DRAIN TURBO PUMP EXHAUST

AMMONIA PRIME DRAIN

STEAM TURBINE DRAIN
COMBUSTION GAS 1ST STAGE
IGNITER DRAIN
GOVERNOR OIL DRAIN

LUBE OIL DRAIN FROM TANK

LUBE OIL FROM LUBE PUMP DRAIN

LIQUID OXYGEN AND/OR LUBE OIL FROM PUMP DRAIN FUEL AND/OR LUBE OIL DRAIN
FROM TURBOPUMPS
LIQUID OXYGEN DRAIN
ENGINE TURBOPUMP HYDROGEN
MAIN AMMONIA DRAIN PEROXIDE JETTISON
AMMONIA DRAIN
'-- ENGINE
HYDROGEN
PEROXIDE
ENGINE COMPARTMENT DRAIN COMPARTMENT DRAIN

X-15-1-00-17C

Figure 1-15

parachute may be either a 24-foot or a 28-foot type. automatic release, but can be removed manually to
Another fiber glass container contains the pilot chute permit removal of the parachute container without
and, along with the parachute container lids, closes the actuating the restraint release system. When pilot-
top of the parachute container. The pilot chute container seat separation occurs during ejection, the parachute
is held in place by a retaining pin that locks into the container remains with the pilot. The parachute riser
manual ripcord pin. On the top of the container, a quick-release buckles also fasten the shoulder harness
retainer pin fits into the ejection seat headrest. During and parachute container to the pressure suit fittings, on
ejection, the pilot chute container is locked to the head- the pilot's chest, just below the shoulders. The rip cord
rest as the seat leaves the airplane, and is pulled off the "D" ring is attached to a strap fastened to the left side
parachute container to deploy the pilot chute when the of the parachute container. This strap also has a quick-
headrest is fired. This in turn pulls out the main para- release buckle which is fastened to a fitting on the left
chute canopy. A rescue beacon transmitter, installed side of the integrated restraint harness, just below the
in the parachute container, is automatically energized arm. The lap belt portion of the integrated restraint
into continuous operation when the pilot's parachute harness consists of two straps, one over each hip,
deploys. The transmitter antenna is attached to one of fitted with hooks that are snapped into a ring portion
the parachute straps. Transmission is on the X-15 of the lap belt release fitting on either side of the seat.
telemetering frequency of 244. 3 megacycles. The The lap belt has double adjuster straps, one through
transmitter permits ground stations to obtain position each side of the buckle. The adjuster straps must be
fixes on the pilot after an ejection. The parachute con- pulled tight to keep the pilot firmly in the seat. This
tainer is attached to the seat by a strap on the lower attaches the pilot to the seat and parachute container.
corner of each side. This strap is attached to a fitting The full pressure suit was modified for the X-15 Air-
which is held by a lap belt release on each side in the plane and has the restraint straps and parachute harness
seat bucket. This release hinges on a pip pin during designed as an integral part of the suit. A neck seal
1-45

I
 Section I T.O. 1X-15-1

is used to keep the suit pressurization nitrogen and

breathing oxygen separated. Attached to the back of
the restraint harness is a controller back pan which I WARNING t
incorporates an oxygen regulator, suit pressure regu-
lator, anti-G valve, and the emergency oxygen supply If the pilot prebreathes 100 percent oxygen
for breathing and suit emergency pressurization. This before entering the cockpit, the visor must not
emergency oxygen supply is sufficient for about 20 be opened at any time during ground or flight
minutes after the pilot separates from the ejection seat. operations; otherwise, the denitrogenation effect
The oxygen and communication lines from the controller will be nullified.
back pan are internal and plug into a pressure suit
mating receptacle over the left shoulder blade. The When the visor is down and latched, the suit and helmet
personal-lead disconnect block is also attached to the are completely sealed in a leakproof unit. The visor
controller back pan. The suit regulator ventilation is kept fog-free by the breathing oxygen as it comes in
exhaust valve is over the right shoulder blade. The around the face opening and across the visor.
emergency oxygen supply in the controller back pan is
actuated automatically (modified ejection seats and AUXll..IARY EQUIPMENT.
pressure suits) when the seat ejection handles are
raised, or can be actuated manually by a green ball The following auxiliary equipment is described in Section
on the right side of the suit. The helmet is free-rotating IV: air conditioning and pressurization system, com-
and is fastened to the suit with a snap connector ring munication and associated electronic equipment, lighting
that seals the joint. .The helmet visor is locked down equipment, pilot's oxygen system, and miscellaneous
with a squeeze latch on the bottom edge. equipment.

1-46

I
 T.O. 1X-15-1 Section I

tl
8 I

"{-

A::s L
~.,...,.. .~

CJ
.... ,.".,.",..I~ ,-....

\\Y.illdl
At
15
I""''''''''''''''''''.'''... .
12 11

1. Nitrogen filler-nose gear strut (in wheel well) 11. Liquid nitrogen filler- air conditioning and pressuri-
2. Breathing oxygen filler (on seat) zation system
Helium filler-air conditioning and pressurization system
3. Lubricating oil filler-APU No.1
Helium filler and pressure gage-APU No.2
4. B-52 disconnects (7) Hydrogen peroxide filler-APU No.2
5. No.1 hydraulic reservoir level sight gage No.2 hydraulic pressure disconnect
6. Helium filler and pressure gage-APU No. 1 No.2 hydraulic suction disconnect
Hydrogen peroxide filler-APU No. 1 12. Liquid nitrogen filler-helium tank cooling
No. 1 hydraulic pressure disconnect Pressure test-propellant system controls
No. 1 hydraulic suction disconnect Helium filler-propellant system
7. Liquid oxygen filler-engine oxidizer 13. Ammonia filler
8. Engine control hydraulic oil filler 14. Helium filler-engine purge system and
9. No.2 hydraulic reservoir level sight gage No. 1 and No.2 hydraulic accumulators
Hydrogen peroxide filler-engine turbopump pro-
10. Lubricating oil filler-APU No.2 pellant
15. Engine lubrication system filler
NA2-21 03 Grade A
HELIUM .High-grade, oil-free, with purity greater than 99.9 percent,
and maximum dew point of _70°F
GASEOUS NITROGEN ... Grade, A Type I MIL-N-6011
LIQUID NITROGEN Grade A Type II MIL-N-6011
LIQUID OXYGEN (OXIDIZER) MIL-P-25508
GASEOUS OXYGEN (BREATHING)
HYDRAULIC FLUiD
BB-0-925
NA2-2078A
Grade A Type I
(Oronite 8515) c:
LUBRICATING OIL (APU) MIL-L-7808C
LUBRICATING OIL (ENGINE) Halo carbon oil 4-11V (RMD Spec 4043)
ANHYDROUS AMMONIA JAN-A-182
HYDRAULIC OIL (ENGINE CONTROL) ..RMD Spec 4041

x-t5-1-00-0D

Figure 1-16

1-47/1-48

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1

SECTION II

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE NO. PAGE NO.

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 EngineOperation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Preparation for Flight .. ........... 2-1 Engine Burnout ................. 2-12

Preflight Check .... ...... ....... 2-1 Shutdown Procedure ........... ... 2-14

Captive Taxi and Flight ............ 2-6 Aborted Launch ................. 2-14
Descent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Prelaunch ..................... 2-7

Ballistic Control and Reaction Before Landing . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Augmentation System Operation ...... 2-12 Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Launch ....................... 2-12 After Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Flight Characteristics ............. 2-12 Before Leaving Airplane ........ 2-15

INTRODUCTION. A hydraulically operated, adjustable stand is raised

to the cockpit ledge to permit normal entry to the
The research mission of the X-15 requires flexibility cockpit. (See figure 2-1.)
of operation; for this reason, the procedures presented
in Section II are subject to change. The procedures
presented are for a typical mission, and do not reflect
any special research requirements. ' I WARNING I
PREPARATION FOR FLIGHT. If the pilot prebreathes 100 percent oxygen,
the visor must not be opened at any time during
PILOT-COCKPIT COMPA TIBILITY. ground or flight operation.

For efficient flying of the airplane and to ensure op-

PREFLIGHT CHECK.
timum escape conditions if ejection is necessary, the
pilot-cockpit compatibility adjustments must be accom-
plished as outlined in the X-15 Maintenance Manual, BEFORE EXTERIOR INSPECTION.
Report No. NA-58-770.
Check Form 781 for engineering status and to make sure
that the airplane has been serviced for the scheduled
FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS.
mission. (See figure 1-16 for servicing points. )
Refer to Section V for detailed airplane and engine EXTERIOR INSPECTION.
limitations.
Because of the mission of this airplane and the personal
WEIGHT AND BALANCE. equipment used by the pilot, it is not feasible for the
pilot to perform an exterior inspection.
Refer to Section V for weight and balance limitations. CANOPY AND EJECTION SEAT CHECK.
For loading information, refer to Weight and Balance
Technical Manual, T.O. 1-lB-40. Before entering cockpit, check canopy and ejection
seat as follows:
ENTERING COCKPIT.
1. Canopy ejection mechanism - Check.
When the airplane is in place on the pylon of the carrier Open canopy fully to visually check canopy remover
airplane, the cockpit can be entered from either sid! . mechanism and that initiator ground safety pins are

2-1

I
Section II T. O. 1X-15-1

1 ENTERING COCKPIT .

Figure 2-1

installed. Also check tubing and fitting from canopy INTERIOR CHECK.
initiators to canopy remover.
Before the interior check of the cockpit is made, certain
2. Foot restraints - Check visually. instrument readings must be checked. (See figure 2-2.)

Check that foot restraints are in the open position. Personal Equipment.

3. Ejection seat safety pins - Check visually. Before the interior check of the cockpit is made, the
following personal equipment should be connected and
adjusted with the aid of ground personnel:
Check that ejection seat safety pins are installed
in seat initiators. Also check tubing and fittings 1. Pressure suit integrated harness - Attach harness
from initiators to seal ejection catapult. to parachute risers and shoulder harness straps.

4. Canopy external handle and external emergency 2. Integrated restraint harness - Fasten to seat.
jettison handle - Check.
3. Emergency oxygen system actuating cable -
Connected.
Make sure canopy external manual and emergency
jettison handles are stowed properly and that door Check that the emergency oxygen system actuating
is closed. cable is connected to the right-hand seat ejection
handle.

4. Personal equipment quick-disconnect - Insert and

5. Ejection handles - Down and latched. lock.

2-2
 T. O. lX-15-l Section II

NOTE
COCKPIT INSTRUMENT READINGS All readings are based on requirements
for a full-duration mission.
AFTER SERVICING

INSTRUMENT LOW NORMAL HIGH REMARKS

PROPELLANT SOURCE
PRESSUREGAGE 3500 3500 to 3600 3600
High limit is below minimum relief valve setting.
H,O, SOURCEAND PURGE 3500 3500 to 3600 3600
PRESSUREGAGE (BOTH POINTERS)

APU SOURCEPRESSUREGAGE
3600 3700 to 3900 3900
(BOTH POINTERS)
High limit is below minimum relief valve setting.
CABIN HELIUMSOURCE
3500 3500 to 3600 3600
PRESSUREGAGE

HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGE -55'C _30. to 50.C 95°C

During hydraulic servicing, hydraulic cart should
be hooked up and fluid circulated to maintain
HYDRAULICPRESSUREGAGE temperature within limits shown. Hydraulic pres-
3200 3400 to 3600 4500 sure should be maintained within limits shown.
(BOTH POINTERS)

limits shown are required for proper operation

AC VOLTMETERS 190 190 to 210 210 of airplane components and are controlled by
ground cart output.

PilOT'S OXYGEN
2950 2950 to 3300 3300
PRESSUREGAGE

H,O, TANK AND "C" POINTER 575 575 to 600 620

ENGINE CONTROL High limit indicates excessive regulator leakage.
LINE PRESSURE
GAGE "T" POINTER 0 Tank vented.
X-15-1-51-10

Figure 2-2

When the pressure suit quick-disconnect is inserted Left Console.

and locked, oxygen, communication, and ventilated
suit leads are mated and connected. 1. Pressure suit ventilation knob - As desired.
5. X-15 LN2 supply switch - Check OPEN. 2. Vent suit heater
desired.
switch - HIGH or LOW, as
Confirm with launch operator that the switch is
OPEN. 3. Radio controls - OFF.
6. Rudder pedals. 4. Face mask heater switch - OFF.
7. Pilot's oxygen system selector - B-52. 5. Intercom switch - ON. e
8. Physiological package wiring - Connect. 6. Antenna selector switch - As desired.
After connecting and adjusting personal equipment, 7. Trim control switch - Normal.
make a left-to-right check of the cockpit by sections
as shown in the paragraphs that follow. 8. Ready-to-Iaunch switch - OFF.

9. Wing flap switch - UP.

NOTE
10. Jettison trim switch - OFF (Center).
Electrical power will be supplied from the car-
rier airplane at this time. 11. Speed brake handles - CLOSED (forward).
2-3

I
Section II T. O. 1X-15-1

12. Ballistic control stick - Check attachment and 18. Propellant pump inlet pressure gage - Check.
freedom of movement.
19. Fuel line low caution light - Check.
13. RAS function switches - STANDBY.
20. Propellant manifold pressure gage - Check.
14. RAS accelerometer switch - OFF.
21. H202 compartment-hot caution light - Check
15. Vent, pressurization, and jettison control lever - OFF.
VENT.
22. Chamber and stage 2 igniter pressure gage - Check.
The vent valve on the NH3 tank will be manually
closed before flight, to prevent losing NH3 during 23. Liquid oxygen bearing temperature gage - Check.
captive flight. When the vent, pressurization, or
jettison control lever is placed in the PRESSURIZE Instrument Panel (Flight Instruments).
or JETTISON position and then back to VENT, the
1. Pilot's oxygen-low caution light - Check.
NH3 vent valve will then be open.
2. Accelerometer - Set and check.
16. Throttle - OFF.
3. Azimuthindicator - Set.
17. Jettison stop switches - STOP.
4. Altimeter - Set.
Check that all three switches (LOX, H202, and
5. Attitudeindicator- Set.
NH3) are in the STOP position.
6. Fuel quantity gage knob - Check.
18. Auxiliary launch switch - OFF (guard down).
7. Pitch angle set knob - As required.
19. Landing gear handle - IN.
Instrument Panel (Electrical, Hydraulic, and Cockpit).
Instrument Panel (Engine Instruments).
1. Emergency battery switch - OFF (guard down).
1. Propellant emergency pressurization switch - OFF.
2. No.1 generator-out light - Check OFF.
2. Ignition-ready light - Check OFF.
3. No.2 generator-out light - Check OFF.
3. No-drop caution light - Check OFF.
4. No.1 and No.2 generator switches - OFF.
4. Idle-end caution light - Check OFF.
5. APU No.1 switch - OFF.
5. Valve malfunction caution light - Check OFF.
6. APU No. 1 warning and caution lights - Check OFF.
6. Stage 2 ignition malfunction caution light - Check
OFF. 7. No. 1 ballistic control switch - OFF.
7. Turbopump overspeed caution light - Check OFF. 8. No.2 ballistic control switch - OFF.
8. Engine vibration malfunction caution light - Check. 9. APU No.2 warning and caution lights - Check OFF.

9. Fire-warning light - Check OFF. 10. APU No.2 switch - OFF.

10. Helium release selector switch - OFF. 11. APU H202 pressure gage - Check 0 psi.
11. Engine master switch - OFF. 12. Clock - Check and set.
12. Engine reset button - Check.
13. Mixing chamber temperature gage - Check.
13. Engine precool switch - OFF.
14. APU bearing temperature gage - Check.
14. Engine prime switch - OFF. 15. Cabin pressure altimeter - Check.
15. Turbopumpidle button - Check. Center Pedestal.

16. Igniter idle switch - OFF. 1. Pitch function switch - STDBY.

17. Propellant tank pressure gage - Check. 2. Roll function switch - STDBY.
2-4
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section II

3. SAStest switch - Check OFF. 14. Cabin source helium shutoff valve switch - OFF.
4. "Yar" function switch - STDBY. 15. APU cooling switch - SINGLE.
5. Yaw function switch - STDBY. 16. Alternate cabin pressurization switch - IN.
6. SAS caution lights (four) - Check ON. 17. Console control stick - Check attachment and
freedom of movement.
7. SAS gain selector knobs - Set.
18. Center control stick - Check attachment and free-
Set the gain selectors at the following: Pitch, 8; dom of movement.
roll, 6; yaw, 8.
19. Alternate trim switch - Centered.
8. Ball nose test button - Check.
Check alternate trim switch on the center control
9. Research instrumentation - Set as required for stick for freedom of operation.
mission.
20. Windshield purge handle - OFF (down).
10. Engine oscillograph record switch - As required.
21. Windshield anti-fogging handle - OFF (down).
11. Ram-air lever - CLOSED.
Interior Inspection Operational Check.
12. Radar beacon switch - As required.
1. Augmented cooling system - ON.
13. Stable platform instrument switch - ON.
Refer to "Operation of Ram -air and Augmented
14. Engine vibration recorder switch - OFF. Cooling System (Captive Flight)" in Section IV.

15. Cockpit ram-air knob - OFF (in). 2. Oxygen system - Check.

16. DC voltmeter selector switch - BUS. Check that breathing oxygen is being supplied from
the carrier airplane.
17. DC voltmeter - Check.
3. Face mask heater - Check.
Right Console.
Move face mask heater switch to HI and check
1. Canopy emergency release handle - IN. operation, then move switch to OFF.

2. Stable platform power switch - EXT. 4. Intercom - Check.

3. Nose ballistic rocket heater switch - OFF. Check communication between carrier airplane
and X-15 Airplane.
4. Ventral arming switch - DE-ARM.
5. DC voltmeter switch - BUS.
5. Cockpit lighting switch - OFF.
6. Calibrate instrumentation.
6. Indicator, caution, and warning light switch -
NORMAL. 7. Launchlight - Test.
7. Fire-warning light test button - Push to test. Push to test launch light; have verification from
carrier pilot and launch panel operator.
Fire- warning light ON indicates continuity of de-
tection circuit. 8. Indicator, caution, and warning lights - Check. c
8. Windshield heater switches (two) - OFF. Place the indicator, caution, and warning light test
switch at TEST. All indicator, caution, and warning
9. Circuit-breaker panel - Check circuit breakers as lights (except the fire-warning light) will come on;
required. this is only a test of the bulbs.
10. Restraint emergency release handle - IN. 9. Groundsafety pins - Removed.
11. Pressure cooling lever - OFF.
Have crew chief remove the six ground safety pins
12. No.1 blower switch - OFF. and display pins.

13. No.2 blower switch - OFF. 10. Close canopy.

2-5

I
 Section II T. O. lX-15-1

.
'.'.'.'.' , .
;:......
.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:
. COCKPIT INSTRUMENT READINGS NOTE
All readings are based on requirements
BEFORE TAKE-OFF' for a full-duration mission.

INSTRUMENT LOW NORMAL HIGH REMARKS

PROPELLANT SOURCE
3300 3S00 to 3600 3900
PRESSURE GAGE

H202 SOURCE AND PURGE Low limit is minimum pressure required for full-
3000 3500 to 3600 3900 duration mission. High limit is maximum pres-
PRESSURE GAGE (BOTH POINTERS)
sure relief valve setting.
APU SOURCE PRESSURE GAGE
3300 3600 to 3900 4200
(BOTH POINTERS)

CABIN HELIUM SOURCE

3300 3500 to 3600 3900 Relief valve set for 3900 maximum.
PRESSURE GAGE

HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGES _ 125 v C -75°C to O<C 95<C Temperature below low limit can cause exces-
sive pressure drop and restriction of flow.

AC VOLTMETERS 190 190 to 210 210 Limits shown are required for praper operation
of airplane components.

H202 TANK AND "c" POINTER 575 575 to 600 620 High limit indicates excessive regulator leakage.
ENGINE CONTROL
LINE PRESSURE
GAGE "T" POINTER 0 Tank vented.

"A" POINTER 0 o to 30 68 Vent valve manually closed.

PROPELLANT TANK
PRESSURE GAGE
"L" POINTER o to 5 Tank vented.
X-15-1-51-ll

Figure 2-3

CAPTIVE TAXI AND FlJGHT. 3. Jettison stop switches - STOP.

~. 4. Instrument Reading - Check.
1. SAS function switches - Check. See figure 2-3 for proper instrument readings.
TAKE-OFF
Move SAS function switches to ENGAGE and check;
functions should trip during taxiing because of car-
During take-off, monitor all instruments, and relay
rier airplane motions and no hydraulic pressure.
Return function switches to STDBY after each func- to the carrier pilot or launch operator any information
tion trips.
that could affect the planned mission. c
2. Radar beacon switch - ON. 1. Ventral arming switch - ARM.

BEFORE TAKE-OFF.
2. Windshield heater switches - ON.
3. Engine master switch - ON.
Before take-off of the carrier airplane, recheck the
following: 4. Engine reset button - Push (one second).
1. Ram-air lever - CLOSED. 5. Engine precool switch - PRECOOL.
Precool the engine for 10 minutes on, then 20
2. N2 or helium release switch - AUTO. minutes off, as instructed by ground control.

2-6

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section II

CLIMB. Engine Check.

After take-off, during the climb and cruise part of the Check and report the instrument readings. If instru-
flight, the liquid oxygen tanks of the X-15 Airplane will ments are not within limits, check with ground control
be topped off from the carrier airplane. for alternate mission if below limit.

1. Instrument power switch - ON.

NOTE
2. Telemetering power switch - ON.
3. Course indicator - Check operation. Values exceeding limits noted may indicate
regulator failure.
4. Face mask heater switch - As required.
PRELAUNCH.
5. Communications - Check.
BEFORE COUNTDOWN.
Confirm radio communication with chase plane
and ground station, and also that communication Before countdown, check location and time to 'go; then
is available between X-15 Airplane, chase plane complete final cockpit check as follows:
and carrier airplane, and chase plane and carrier
airplane with ground station. 1. Engine precool switch - OFF.
6. Liquid oxygen top-off cycle - Check. After precooling is completed, return precool
switch to OFF.
Confirm that liquid oxygen top-off from the carrier
airplane liquid oxygen climb tank is satisfactory.
NOTE
7. Hook heater - Confirm ON.

Confirm with launch operator that hook heater is If a delay in launch is required, the engine
ON. can be maintained in a precooled condition for
an extended period of time by moving the engine
8. Nose ballistic rocket heater switch - ON. precool switch to PRECOOL for approximately
7-1/2 minutes every 20 minutes.
9. Blower switches - OFF (15,000 feet).
2. Ram-air lever - CLOSED.
Move blower switches to OFF at 15,000 feet
altitude.

10. Ram-air lever - OPEN. I WARNING I

CRUISE-CLIMB TO LAUNCH ALTITUDE. The oxygen supply to the pressure suit helmet
must be on and the helmet visor must be down
During cruise-climb to launch altitude, the pilot of the before the cockpit is pressurized with nitrogen.
carrier airplane will start the time -to -go sequence.
Confirm with the launch operator that the liquid oxygen 3. Cabin source helium shutoff valve switch - CLOSED.
top-off is satisfactory and that the liquid oxygen cruise
tank has been started to complete the top-off.
4. Pressure cooling lever - ON.
At start of climb from 35,000 feet cruise altitude to 5. APU cooling switch - NORMAL.
45,000 feet launch altitude, accomplish the following:

1. Ram-air lever - CLOSED. 6. Blower switches - BLOWER & LN2.

7. Oxygen system - Switch from carrier supply to
2. Blower switches - BLOWER ONLY. X-15 Airplane supply.

Rotate oxygen selector valve on seat leg guard to

X-15 Airplane. Check for oxygen flow.
NOTE
8. X-15 LN2 supply switch - Check CLOSED.

If cabin pressure of 35,000 feet is not maintained

during climb to 45, 000 feet move blower switches
Confirm with the launch operator that the switch
to BLOWER & LN2. is CLOSED.

2-7

I
 Section II T. O. lX-15-1

9. Inertial height indicator - Set. 5. Yaw, pitch, and roll function switches - OFF, then
ENGAGE.
10. Ventral arming switch - ARM.
When the switches are moved to OFF, check that
11. Intercom switch - OFF. the caution lights burn steadily; then move the
switches to ENGAGE, and check that caution lights
12. Communications - Check. go out.

Check communications with ground station, carrier 6. SAStest switch - MON, then OFF.
pilot, and chase pilot.
Move SAS test switch to MON, and check that the
13. Intercom switch - ON. SAS pitch yaw, pitch, and roll caution lights blink
continuously; then release switch to OFF.
14. APUNo.1 - Start.
7. Yaw, pitch, and roll function switches - OFF, then
ENGAGE.
As APU No.1 comes up to speed, hydraulic pres-
sure will increase to as much as 4500 psi for a
When switches are moved to OFF, check that the
short time. However, pressure should stabilize caution lights burn steadily; then move the switches
at 3200 to 3400 psi within 30 seconds after APU
No. 1 starts. to ENGAGE,and check that the caution lights go out.
NOTE
15. APU No. 2 - Start.
If a SAS malfunction is suspected during flight,
the pilot can perform the preceding check at his
As APU No.2 comes up to speed, hydraulic pres- discretion. The SAS check may be performed
sure will increase to as much as 4500 psi for a on anyone function or a combination of pitch,
short time. However, pressure should stabilize roll, and yaw functions.
at 3200 to 3400 psi within 30 seconds after APU
No.2 starts. COUNTDOWN.
16. No. 1 generator switch - ON. 1. Liquid oxygen transfer switch OFF (performed
by launch operator) - Check.
Move No.1 generator switch momentarily to RE-
SET, then to ON. Check No.1 generator voltage. 2. Fuel quantity gage knob - Set at preselected start
point or 100 percent.
17. No. 2 generator switch - ON.
3. Instrumentation switches - ON.
MoveNo.2 generator switch momentarily to RESET,
then to ON. Check No.2 generator voltage. 4. Ball nose test button - Depress; then release.
18. No.1 and No.2 generator-out lights - OUT. Depressing the ball nose test button electrically
19. DC voltmeter selector switch - STRAIN-GAGE. simulates a predetermined airplane attitude, and
the ball nose should drive to a position that cancels
20. DCvoltmeter switch - BUS. out the signal and causes the angle-of-attack indi-
cator to show about a 5-degree nose-down indication.
The sideslip indicator will also read about a 15-
Check voltage on dc voltmeter. degree sideslip to the left. When the button is
released, the ball nose should drive to the extreme
SAS IN-FLIGHT CHECK. position and appear as a 40-degree nose-up indi-
cation on the attitude indicator and a 30-degree
Before launch, perform the following functional check sideslip to the right on the sideslip indicator. These
of the SAS system. readings should be maintained for 2 to 3 seconds;
1. "Yar" function switch - STDBY. then the ball nose should resume normal operation,
driving rapidly without overshoot to indicate the
o
2. Gain selector knobs - Set. actual angle of attack and sideslip of the airplane.
Set the gain selectors at the following: yaw, 8;
pitch, 6; roll, 8. NOTE
3. Yaw, pitch, and roll function switches - ENGAGE.
Check that the yaw, pitch, and roll caution lights Since the actual airplane attitude mayapproxi-
are out. mate that of the error signal when the button is
pressed, positive indications of proper ball
4. SAS test switch - WORK, then OFF. nose operation are full-scale readings obtained
Move SAS test switch to WORKand check that the on the indicators when the button is released -
SASyaw, pitch, and roll caution lights blink contin- and the subsequent return to normal angle-of-
uously; then release switch to OFF. attack and sideslip indications.
2-8

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section II

5. Instrument readings - Check. See figure 2-4 for 14. Chamber and stage 2 igniter pressure gage -
proper instrument reading before pressurization. Check, (both pointers, 0 psi).

15. Data recorder - ON.

6. Vent, pressurization, and jettison lever - JETTISON.
16. Engine precool switch - PRECOOL.
The tests will be conducted concurrently on all three
systems (liquid oxygen, ammonia, and hydrogen The engine will continue to prime (at high flow
peroxide).
rates) until the actual start stops the prime.

7. Jettison stop switches - JETT. 17. Engine prime switch - PRIME.

Launch operator will visually check for vapor emit- Move engine prime switch to PRIME for one second,
ting at the jettison port, and notify X-15 Airplane and check ignition ready light ON. Approximately
pilot. 30 seconds is required to prime, with the prime
valve at high-flow orifice position.
8. Vent, pressurization, and jettison lever -
PRESSURIZE. NOTE

When the vent pressurization, and jettison lever

is moved to PRESSURIZE, ammonia and liquid
. If the engine precool switch is off, the engine
prime valve is actuated to the low-flow orifice
oxygen will be supplied to the turbopumps. Hydrogen position.
peroxide will be supplied to the pump emergency
cutoff valve.
. The prime can be stopped at any time by placing
the engine prime switch at STOP PRIME momen-
9. Liquid oxygen top-off flapper valve - Check.
tarily, then releasing it. This closes the liquid
oxygen and NH3 tank main propellant valves and
Obtain confirmation from the launch operator that the H202 safety valve. The engine is then auto-
vaporous oxygen is no longer emitting from the matically purged for 17 seconds.
liquid oxygen overboard vent of the X-15 Airplane
pylon. 18. Turbopump idle button - Depress for one second.
19. Telemeter and radar switches - Recheck.
I WARNING I 20. Communications - Check.

If liquid oxygen continues to emit from the pylon Check communication with ground station, carrier
vent, indicating that the flapper valve is stuck pilot, and chase pilot.
open, the launch must be aborted.
21. Instruments - Check.
10. SAS function switches - ON. After pressurization and before launch, check in-
struments for proper readings. See figure 2-5.
11. Flight controls - Check.
22. Ready-to-Iaunch switch - ON.
Move all flight controls through allowable travel;
receive verbal acknowledgment from the launch Verbally check with carrier pilot and launch opera-
operator that all controls are operating properly. tor that the ready-to-Iaunch light is on.
Refer to "Launch Limitations" in Section V for
allowable travel. 23. Igniter idle switch - IGNITER.

12. Trim system - Check. Operation of igniter idle is limited to 30 seconds.

When the igniter idle switch is placed to IGNITER,
Move horizontal stabilizer through allowable trim the ignition-ready light goes out for 2 seconds while
travel; receive verbal acknowledgment from the the engine is purged with helium and the igniter
launch operator that trim is operating the stabi- spark plugs are energized. When this phase is
lizer properly. Refer to "Launch Limitations" completed, the ignition-ready light comes on again.
in Section V for allowable trim settings. When 7 seconds remain of the normal igniter idle
phase, the no-drop caution light will come on. With
13. Launch trim - Set. the no-drop caution light on, the pilot must terminate
the igniter idle phase (by moving the engine prime
Reset launch trim; receive acknowledgment from switch to STOP PRIME) or continue on to the launch
launch operator. phase .

2-9

I
Section II T. O. 1X-15-1

All readings are based on requirements

for a full-duration mission.

(APU'S OPERATING)
INSTRUMENT LOW NORMAL HIGH REMARKS

PROPELLANT SOURCE
3000 3SOO to 3600 3900
PRESSUREGAGE

H202 SOURCEAND PURGE Low limit is minimum pressure required for full-
2500 3Soo to 3600 3900 duration mission. High limit is maximum relief
PRESSUREGAGE (BOTH POINTERS) valve setting.
APU SOURCEPRESSUREGAGE
3000 3500 to 3900 4200
(BOTH POINTERS)

APU 02 TANK PRESSUREGAGE 500 550 to 610 630 Pressure above high limit indicates faulty
(BOTH POINTERS) regulator.
Low limit is minimum pressure required for 30
CABIN HELIUMSOURCE minutes operation of air conditioning and pres-
3000 3SOO to 3600 3900 surization system. High limit is maximum relief
PRESSUREGAGE
valve setting.
HYDRAULICTEMPERATURE Low limit is minimum temperature for APU
_100°C _75°C to O°C 95°C starting.
GAGES
3200 to 3400 4SOO is pump relief. valve setting and is accept-
2600 4500 able for 30 seconds after APU start.
HYDRAULICPRESSUREGAGE (STATIC)
(AT MAX
(BOTH POINTERS) FLOW 2900 to 3400
3500 is maximum after 30 seconds after APU
DEMAND) (WITH FLOW 3SOO start.
DEMAND)
APU BEARING TEMPERATURE
25°C 80°C to 130°C 150°C
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS)

Continuous low temperature operation indicates

possible injector malfunction, using excessive
MIXING CHAMBER TEMPERATURE liquid nitrogen. Temperature increase above
-60°C _45°C to -35°C -25°C -2SoC indicates possible injector malfunction
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS) or liquid nitrogen depletion. Liquid nitrogen
depletion will best be indicated by rapid decrease
of cabin helium source pressure.

Limits shown are required or proper operation of

AC VOLTMETERS 190 195 to 205 210
airplane components.

LIQUIDOXYGEN BEARING
TEMPERATURE GAGE
_40°C - 10°C to 30°C 30°C

H202 TANK AND "C" POINTER 575 S75 to 600 620 High limit indicates excessive regulator leakage.
ENGINE CONTROL
LINE PRESSURE
"T" POINTER Tank vented.
GAGE 0

High limit indicates regulator leakage. Vent

"A" POINTER 0 10 to 30 68 valve manually closed.
PROPELLANT TANK
PRESSURE GAGE
"L" POINTER o to 5 Tank vented.
X-15-1-51-9

Figure 2-4.
2-10
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section n

\ NOTE
'-'
All readings are based on requirements
for a full-duration mission.

(APU'S OPERATING)

INSTRUMENT LOW NORMAL HIGH REMARKS

PROPELLANT SOURCE
PRESSUREGAGE 2500 3300 to 3400
Low limit is minimum pressure required for full-
H,O, SOURCEAND PURGE duration operation.
2000 2700 to 3200
PRESSUREGAGE (BOTH POINTERS)

PROPELANT TANK PRESSURE

45 4S to 58 68 High limit is high setting of primary relief valve.
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS)
"L" POINTER 45 45 to 58 68
PROPELLANT PUMP
INLET PRESSURE
"A" POINTER 45 45 to 58 68 Pressure readings applicable only after engine
GAGE prime sequence is initiated.

APU SOURCEPRESSUREGAGE Low limit is minimum pressure required for full-

3000 3500 to 3700
(BOTH POINTERS) duration mission.

APU H,O, TANK PRESSURE Pressure above high limit indicates faulty
500 550 to 610 630
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS) regulator.

CABIN HELIUMSOURCE Low limit is minimum pressure required for 30

3000 3300 to 3400 minutes operation of air conditioning and pres-
PRESSUREGAGE
surization system.

HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGES -75°C _75°C to 150°C 230°C Temperature above high limit will cause seal
deterioration.

HYDRAULICPRESSUREGAGE
2600 2900 to 3400 3500 High limit is system relief valve setting.
(BOTH POINTERS)

Continuous low-temperature operation indicates

possible injector malfunction, using excessive
liquid nitrogen. Temperature above -25°C
MIXING CHAMBER TEMPERATURE indicates possible injector malfunction or liquid
-60°C _45°C to -35°C -25°C
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS) nitrogen depletion. Liquid nitrogen depletion will
best be indicated by rapid decrease of helium
source pressure.

AC VOLTMETERS 190 195 to 205 210 Limits shown are required for proper operation
of airplane components.

APU BEARING TEMPERATURE

25°C 80°C to 130°C 150°C
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS)

H,O, TANK AND ENGINE High limit indicates above-normal regulator

-
1'1

CONTROL LINEPRESSUREGAGE pressure. Pressures below 575 will result in

550 575 to 600 620
pressures below the engine specification inlet
(BOTH POINTERS) requirements for full-thrust missions.
LIQUIDOXYGEN BEARING If bearing temperature is below low limit, launch
TEMPERATURE GAGE -40°C - 10°Cto 30°C 30°C must be aborted.

X-15-1-51-12

Figure 2-5.
2-11

I
Section II T. O. 1X-15-1

4. Propellant tank pressure gage - Check.

5. H202 ta.nk and engine control line pressure gage -
Check.
The igniter idle phase must be terminated im- FLIGHT CHARACTERISTICS.
mediately if the idle-end caution light comes
on, as damage to the engine chamber will occur
because of insufficient cooling. Refer to Section VI for information regarding flight
characteristics.
24. Chamber and stage 2 igniter pressure -
gage Check
ENGINE OPERATION.
(short hand, 150 psi in approximately 5 seconds).

25. Ready-to-Iaunch - Countdown by carrier pilot. NORMAL INDICATIONS DURING START.

BALLISTIC CONTROL AND REACTION AUGMENTA- When the thrust chamber is fired, the following indi-
cations will be evident in about the sequence given.
TION SYSTEM OPERATION.
These indications occur in rapid sequence (about 5
seconds) .
Since most missions will involve flight at altitudes
where ballistic control system operation will be re- 1. Turbine whine.
quired to maintain airplane attitude, the ballistic control
system should be turned on before launch, in order to 2. Turbine exhaust steam will be seen at the exhaust
be available for use when required. The reaction aug-
mentation system should be turned on as soon as pos-
overboard discharge line.
sible after engine burnout. To turn on the ballistic
control and reaction augmentation systems, proceed
3. Fuel and liquid oxygen manifold pressure will rise
as follows: to rated values and will be stabilized by the pump
governor.
1. No.1 and No.2 ballistic control switches - ON. 4. Igniters will be operating.

2. Accelerometer switch - AUTO. 5. Pressure of the chamber will rise to a point where
chamber pressure will be shown on the indicator
3. Reaction augmentation function switches - ENGAGE. gage.

4. RAS-outlight - Checkout. The liquid oxygen and fuel will automatically stop
bleeding overboard.
LAUNCH.
6. Chamber pressure will reach rated value.
During launch, the following X-15 Airplane control
surface deflections are recommended: 7. Thrust chamber will emit a great deal of noise.

Stabilizer ENGINE THRUST CONTROL.

Symmetrical deflection 00 to _20 (stabilizer
leading edge down) Engine thrust is controlled by movement of the throttle
between 50% and 100% thrust. Engine response to
Differential deflection throttle movement is very rapid, 50% to 100% in approx-
imately 1. 5 seconds.
Vertical stabilizer
NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS.
Speed brakes 00 (in)
See figure 2-6 for proper instrument readings for all
Flaps o 0 (up)
systems during powered flight.
ENGINE BURNOUT.
After release from the carrier airplane, proceed as
follows: Propellant exhaustion will result in the following:

1. Throttle - Inboard to 50%. 1. Fuel or oxygen manifold pressure d,ulJ'=', with con-
sequent shutdown by low manifold pressure safety
circuit.
Throttle must be moved to 50%by the time the idle-
end caution light comes on.
2. Fuel manifold pressure drops below oxygen pressure.
2. Chamber and stage 2 igniter pressure gage - Check. 3. Engine runs rough or jet flame is unsteady.

3. Propellant manifold pressure gage - Check. 4. Pump cavitates with consequent overspeed cutoff.
2-12
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section II

NOTE
COCKPIT INSTRUMENT READINGS All readings are based on requirements
IN FLIGHT for a full-duration mission.

(ENGINE OPERATING)

INSTRUMENT LOW NORMAL HIGH REMARKS

H20> SOURCE AND PURGE 3000 (GRADUALLY Pressure below low limit may result in erratic
800
PRESSURE GAGE (BOTH POINTERS) DECREASING) engine operation.

PROPELLANT TANK Upper limit is high setting of pressure relief

40 45 to 53 68
PRESSURE GAGE (BOTH POINTERS) valve.

PROPELLANT PUMP "L" POINTER 35 40 to 70

INLET PRESSURE
GAGE "A" POINTER 35 40 to 55

APU H20> TANK PRESSURE

500 550 to 610 630
GAGE (BOTH POINTERS)

CABIN HELIUM SOURCE Liquid nitrogen nearing depletion when pres-

1000 to 3400
PRESSURE GAGE sure reaches approximately 1000.

HYDRAULIC TEMPERATURE GAGES -55.C O.C to 150°C 230°C Temperature above high limit can cause seal
deterioration.

HYDRAULICPRESSUREGAGE Low limit is minimum pressure required for sur-

2600 2900 to 3400 3500 face deflection at maximum load. High limit is
(BOTH POINTERS) system relief valve setting.
APU BEARINGTEMPERATURE Temperature above high limit may cause dam-
25°C 80°C to 130°C 200°C
GAGE (BOTHPOINTERS) age to APU.

Continuous low-temperature operation indicates

possible injectot malfunction, using excessive
MIXING CHAMBERTEMPERATURE liquid nitrogen. Temperature above _25°C indi-
_60°C _45°C to -35°C _25°C
GAGE (BOTHPOINTERS) cates possible injector malfunction or liquid
nitrogen depletion. Liquid nitrogen depletion
will best be indicated by rapid decreose of cabin
helium source pressure.

AC VOLTMETERS 190 195 to 205 210 Limits shown are required for proper operation
of airplane components.

Pressure below 450 may result in malfunction

H202 TANK AND
"C" POINTER 550 575 to 600 620 shutdown. Pressure exceeding high limit indi-
ENGINE CONTROL cates regulator malfunction.
LINE PRESSURE
GAGE Pressure below 565 is below minimum engine
"T" POINTER 550 565 to 600 620 specification H202 inlet requirements for full-
thrust missions.

"L" POINTER 380 440 to 1050 1200

PROPELLANT
MANIFOLD Pressure above high limit indicates injector
blockage. Operation below low limit will result
PRESSURE GAGE in malfunction shutdown.
"A" POINTER 435 495 to 1150 1300

LONG Operation outside limits shown may result in

CHAMBERAND 310 345 to 600 630
POINTER engine damage.
STAGE 2 IGNITER
PRESSUREGAGE SHORT During operation, second-stage igniter pressure
315 350 to 630 660
POINTER should be above main chamber pressure.
X-15-1-51-13

Figure 2-6.
2-13

I
 Section II T. O. 1X-15-1

SHUTDOWN PROCEDURE. 4. Jettisoning - Check.

To shut down engine, proceed as follows: Have chase pilot verify that fuel is jettizoning.

1. Throttle - OFF. 5. Vent, pressurization, and jettison lever - VENT.

Retard throttle to 50%;then move outboard to OFF. Mter propellant has been jettisoned, move control
to VENT.
NOTE
DESCENT.
The ignition-ready light will go out for approxi-
mately 5 seconds. During this time, the engine Normally, the descent will be prebriefed, however,
is purged with helium. After purging, the it will be constantly monitored and controlled from the
ignition-ready light comes on. The engine is ground.
now on stand-by prime condition. Restart can be
made by moving throttle to 50%.

2. Igniter idle switch - OFF.

3. Engine prime switch - STOP PRIME momentarily, Because of the high rate of descent and the re-
then release. duced stability at low Mach numbers, the speed
brakes are not to be used at full deflection below
4. Enginemaster switch - OFF. Mach 1. 5.

5. Vent, pressurization, and jettison lever - VENT. BEFORE LANDING.

ABORTED LAUNCH. During descent, just before entering the landing pattern,
check all controls and instruments for landing.
If for any reason the decision is made to abort the launch
after the countdown has started, proceed as follows: NOTE

1. Prime switches or switch - OFF or STOP PRIME. Before landing, preferably on the downwind leg
of the landing pattern, but in no case above
2. 'Engine master switch - OFF. 17,000 feet above sea level, move vent, pres-
surization, and jettison lever to PRESSURIZE,
3. No.1 and No.2 generator switches - OFF. to prevent sand and dust from entering the air-
plane propellant system during landing. The
Check that both No. 1 and No. 2 generator-off lights altitude limitation is necessary to preclude
come on. structural deformation of the airplane propel-
lant tanks due to a pressure differential which
4. APU switches - OFF. would tend to collapse the tanks.

5. Oxygenselector - B-52. LANDING.

Reselect B-52 oxygen supply, and check. See figure 2-7 for the recommended landing pattern and
procedures. See figure 2-8 for the recommended low
6. Ventral arming switch - DE-ARM. speed, low altitude landing pattern.

7. Carrier pilot - Notify.

Notify carrier pilot and launch operator when launch
abort procedure is completed.
. To provide ground clearance, the lower ventral
CAPTIVE JETTISON. must be jettisoned before landing. The ventral
should be jettisoned a minimum of 1500 feet
To jettison fuel from the X-15 Airplane after an aborted above the terrain.
launch, proceed as follows:
. Directional control is reduced when the lower
1. Source pressure - Check. ventral is jettisoned; however, adequate direc-
tional control is available for landing.
2. Jettison stop switches - Recheck JETT.
AFTER LANDING.
3. Vent, pressurization, and jettison lever - JETTISON.
After landing, as soon as the airplane stops, proceed
Check jettison by pressure bleed on the source as follows:
pressure gages. Stop jettisoning when propellant
source pressure reaches 600 psi. 1. Canopy - Open.
2-14

I
 T. O. lX-15-1 Sectionn

2. Face plate - Remove. 8. Jettison trim switch - OFF.

3. Ram-air door - Close. 9. Speed brake handles - Full forward.
4. Wing flap switch - UP. 10. Vent, pressurization, and jettison lever - VENT.
5. SAS function switches - STDBY. 11. Throttle - OFF.

6. Ventral arming switch - DE-ARM. 12. Jettison stop switches - STOP.

7. External power - ON. 13. Auxiliary launch switch - OFF.
8. APU switches - OFF. 14. Landinggear handle - IN.
Bleed off hydraulic system pressure. This will INSTRUMENTPANEL.
help prevent accumulator failure due to slow bleed-
down of hydraulic system pressure, especially at
1. Engine master switch - OFF.
elevated temperatures.
2. Emergency battery switch - OFF.
9. Speed brake levers - Full aft position. 3. Generatorswitches- OFF.
4. APUswitches - OFF.
I WARNING ~
5. Ballistic control switches - OFF.
Before operating the speed brakes, be sure the CENTER PEDESTAL.
fuselage rear section around the speed brakes
is clear, because the brakes operate rapidly and 1. SAS function switches - STDBY.
forcefully and could injure any personnel near
the brakes. 2. Research instrumentation - OFF.
10. Center control stick - Full forward. 3. Ram-air lever - CLOSED.
11. Rudder pedals - Actuate. 4. Cockpit ram-air knob - CLOSED(in).
Deplete hydraulic pressure by actuating rudder 5. Radar beacon switch - OFF.
pedals.
6. Stable platform instrument switch - ON.
BEFORE LEAVING AIRPLANE.
RIGHT CONSOLE.
Before leaving the airplane, complete the required air-
plane forms and then verify the following cockpit control 1. Canopy emergency release handle - IN.
positions:
2. Stable platform switch - OFF.
LEFT CONSOLE.
3. Nose ballistic rocket heater switch - OFF.
1. Radio controls - OFF.
4. Cockpit lighting switch - OFF.
2. Intercom control - B-52.
5. Indicator, caution, and warning light switch -
3. Vent suit heater switch - OFF. NORMAL.
4. Wing flap switch - UP. 6. Windshield heater switches (two) - OFF.
5. Antenna selector switch - LOWER. 7. Pressure cooling lever - OFF.
6. Trim control switch - NORMAL. 8. Blower switches - OFF.
7. Ready-to-Iaunch switch - OFF. 9. All circuit breakers - OFF.

2-15
Section II T. O. lX-15-1

LANDING

HIGH KEY POINT 28,900 FEET,

300 KNOTS, GEAR AND FLAPS UP,
ROLL INTO 4S-DEGREE BANKED TURN.

9O-DEGREE POINT
4S-DEGREE BANK

3 MILES

Lf'1

3-3/4 MILES

I I X-15-1-00-18

Figure 2-7

2-16
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section n

PATTERN (TYPICAL)

. NOTE
Before landing, preferably on the downwind leg of
the landing pattern, but in no case above 17,000 feet
above sea level, move vent, pressurization, and jetti-
son control lever to PRESSURIZE, to prevent sand
and dust from entering the airplane propellant system
during landing. The altitude limitation is necessary to
preclude structural deformation of the airplane pro-
pellant tanks due to a pressure diHerential which

· would tend to collapse the tanks.

To ensure safe recovery of the ventral, the ventral

. should be jeHi50ned 1500 feet above the terrain.

If the high key point for landing cannot be reached,
reduce airspeed to 240 knots IAS until subsequent key
point can be reached. Then dive to increase airspeed to
300 knots IAS.

.................. ',".OM .......

. . . .. ~._. . "OM'
._..
LOW KEY POINT
...." ...-.
. . OM MO.
.. 14,100 FEET AT 180 DEGREES . ....---....
(7S SECONDS I
. _.- -.. .
20,900 FEET
(108 SECONDSI

'"

... - - - -----
.- - --

9O-DEGREE POINT
8SOO
FEET - - -
-
300 KNOTS,
(46 SECONDS)
90 DEGREES FROM RUNWAY -."---- _.---
_.---
--- --- _-:
-. .
_.: .-:,,",J--;'"

.-
--
ROLLOUTOFWRN 3SOOFEET, ::::--_
-
-.
-_ _
-
~:..=-
_=
~
FLARECOMPLETED
2200 FEET
262KNOTS
-=--
=- -

_'_ _ ___
_ :
_~
~. -- ~
~
_

300KNOTS,
LOWER
FLAPS.-=,'
--=- , - TOUCHDOWN
200KNOTS _ __
?\- (ISSECONDS)
~ ~ .-=- -- (OS~DS) _ __.= ~_

119 SECONDSI~
- --- -
_-~
BEGIN 1.5G PULL-OUT,
3000 FEET,300 KNOTS,
DROP GEAR.
-- -- ~

-...-- --- -~--~

-- ---~;;=:--
--..-- --- -'
=-"'" ~
- - ----- -
--- ~- - - - - -----------
X-15-1-00-19

2-17

I
 Section II T. O. 1X-15-1

LANDING

ALTERNATE HIGH KEY POINT 22,500

FEET, 240 KNOTS, GEAR AND FLAPS
UP, ROLL INTO 3D-DEGREE BANKED TURN -

HIGH KEYPOINT 15,200 'EET,

240 KNOTS,GEAR AND FLAPS
UP, ROLLINTO 45-DEGREEBANKED

TURN "M
~SECONDSI
(1B3 SECON~

VENTRAL JETTISON

ALTERNATEHIGH5000 FT'~
KEYPOINT
3D-DEGREE
BANK

\...
HIGH KEY POINT
45-DEGREE BANK 1
2 MILES
3 MILES

T LOW KEY POINT, ALTERNATE

1-1/4 MILES
,- LOW KEY POINT

! 3/4MILE
1 3/4t~1
LE
I

2-1/4
/-
MILES
~
4-1/4 MILES

X-15-1-00-1IB

Figure 2-8
2-18

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section II

PATTERN (LOW SPEED-LOW ALTITUDE)

NOTE
. Before landing, preferably on the downwind leg of
the landing pattern, but in no case above 17,000 feet
above sea level, move vent, pressurization, and jetti-
son control lever to PRESSURIZE, to prevent sand
and dust from entering the airplane propellant system
during landing. The altitude limitation is necessary to
preclude structural deformation of the airplane pro-
pellant tanks due to a pressure differential which

. would tend to collapse the tanks.

To ensure safe recovery of the ventral, the ventral
should be jettisoned 1500 feet above the terrain.

:~~~~~~~;~~~~~;~~~-;~~;:=
. 11.500 FEETAT 180 DEGREES:'.'" ..-...............-.
(93 SECONDS)

---
'- -
-'-- --

---
9O-DEGREE POINT --..----- -.---
-5800 FEET, - - -.- .-- ,.-....
240 KNOTS. 90 DEGREESFROM- --
RUNWAY (36 SECONDS).
- -

r
TVENTRAL JETTISON -
_ - FLARECOMPLETED~~' -

'_ _ --= -_ _ _ _: _ .2290FEET.

174KNOTS. __.'':..-::::
.- ROLL
OUT
OFTURN
3200FEET,._
~ - - ~-=-- - :'- - ~
240KNOTS,
LOWER
FLAPS. -' -' - - .-
.

-~- ''=,,\
.~, ...:...;~= (1;6SECON~TOUCHDO~
"""' -~===-~
(0 SECONDS)
- -- _ . -----.
=:-- -----
" 8EGIN1.29 G PULL-OUT,--
ZL JETTISON
(15.6 SECONDS)~ _~ 2700 FEET.240 KNOTS,
---- -=-
- - - --- DROP
GEAR.
- ~---- "--. D
------
----- -'
--=---
-- -'- ~--
-- ~
~----
::::=--
..----
- -- - ~- -....

X-15-1-00-1DC

2-19/2-20

I
 T. O. lX-15-1

SECTION III
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE PAGE

Engine Failure .................... 3-1 Emergency Entrance . . .. .. . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Captive Operation Emergencies ..... 3-2 Fuel System Failure . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . 3-5
Emergency Launch ............. 3-2 Turbopump Failure During Flight. . . . . . . . 3-5
MaximumGlide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 Propellant Jettisoning ........... 3-8

Forced Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 APU System Failure ............ 3-8

Fire or Explosion ........... 3-3 Electrical Power Supply System Failure . .. 3-8
Elimination of Smoke or Fumes . . . . . . . . . * Hydraulic System Failure ... ........ .. 3-9
Ejection.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Flight Control Hydraulic System Failure ... 3-9
Ventral Jettison System Failure ... . .. . . . 3-5 Ballistic Control System Failure .. . . 3-14

ENGINE FAILURE. by the liquid oxygen together with excessive vapor pres-
sure (normal liquid oxygen tank vapor pressure after
Failure of rocket engines is, as a rule, the result of tank has been filled is 20 to 24 psia), or insufficient
thrust chamber burnout. Specific information on this liquid oxygen tank pressure can cause pump cavitation.
type engine failure is given in "Thrust Chamber Burn- When liquid oxygen pump cavitation occurs, the over-
out" in this section. If engine failure is due to mal- speeding turbopump is stopped by the overspeed pro-
function of the fuel control system or improper operating tection system. When an engine is shut down by the
technique, a start can usually be made to restore engine turbopump overspeed protection system, the turbopump
operation, provided time and altitude permit. However, overspeed caution light is illuminated.
if the failure is an obvious failure within the engine,
a start should not be attempted.
Indications of Pump Cavitation.
MALFUNCTION SHUTDOWNS.
Automatic malfunction shutdowns can occur during the Cavitation is accompanied by the following indications:
engine start phase or during actual engine operation.
The design of the malfunction shutdown circuits is such
. Increase of pitch in whine of turbine.
that restart attempts can safely be made after a mal-
function shutdown. This is because a restart will not be
successful if the malfunction which caused the original . Noignition.
shutdown has not been corrected. Malfunction shutdowns
which can occur during the start phase are those due to . Noflamefrom chamber.
main or first stage propellant valve malfunction, stage 2
ignition malfunction, or engine turbopump overspeed. . Nonoise from chamber.
Malfunction shutdowns which can occur during engine
operation are those caused by engine turbopump over- . Nothrust chamber pressure.
speed or excessive engine vibration. If a malfunction
shutdown occurs, attempt a restart. Refer to "Engine . Very high momentary fuel manifold pressure.
Restart" in this section.
Causes of Pump Cavitation.
. Very low liquid oxygenmanifold pressure.
Failure to sufficiently prime the liquid oxygen pump . Turbopump stops and overspeed indicator light,
discharge line to the engine, excessive heat absorption in cockpit, comes on.
*At the time of publication of this flight manual, information for various specific procedures was not available.
These will be supplied as soon as available.
3-1

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1

ENGINE RESTART. a. X-15 hazardous to B-52 - Launch X-15. (This

may be preceded by X-15 pilot ejection if the X-15
If the engine has failed or has been shut down auto- is hazardous to the X-15 pilot. )
matically and it is determined that a restart is feasible,
proceed as follows: b. B-52 hazardous to X-15 below critical altitude -
Throttle - OFF. Eject X-15 pilot and B-52 crew.

Engine reset button - Push (one second). c. B-52 hazardous to X-15 above critical altitude -
Launch X-15 and eject B-52 crew.
3. Engine prime switch - PRIME.

Move engine prime switch to PRIME for one second d. X-15 emergency not immediately hazardous -
and check ignition-ready light ON. Approximately
Return to base for landing.
30 seconds is required to prime, with prime valve
at high-flow orifice position. e. B-52 emergency not immediately hazardous -
Return to base for landing.
4. Throttle - As desired.
EMERGENCY LAUNCH.
THRUST CHAMBER BURNOUT.

Thrust chamber burnout can be determined by various In case of an emergency aboard the B-52 which en-
engine indications which can be verified by the pilot or dangers theX-15or in case of an emergency in the X-15
the chase pilot. These indications are as follows: which would endanger the B- 52, it is possible to
emergency-launch the X-15. If time and altitude per-
a. Fuel manifold pressure drops below oxygen mani- mit a launching of this type, proceed as follows:
fold pressure, accompanying cylinder "groaning. "
b. Engine emits loud scream or howl. 1. Oxygen system - Switch from carrier supply to
X-15 Airplane supply.
c. Yellow streak of flame or yellow bushy flame is 2. Ventral arming switch - ARM.
evident.

d. Chamber pressure drops while manifold pressures 3. Emergency battery - ON.

are within specified range.
If APU's are not operating at the time of emergency
launch, the emergency battery must be on to enable
CAPTIVE OPERATION EMERGENCIES. APU start.

BEFORE TAKE-OFF. 4. No. 1 and No. 2 APU switches - ON.

Monitor hydraulic gages for both systems as APU's
In case a "FIRE" warning, "APU COMPT HOT, " or come up to speed.
"H202 HOT" light comes on before take-off, notify the
carrier pilot that an X-15 emergency is in progress
(refer to "Fire or Explosion" in this section), and pre-
5. No. 1 and No. 2 generator switches - To RESET
momentarily, then to ON.
pare to abandon the airplane.
6. Ram-air lever - Recheck CLOSED.
IN- FLIGHT.
7. Cockpit helium switch - ON.
In case of an emergency during captive flight, the
carrier pilot must verify the emergency and ascertain 8. Pressure-cooling lever - ON.
the danger to the crew. It will be the carrier pilot's 9. Blower switches - ON.
responsibility to initiate one or more of the following
emergency procedures: 10. Launch light - On.
a. X-15 emergency launch. (Refer to "Emergency
Launch" in this section.) 11. SAS function switches - ENGAGE.
b. X-15 pilot ejection. (Refer to "Ejection" in this 12. Ventral jettison button - Push.
section. )
13. Instrumentation master switch - ON.
c. Abort mission or launch. (Refer to "Aborted
Launch" in Section II. ) 14. Data switch - ON.
The five basic rules covering
procedure are as follows:
selection of the proper 15. Vent, pressurization,
JETTISON.
and jettison lever -
3-2
 T. O. 1X-15-1

MAXIMUMGliDE. to the nearest available base where a landing can be

made. Obtain assistance from chase pilot if pos-
Glide distance may be varied with Mach to achieve the sible. Reconfirm controllability before descent
desired distance. During gliding flight, high rates of below safe ejection altitude.
descent will be experienced; speed brakes will increase
the rate of descent considerably and should only be used
at speeds above Mach 1. 5. Speeds above Mach 1. 5 will 6. If fire is confirmed or if aerodynamic control is
usually occur at high altitude and will allow sufficient lost - Eject.
time to reduce the rate of descent before entering the
landing phase. See figure 3-1 for maximum glide for ELECTRICAL FIRE.
given initial Mach numbers.
In case of an electrical fire, attempt to isolate fire by
FORCED LANDING. moving circuit breakers off one at a time. Allow suf-
ficient time for the indication of fire to cease. When
In case of either inability to retract the speed brakes source of fire is found, leave the affected circuit de-
or inadvertent extension of the landing gear before energized, and restore power to remaining circuits.
entering the landing pattern, certain precautions must
be observed. (See figure 3-2. )
H202 COMPARTMENT OVERHEAT.
FffiE OR EXPLOSION.
If the "H2~ COMP HOT" light comes on, immediately
In case of a fire or explosion, the procedures given in notify the carrier pilot that an X-15 emergency is in
the following paragraphs should be accomplished. progress. Then prepare for an emergency launch
However, an important factor in determining the course (refer to "Emergency Launch" in this section), in case
of action to be taken depends on the effect the fire or an emergency launch becomes necessary.
explosion has on the flight control systems. Since a
failure of the aerodynamic flight control system could
occur as a result of the fire or explosion, a careful
check of the aerodynamic system should be made to If the APU "H202 HOT" light comes on, immediately
determine whether a safe landing can be made. notify the carrier pilot that an X-15 emergency is in
progress. Determine which APU system is overheated
ENGINE FIRE. and proceed as follows:

If a fire-warning light comes on or if there are other 1. APU switch - OFF.

indications of fire, proceed as follows:
The APU system that is overheated must be shut
1. Nitrogen or helium release selector switch - Check down.
AUTO.

With the nitrogen or helium release selector switch

2. APU switch - JETT.
at AUTO when the fire-warning system is activated,
Maximum time for jettison is approximately 27
the engine is automatically shut down and the engine
seconds. Launch operator and chase pilot will
compartment purged. If automatic shutdown is
monitor jettison pattern.
successful, proceed to step 3. However, if the
engine fails to shut down, proceed to step 2. 3. Prepare for emergency launch.
2. Shut down engine.
(Refer to "Emergency Launch" in this section.)
a. Engine master switch - OFF.
Moving the engine master switch to OFF purges
the engine with helium for approximately 17 If the" H202 LOW" caution light comes on, notify the
seconds. carrier pilot that an X-15 emergency is in progress.
Shut down affected APU and prepare for an aborted
b. Tank shutoff and N2 bleed switch - OFF. launch.

c. Nitrogen or helium release

ON.
selector switch - APU COMPARTMENT OVERHEAT.

If the "APU COMP HOT" light comes on, immediately

3. Throttle - OFF. notify the carrier pilot that an X-15 emergency is in
progress. Determine which APU system is overheated
4. Igniter idle switch - OFF. and proceed as follows:
5. If fire cannot be confirmed, land as soon as possible. 1. APU switch - OFF.
If fire cannot be confirmed or if it goes out, estab- The APU system that is overheated must be shut
lish controllability and jettison propellants en route down.

3-3
 T.O.IX-15-1

MAXIMUM GLIDE DISTANCE AND TIME

(TO 20,000 FEET)

.....
...
...
§

1M
...
...

§-

EXAMPLE: From 80,000 feet at Mach 2, 465 seconds will be required to descend to
20,000 feet and 68 nautical miles will be traveled.

Figure 3-1
3-4
 T.O. lX-15-1

2. APUswitch- JETT. NOTE

8 Maximum time for j e tt i son is approximately 27 The emergency pressurization helium supply
seconds. Launch operator and chase pilot will will provide sufficient emergency pressure
monitor jettison pattern. for one tank only.

8 3 Prepare for emergency launch.

(Refer to "Emergency Launch" in this section. )

ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM FAILURE.

Failure of the engine fuel system would be the result

of an engine turbopump failure. (Refer to "Turbo-
EJECTION. pump Failure During Flight" in this section. )
8 FUEL LINE PRESSURE LOW.
Escape from the airplane in flight must be made by
means of the ejection seat. Ejection from 200 knots
at zero altitude to any speed and altitude possible by In the event of a low fuel line pressure caution 1i g h t
the carrier airplane can be made while the airplane during flight (above 40, 000 feet), proceed as follows:
ilt attached to the carrier airplane. After launch,
ejection is possible up to Mach 4 and any altitude up 1. Throttle - Reduce.
to 120, 000 feet. The basic seat ejection procedure is
shown in figure 3-5.
Reduce engine thrust setting as necessary to main-
tain fuel inlet pressure at 30 psi. If pressure re-
VENTRAL JETTISON SYSTEM FAILURE.
turns to normal, full throttle 0 per at ion can be
resumed.
The ventral is j e tt i son e d when the ventral jettison
8 button is pushed. If the ventral fails to jettison, as
verified by the chase pilot, pulling the 1and i n g gear
lowering lanyard should jettison the ventral. Receive
2. Continue operation, or shut down.

Operation can be continued at 50% thrust setting

verbal confirmation from the chase pilot that the ven- if fuel inlet pre s sur e remains above 20 psi. If
tral jettisoned. fuel inlet pressure cannot be maintained above 20

8 EMERGENCY ENTRANCE.

Eptergency entrance into the cockpit is made by man-

psi, even at 50% thrust, shut down engine imme-
diately, provided a safe landing can be made.

ually opening the canopy, or if necessary, jettisoning WARNING'

8
I
it. In either case, the e j e c ti on seat must first be
disarmed if the ejection handles are raised.
An engine restart is not to be attempted un-
less pilot or airplane safety necessitates re-
sumption of power.
I WARNING'
TURBOPUMP FAILURE DURING FLIGHT.
Figure 3-4 shows two procedures for emer-
gency entrance. The procedure to be use d A turbopump failure will in most cases be caused by
depends on the po sit ion of the ejection seat pump cavitation, or incorrect governor supply pres-
handgrips. sure. The possibility of a mechanical malfunction of
the relatively simple turbopump assembly is not con-
NOTE sidered likely. Turbopump failure or shutoff, caused
by the overspeed caution light coming on. If the over-
8 Canopy removal by explosive remover is not
considered a fire hazard, as fuel will be de-
speed caution light comes on, the engine may be re-
started in the following manner:
pleted or jettisoned before landing. 1. Throttle - OFF.

8 FUEL SYSTEM FAILURE.

AIRPLANE FUEL SYSTEM FAILURE.

2. Engine reset button

3. Engine precool switch

- Depress (momentarily).

- PRECOOL.
If propellant system pressurization is lost, a caution 4. Engine prime switch - Check PRIME.

8 light ("LOX" or "NH3") will come on. System pres-

sure can be restored for continued low thrust engine
operation or pro121lant jettisoning by moving the pro-
5. Throttle - 50%.
pellant emergency pressurization switch toward the Move t h r 0 tt 1e inboard to 50%; then advance as
ilblmtnated light. required.
3-5
 T. O. lX-15-1

SPEED BRAKES EXTENDED

FORCED LANDING PATTERNS BEFOREENTERING

d (LANDING GROSS WEIGHT 14,200

1IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIlJlllliillllW
POUNDS)
111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111
LANDING PAnERN

90 PEG KEY POINT

325 KNOTS IAS
16,400 FEET

DIVE TO INCREASE AIRSPEED TO 325 KNOTS IAS

BEGIN2-G PUUOUT (18 SECONDSI

325 KNOTSIAS
3900 FEET

WARNING
. Do not je"ison ventral until pull-out has been

. completed.
Do not exceed angle of a"ack of 14 degrees
during pull-out phase.
LOW KEY POINT
300 KNOTS 'AS
29,000 FEET

FLAPS-DOWN

FLARECOMPLETED(8 SECONDS)
27S KNOTSIAS
GEAR-DOWN
VENTRAWmlSON

TOUCHDOWN 10 SECONDS)
180 KNOTS IAS
(FIELD ELEVATION 2200 FEETI

270 DEGKEYPOINT
300 KNOTSIAS
42,000 FEET
FLAPS-UP
GEAR-UP
ROU INTO 45 DEGBANK TURN

10,000
J

. NOTE
Maximum gliding distance with speed brakes WINGS LEVEL GLIDING DISTANCE

.extended is obtained at 200 knots IAS.

If a key point cannot be made at indicated
altitude, glide at 200 knots IAS until a later
KNOTS IAS
200
SPEED BRAKES EXTENDED

DISTANCE PER 10,000

5NMI
FEET

key point can be made with 3000 feet excess 300 3NMI
altitude; then dive off excess altitude to 325 2.S NMI'

increase airspeed to 300 knots IAS. ,X-15-1-73-BA

Figure 3-2
3-6
 T. O. lX-15-1

INADVERTENTLANDING GEAR
LOWERING BEFOREENTERING

..
LANDING PATTERN

-
HIGH KEY POINT
300 KNOTS IAS
45,000 FEET
FLAPS-UP
VENTRAL-JmISON
ROLLINTO 4S DEG BANK TURN

TOUCHDOWN (0 SECI
180 KNOTS IAS
(FIELD ELEVATION 2200 FEET)

FLARE COMPLETED (8 SEC)

241 KNOTS IAS

FLAPS-DOWN

BEGIN 2-G PULL-OUT(16 SEC)

300 KNOTS IAS

I
3400 FEET

ROLL OUT OF TURN

(21 SEC TO TOUCHDOWN)
300 KNOTS IAS
4700 FEET

270 DEG KEY POINT

300 KNOTS IAS
31,000 FEET [I WARNING
Do not exceed angle of attack of
16.5 degrees during pull-out phase.

90 DEG KEYPOINT
300 KNOTS IAS
11,600 FEET

LOW KEYPOINT
300 KNOTS IAS
20,000 FEET

.
o
I

..
NOTE
SCAl E-FEET

Maximum gliding distance with landing gear

10,000
J c

KNOTS IAS
--we-
300
DISTANCE PER 10,000
Sii'Mi"""
'j"'j:j"'Mj
FEET . extended is obtained at 200 knots IAS.
If a key point cannot be made at the indi-
cated altitude. glide at 200 knots IAS until a
later key point can be made with 3000 feet
excess altitude; then dive off excess altitude
X-15-1-73-7A
to increa.se airspeed to 300 knots IAS.

3-7

I
 T.O.1X-15-1

FUEL JETTISON

1M
...
...

§
i
...
Q
;;;)
0-
S
CI

X-15-1-93-5A

Figure 3-3

PROPELLANT JETTISONING.
RESULTS IN
COMPLETE NECESSITATES
In an emergency where the engine propellants must be LOSS OF LOSS OF USE OF
jettisoned, recheck jettison test switches at .TETT;
then move the vent, pressurization, and jettison lever
APU No. 1 Ball nose SAS Mission abort may be
to JETTISON, which allows the propellants to flow
overboard. Approximate time required to jettison a yaw required.
full propellant load is 120 seconds. (See figure 3-3.) APU No.1 All hydraulic Emergency battery to
&2 power attempt to restart
APU SYSTEM FAILURE. All electrical APU. If restart fails,
power ejection is
mandatory.
The dual APU' s provided allow normal operation as
long as one APU is operating. However, certain equip-
ment not required for safe flight will be lost. ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FAILURE.

NOTE COMPLETE ELECTRICAL FAILURE.

If complete electrical failure occurs because of loss

The SAS emergency hydraulic system auto- of both generators, the APU's will continue to operate.
matically provides hydraulic power for the If the APU's are not operating, the emergency battery
SAS pitch and roll servos in the event of a No. must be energized to start the APU's. With both gen-
2 hydraulic system failure. erators failed, the airplane can be landed. If complete
3-8
 T. O. lX-l5-1

electrical failure occurs because of failure of both EMERGENCY BATTERY OPERATION.

APU's, the emergency battery switch must be turned
ON, so that the APU's can be restarted. If the APU's If failure of both APU' s or both generators occurs,
cannot be restarted, ejection is mandatory. the emergency battery must be energized to power the
battery bus. The battery bus supplies power for re-
GENERATOR FAILURE. starting the APU's or to control the APU's.

If either APU or generator fails and cannot be reset, HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FAILURE.
certain missions may be flown, dependent on ground
control. If a failure of this type should occur, proceed
as follows: No emergency system is provided for the hydraulically
operated aerodynamic flight control system, speed
1. No. 1 or No. 2 blower switch - OFF. brakes, and wing flaps. Some airplanes have an SAS
emergency hydraulic system which automatically pro-
2. Vent suit heater switch - OFF. vides hydraulic power to the SAS pitch and roll servos
in the event of a No. 2 hydraulic system failure.
3. Pressure suit ventilation knob - OFF.
FLIGHT CONTROL HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FAILURE.
As soon as the unique research portion of the flight
is over, continue with the following steps.
If failure of one flight control hydraulic system occurs,
4. Instrumentation master switch - OFF. the other system assumes the entire load of aerodynamic
flight control system operation. (Refer to "Aerodynamic
5. Radar beacon circuit breaker - Pull. Flight Control System" in Section I.) However, under
such a condition, available control surface hinge mo-
6. Telemeter master and commutator switches - OFF. ments will be one half their design value, because of
reduction of hydraulic flow.
7. No. 1 and No. 2 blower switches - BLOWER & LN2.
ARTIFICIAL-FEEL SYSTEM FAILURE.
NOTE
The artificial-feel system failure can be indicated by a
Operation of one equipment compartment blower lightening of stick forces (resulting in overcontrol),
at a time will substantially reduce the electrical lack of trim response, and poor stick-centerin.g char-
load; however, 'operation of only one blower will acteristics. If failure of flight control artificial feel
appreciably shorten its life. is encountered, proceed as follows:

GENERATOR RESET PROCEDURE (APU RUNNING). 1. Airspeed - Reduce.

When a generator irregularity occurs, as shown by Reduction of airspeed may reliev.e severe oscilla-
a generator failure light coming on, try to bring the tions of the airplane.
generator back as follows:
2. If control cannot be maintained - Eject.
1. Generator switch - RESET momentarily; then ON.
Ejection is recommended if control cannot be main-
Hold generator switch at RESET momentarily; then tained. If partial control is available, thoroughly
return switch to ON. Generator-out light should check flight characteristics before descending below
go out and remain out if failure was temporary. safe ejection altitude.

2. Generator-out light - Check. TRIM SYSTEM FAILURE.

If light is still on when generator switch is returned If the trim system fails in either extreme-travel posi-
to ON, repeat reset procedure several times. If tion, the maximum force required by the pilot to move
light remains on after several reset attempts, check the control surface to the opposite extreme is not beyond
voltmeter to determine generator output. Then physical capabilities. If the pitch trim knob fails, the
proceed to step 3. trim system can be controlled by the alternate trim
switch. The trim control switch must be moved to
3. Voltmeter - Check. ALTERNA TE before the alternate trim switch is
operable.
a. If voltmeter indication is normal, continue flight
(leave generator switch ON). STABILITY AUGMENTATION SYSTEM (SAS).

b. If voltmeter indicates no charge, continue flight. The stability augmentation system provides aerodynamic
If no indication of charge is shown, continue flight damping on all axes of the airplane. If any axis of the
but place generator switch OFF. SAS fails, control can be maintained by the pilot.
3-9

I
 T.O. 1X-15-1

EMERGENCY ENTRANCE
EJECTION HANDLES
NOT RAISED

o Push yellow button to unlatch cover door on

right side of forward fuselage.

e Pull out manual release handle and rotate han-

dle up and back to unlatch canopy.

e Lift canopy at forward end; then push canopy

full open. ~
1 TO OPEN CANOPY, PUSH BUnON TO OPEN DOOR.
NOTE 2 UPWARD
PULL BACK
TOHANDLE
UNLOCK.OUTBOARD AND ROTATE IT
If canopy cannot be opened with manual 3 IF CANOPY WILL NOT OPEN, PULL YELLOW "Tn
HANDLE TO JEniSON.
release handle, jettison canopy by pulling
yellow nTH handle just forward of manual
release handle.

WARNING
· There is no extension cable on the jetti-
son handle.
· Keep all personnel
tion path.
clear of canopy ejec-

o Open helmet visor to ensure that pilot can

breathe.

e Cut ejection seat initiator hose at centerline

just forward of pressure bulkhead.

NOTE
Hose cut point is painted red.
X-15-1-13-3D

Figure 3-4 (Sheet 1 of 3)

3-10
 T. O. lX-15-1

o Depress foot manacle release buttons if pilot's

feet are locked in stirrups.
o Disconnect personal leads.

o Open lap belt. o Disconnect parachute "D" ring retainer strap

and both parachute risers, in that order.

NOTE
If the lap belt is inside the sacrifice gar-
ment, the front zipper of the garment must
be opened to reach the lap belt. e Remove pilot.

NOTE
If time does not permit manual release of
the pilot, push canopy completely off the
airplane and pull restraint emergency
release handle to free pilot of all restraints.
Pilot's parachute container will remain
with pilot.
6
c

WARNING
Do not stand above seat when restraint
emergency release handle is pulled,
because the headrest is ejected straight
up with explosive force.
X-15-1-73-5A

Figure 3-4 (Sheet 2 of 3)

3-11

I
 T. O. lX-15-1

EMERGENCY ENTRANCE
1 WARNING
EJECTION HANDLES
If the ejection handles are raised, this procedure must be RAISED
followed. Jettisoning the canopy or manually removing
the canopy before the seat is disarmed will cause the
seat to eject.

Remove access panel on top of fuselage, just

aft of canopy.

Cut ejection seat initiator hose at centerline

just forward of bulkhead.

NOTE
Hose cut point is painted red.

o Push yellow button to unlatch cover door on

right side of forward fuselage.

o Pull out manual release handle and rotate

handle up and back to unlatch canopy.

o Lift canopy at forward end, then push up and

aft until canopy completely separates from
airplane.
NOTE
If canopy cannot be opened with manual
release handle, jettison canopy by pulling
yellow "T" handle just forward of manual
release handle.
l'I::S(:tJI::
(:tJT H()SI5: H 15:1'15:
· WARNING
There is no extension cable on the jet-

· tison handle.
Keep all personnel clear of canopy ejec-
tion path.

o Open helmet visor to ensure that pilot can

breathe.

o Simultaneously push both ejection handles out-

board and down to full stowed position.

o Do steps 6 through
Raised."
10 of "Ejection

NOTE
Handles Not

If both ejection handles will not move full

down, pull restraint emergency release
handle to free pilot of all restraints. Then
disconnect parachute "D" ring retainer
strap and both parachute risers and
remove pilot from seat.
WARNING
Do not stand above seat when restraint
emergency release handle is pulled,
because the headrest is ejected straight
X-15-1-73-4C up with explosive force.

Figure 3-4 (Sheet 3 of 3)

3-12
 T. O. 1X-15-1

1. SEATPOSITION.
1 EJECTION

Move feet back and lock in foot restraints. Pull green ball for pilot's emergency

~
~
oxygen supply. (The emergency supply is automatically actuated- when the handles
are rotated, if time does not permit manual actuation.) Grip both seat ejection
handles and squeeze either latch to release handles.
WARNING
Feet must be pulled full back into footrests to
prevent injury by contact with the instrument
panel or by wind blast.

2. PREPARING TO FIRE.
Move head back firmly against headrest and pull
seat ejection handles up and in toward chest until
locked. The canopy will fire in the last 15 degrees of
movement. After the canopy fires, the seat is auto-
matically ejected.
.
3. SEATFIRES.
After the seat catapult fires, and just before the
seat leaves the ejection rails, a small rocket is auto-
matically fired to increase the seat trajectory and aid in
stability. Also at this time, the stabilizing boom and
stabilizing fins are extended, and the restraint system
aneroid is armed.

~
~\\ ~

~~~,
- ,//.I/~
~

_ - ~ of" ' (J
~~/jI)
~~/
~ . 4. SEPARATIONFROMSEAT.
Seat separation below 15,000 feet or after freefall
down to 15,000 feet occurs in 3 seconds in the following
sequence:
Releasing of the integrated restraint harness
from the seat; unlocking of the seat ejection
handles and foot restraint; and finally firing
the headrest, which releases the shoulder har-
ness, and deploys the pilot chute, which in tum
deploys the main parachute to pull the pilot free
of the seat. - Some airplanes X-15-1-73-2D

Figure 3-5
3-13

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1

BALLISTIC CONTROL SYSTEM FAILURE. REACTION AUGMENTATION SYSTEM (RAS).

The reaction augmentation system provides pitch, roll,

Failure of one system does not affect the operation of and yaw rate damping through the use of the No. 1
the other system, which is adequate to maintain atti- ballistic control system. If any axis of the RAS fails,
tude control. However, control will be at a reduced attitude control is still maintained by the pilot. How-
rate. ever, precise attitude control may deteriorate.

3-14

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1

SECTION IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE PAGE
Air Conditioning and Pressurization Lighting Equipment .... .. ....... . 4-9
System ................... ...... 4-1
Pilot's Oxygen System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Communication and Associated
Electronic Equipment ..... ......... 4-7 MiscellaneousEquipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

AIR CONDITIONINGAND PRESSURIZATIONSYSTEM. supply can be used to increase cooling by turn-

ing off the ram-air system and turning on the
The air conditioning and pressurization system utilizes blowers.
either liquid nitrogen or ram air as a cooling and pres-
surization medium. The liquid nitrogen is supplied The ram-air system should not be used above 35,000
from the X-15 storage tank during free flight and from feet or at speeds in excess of Mach 1. 0, because of
either the X-15 storage tank or the carrier airplane possible damage to the ram-air scoop and ducting due
pylon tank during captive flight. The X-15 tank can to high or excessive air loads and temperatures too high
supply the entire air conditioning and pressurization for proper electronic equipment cooling. During free
system and when used will supply liquid nitrogen for flight, ram air may be used as an emergency measure if
pressurizing and cooling the cockpit and No. 2 electronic the X-15 liquid nitrogen system fails or during descent
equipment compartment, and for cooling for the ac gen- when the liquid nitrogen system has been depleted, but
erators, APU upper turbine bearings, stable platform, the limitation of Mach 1. 0 must be observed. The cock-
and baU nose. It will also supply nitrogen gas for in- pit and the electronic equipment compartment are pres-
flating the canopy and equipment compartment seals, surized to 3.5 psi by the use of nitrogen after it has been
purging the hydraulic reservoirs, between-panel purging converted from liquid to gaseous state. The X-15 liquid
of L.'J.ewindshield, and ventilation of the pilot's pressure nitrogen is stored under pressure and is converted as
suit. The nitrogen gas used for between-panel wind- required for cockpit and equipment cooling and pres-
shield purging and pilot's pressure suit ventilation is surization. A cockpit pressure regulator automatically
supplied through a common liquid nitrogen supply line maintains a pressure of 3.5 psi at 35,000 feet and above.
which contains a heat exchanger and electric heater for From the ground up to 35,000 feet, the cockpit pressure
converting the liquid to gaseous nitrogen. The carrier remains the same as the outside pressure. If the cock-
airplane pylon tank and associated controls make up the pit pressure regulator does not operate properly, a
augmented cooling system. The primary function of this cockpit safety valve will not allow the cockpit pressure
system is to augment the cooling to the stable platform to exceed 3.8 psi; also, during a rapid descent, the
during ground operation and taxiing, when the blowers safety valve will prevent a pressure differential greater
are circulating compartment air, and when ram air is than 0.5 psi. Pilot comfort is provided by the MC-2
used during climb to cruise altitude. The augmented pressure suit, which maintains a regulated pressure
system is also used for between-panel windshield purg- of 3.6 psi over the entire body. Pressure to the suit is
ing and pilot's pressure suit ventilation during these provided by the air conditioning and pressurization
times and can be used for cooling the No. 2 electronic system. Temperature control of the nitrogen flow
equipment compartment and ball nose. through the suit is maintained by an electric heater
which is adjusted to a pilot-selected range. The tem-
The ram-air system is limited in its operation to cooling perature of the gas supplied to the pressure suit is from
the cockpit and the electronic equipment compartment. 55°F (:!:5°F)to 90°F (:!:5°F). The X-15 air conditioning
The ram-air system, with augmented cooling, is used and pressurization system may be considered automatic
during climb and cruise. The X-15 liquid nitrogen sys- to the extent that once it has been started and manually
tem is turned on at the beginning of cruise-climb to regulated for desired flow and temperature, it will con-
launch altitude. tinue to operate without further adjustment.

NOTE COCKPIT AIR CONDITIONING AND PRESSURIZATION.

If the ram-air system does not provide adequate Cockpit air conditioning and pressurization is by either
cockpit cooling during captive flight at altitude, of two systems: the ram-air system, or the liquid
the augmented cooling system liquid nitrogen nitrogen air conditioning and pressurization system of
4-1

I
 Section IV T. O. lX-15-1

AIR CONDITIONING AND PRESSURIZATION

d
8
CABIN
SOURCEHELIUM
PRESSURE
GAGE

HELIUM
FILLER

~.,.,.,.L (I PR~P~~A~~G:~issURlZATION
HEliUM TANK
FILTER

CABIN SOURCE HELIUM

SHUTOFF VALVE SWITCH

. .
PRESSURE GROUND
COOLING PRESSURE
LEVER CHECK FmlNG

'@-
CANOPY SEAL
TO HYDRAUliC
PRESSURE
RESERVOIR
REGULATOR

~
TO CANOPY AND NO.2
EQUIPMENT COMPARTMENT
PRESSURESEALS

N.O. N.O.
II
.........

.
TO
BALLNOSE

~J
r-~ ,
I -1::::I::J
WINDSHIELD I
I PURGE HANDLE
I
I
I
I
I
c:
I
I
u I
I
PRESSURE PRESSURE --- --; ,
·
REGULATOR

Pressure switch closes when cockpit

REGULATOR WINDSHIELD
ANTIFOGGING
HANDLE
~
TO WINDSHIELD
. ~
TO WINDSHIELD PURGE
~
TO PILOT'S
ANT/fOGGING (BETWEEN INNER AND PRESSURE SUIT
pressure drops to 3.1 psi. MANifOLD OUTER PANELS) X-15-1-53-2G

Figure 4-1

4-2

I
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section IV

HELIUM
........ LIQUIDNITROGEN

. SYSTEM,
TO
NO. 3 EQUIPMENT
-
-
GASEOUS NITROGEN
RAM
AIR
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
COMPARTMENT ---- MECHANICALLINKAGE

--1
N.O.
SOLENOID-OPERATED
NORMALLYOPEN
SHUTOFFVALVE

NO.2 BLOWER
SWITCH
GROUND
PRESSURE
SOURCE
FITTING
-
N.C. NORMALLYCLOSED
CHECK VALVE

FLOWRESTRICTOR

NO.2 EQUIPMENT COMPARTMENT COCKPIT

(Pressurized) (Pressurized)
CABIN
PRESSURE TO ELECTRONIC

..
REGULATOR
EQUIPMENT

-
"
CABIN
TO
PRESSURE

SAFETY (DUMP)
VALVE
TO RAM.AIR
LEVER

.0
FROM CARRIER
AIRPLANE PYlON

FROM CARRIER AIRPLANE

NO. , BLOWER
(LAUNCH OPERATOR)
SWITCH

X-15-1-53-1F

4-3
 Section IV T. O. 1X-15-1

the X...15 Airplane. The ram-air system, although it pressurization of the cockpit and the electronic equip-
does not pressurize the cockpit and the No.2 electronic ment compartments. The lever has two positions, ON
equipment compartment, will furnish adequate cooling and OFF. When the lever is moved forward to ON, the
for these areas. Approximately 10 percent of the ram- system manual shutoff valve opens, allowing liquid
air flow may be diverted to the cockpit by a cockpit nitrogen to flow throughout the entire system. With the
control, with the remaining 90 percent being routed lever at OFF, the system is inoperative. In free flight,
through a plenum, from which it is ducted to the No.2 the nitrogen gas for the pilot's pressure suit system is
electronic equipment compartment. Flapper-type also controlled by the pressure-cooling lever. (Refer
shutoff valves prevent the ram-air flow from entering to "Pilot's Pressure Suit System" in this section.)
the mixing chambers and blower ducts of the cooling
system. The ram-air system must not be operated at
the same time as the X-15 nitrogen system. The X-15 Alternate Cabin Pressurization Switch.
liquid nitrogen system actually cools and pressurizes
simultaneously. A vacuum-type contained in the No.3
equipment compartment stores 176 pounds, or 26.5
gallons, of liquid nitrogen, which is depleted at a normal This push-pull, circuit-breaker type switch (5, figure
usage rate of approximately 5 pounds per minute. A 1-4), on the right console, controls primary dc bus
pressure relief valve mounted in the nitrogen line be- power to the alternate cabin pressurization system pres-
tween the top of the container and the nitrogen vent sure switch and to the system shutoff valve. The switch,
and build-up valve is preset to vent at 80 (+0, -4) psi. labeled "ALT CABIN PRESS," is closed when pushed in.
Helium gas for pressurizing the X-15 liquid nitrogen Pulling the switch out opens the alternate cabin pres-
tank is stored in a spherical tank in the No.3 equipment surization system arming circuit.
compartment. Helium pressure is reduced from ap-
proximately 4200 psi at the tank to approximately 67 psi
through a differential-pressure regulator. The helium Blower Switches.
gas is then routed into the top of the liquid nitrogen
tank. The liquid nitrogen is forced out of the bottom
of the tank and on through the system to the injectors. There are two blower toggle switches (8, figure 1-4) on
The liquid nitrogen is forced under pressure through the circuit-breaker panel on the right console. The
the injectors into a stream of returning gaseous nitro- three-position switches, powered by the primary dc bus,
are labeled "BLOWERS." When the switches are at
gen within the mixing chambers, where it is mixed and
OFF, the blowers are off, the liquid nitrogen shutoff
recirculated. The temperature of the air conditioning
system is automatically controlled by the two thermo- valves to the injectors are de-energized open, and the
stats that regulate the flow of nitrogen vapor from the pressure control valves are de-energized closed. With
liquid nitrogen injectors. The thermostats and the liquid the switches at BLOWER & LN2, electrical power is
applied to the blowers, the liquid nitrogen shutoff valves
nitrogen injectors are part of the system mixing cham-
bers that connect with the plenum from which the to the injectors are de-energized open, and the pressure
control valves are energized open. With the switches at
regulated cooling gas is ducted to the electronic equip-
BLOWER ONLY, electrical power is applied to the
ment requiring direct cooling. The air conditioning and
blowers, the liquid nitrogen shutoff valves to the injec-
pressurization system includes an alternate system
which automatically pressurizes the cockpit if component tors are energized closed, and the pressure control
malfunctions result in loss of pressure. The alternate valves are de-energized closed. Both the No. 1 and
system includes a pressure switch, a solenoid-operated No.2 blowers are powered by the No.1 primary ac bus.
shutoff valve, two heat exchangers, and associated The No.1 and 2 solenoid shutoff valves are powered by
plumbing. When the alternate system is armed and the the primary dc bus. The blowers are protected by
pressure switch contacts close (cockpit altitude rises circuit breakers on the circuit-breaker panel.
above approximately 37,000 feet), the solenoid-operated
shutoff valve is energized open. This allows liquid
nitrogen to flow to a heat exchanger in each APU com- Cabin Source Helium Shutoff Valve Switch.
partment. The nitrogen is converted to a gaseous state
and expelled into the cockpit. The pressure switch
Helium tank pressure to the liquid nitrogen tank is con-
contacts open when cockpit altitude drops below ap-
trolled by a two-position toggle switch on the circuit-
proximately 36,000 feet. The augmented cooling system
liquid nitrogen supply in the carrier airplane pylon is breaker panel (6, figure 1-4) on the right console. The
contained within a 6-cubic-foot tank. Approximately 292 switch is labeled "CABIN SOURCE He S/O VALVE."
With the switch at CLOSED, primary dc bus power
pounds of liquid nitrogen is pressurized to approximately closes a solenoid-operated shutoff valve in the helium
63 psi by nitrogen pressure in the carrier airplane
line upstream of the helium tank. With the switch at
gaseous nitrogen system. Flow of the augmented
OPEN (forward), the solenoid-operated shutoff valve in
cooling system liquid nitrogen to the X-15 is controlled
the helium line is de-energized to the open position.
from the launch operator's panel in the carrier airplane.
The valve is used to isolate the air conditioning and
AIR CONDITIONING AND PRESSURIZATION SYSTEM pressurization system helium supply from the main
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS. propellant helium source as long as the former remains
at or above 3000 psi. If the air conditioning and pres-
Pressure-Cooling Lever. surization system helium supply drops below 3000 psi
The pressure-cooling lever (7, figure 1-4), on the before launch, the valve should be opened to top off the
right console, controls both the air conditioning and helium supply.

4-4

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section IV

Windshield Antifogging Handle. powered from the primary dc bus through the APU
switches. With the switch at NORMAL, primary dc bus
power is cut off from the shutoff valves which control
This unlabeled handle is used to position a valve which
controls flow of gaseous nitrogen to the inner surface of liquid nitrogen flow to the APU's and ac generators, and
the windshield inner panels. It is on the right side of the valves are de-energized open. With the switch at
the canopy, just below the windshield panel and aft of the SINGLE, each valve will be energized closed if its
windshield purge handle. Flow of the nitrogen is shut off respective APU switch is OFF, or de-energized open if
with the handle rotated down. Rotating the handle coun- its respective APU switch is ON. During single-APU
terclockwise 90 degrees (to horizontal) opens the valve operation, if excessive upper bearing temperatures are
and permits flow of X-15 or augmented system gaseous encountered on the operating APU, the switch should be
moved to NORMAL. This will increase the volume of
nitrogen to the windshield antifogging manifold.
liquid nitrogen flow through individual flow restrictors,
Windshield Purge Handle. thus providing more efficient cooling of the bearing. If
the upper bearing temperature of the nonoperating APU
This unlabeled handle is used to position a valve which is excessively low, the switch should be moved to
controls purging flow of gaseous nitrogen between the SINGLE, to shut off cooling nitrogen flow to the non-
windshield panels. The handle is on the right side of operating APU.
the canopy, just below the windshield panel and forward
of the windshield antifogging handle. Flow of the purg-
ing gas is shut off with the handle rotated down. Coun-
terclockwise rotation of the handle 90 degrees (to
horizontal) opens the valve and permits purging gas flow.
If moving the switch to SINGLE results in exces-
Ram-air Lever. sive upper bearing temperatures on the operating
APU, the switch must be returned to NOR-
A ram-air lever (12, figure 1-5), on the left side of the MAL, and if necessary, the nonoperating APU
center pedestal, controls the operation of the ram-air restarted.
system. It is labeled "RAM Am" and has OPEN and
CLOSED positions. The lever is mechanically linked to Cabin Helium Source Pressure Gage.
the ram-air scoop and the ram-air shutoff valve, and
electrically connected to the cockpit safety (dump) valve. A cabin helium source pressure gage (35, figure 1-2),
When the lever is moved to OPEN, the ram-air shutoff on the lower right of the instrument panel, indicates the
valve and the ram-air scoop are opened to allow ram air helium pressure available to operate the air conditioning
to enter the system. At the same time, the cockpit and pressurization system. The gage is calibrated from
safety valve is opened, allowing the cockpit and elec- o to 5000 psi. The gage and pressure transmitters
tronic equipment compartment pressure to be depleted are powered by the 26-volt ac bus and protected by a
and the ram air to be circulated through these areas. circuit breaker on the circuit-breaker panel on the
When the lever is at CLOSED, the ram-air shutoff right console.
valve and the ram-air scoop close. The cockpit safety
valve is closed when the ram-air lever is at CLOSED. Mixing Chamber Temperature Gage.
The ram-air scoop is on the lower centerline of the
fuselage, just aft of the nose wheel well. The dual-pointer mixing chamber temperature gage
Cockpit Ram-air Knob. (41, figure 1-2) shows the temperature in the No. 1 and
No.2 mixing chambers. Power is supplied by the No.1
Ram air to the cockpit is controlled by the cockpit ram- primary ac bus to amplifiers within the gage unit, acti-
air knob (6, figure 1-5), on the center pedestal. The vating the indicator needles. The gage shows tempera-
knob is mechanically linked to a shutoff valve that is ture in degrees centigrade and is calibrated in lOoC
ducted off the main ram-air line. When the knob is increments from _80°C to +80°C.
pulled straight out, the two-way shutoff valve opens to
allow ram air (if the ram-air lever is at OPEN) to enter Cabin Pressure Altimeter.
the cockpit. Pushing the knob in closes off the ram air
to the cockpit. The pressure altitude of the cockpit is shown by a cabin
pressure altimeter (33, figure 1-2) on the lower right
corner of the instrument panel. The indicator is vented
only to pressure within the cockpit, and operates on the
aneroid principle.

The cockpit ram-air knob should be pushed in OPERATION OF Am CONDITIONING AND

when the X-15 liquid nitrogen system is in use PRESSURlZA TION SYSTEM.
(blower switches at BLOWER & LN2); other-
wise, recirculating cooling gas will be bled from Operation of Augmented Cooling System.
the ducting system.
To operate the augmented cooling system, proceed as
APU Cooling Switch. follows:

This two-position switch (3, figure 1-4), at the aft end of

1. Cabin source helium shutoff valve switch - OFF.
the right-hand console, is labeled "APU COOL." It is 2. APU cooling switch - SINGLE.
4-5,

I
Section IV T.O. lX-15-1

3. Pressure cooling lever - OFF. Operation of X-15 Liquid Nitrogen System.

To operate the X-15 Airplane liquid nitrogen system at

4. Windshield antifogging handle - OFF. prelaunch, proceed as follows:
1. Ram-air lever - CLOSED.
5. X-15 LN2 supply switch - Check OPEN.
2. Cabin source helium shutoff valve switch -
CLOSED.
Check with launch operator that switch is at OPEN.
6. Vent suit heater switch - mGH or LOW. 3. APU cooling switch - NORMAL.
-
4. Alternate cabin pressurization switch ON (down).
7. Pressure suit ventilation knob - As required.
5. Pressure-coo:Jing lever - ON.
Knob should be open a minimum of one turn. 6. Vent suit heater switch - mGH or LOW.
8. Stable platform LN2 cooling control switch
OFF.
- Check 7. Pressure suit ventilation knob - As required.

8. X-15 LN2 supply switch - Check CLOSE.

Check with launch operator that switch is OFF.
Checkwithlaunchoperator that switchis at CLOSE.
9. Ram-air lever - CLOSED.
9. Blower switches - BLOWER&LN2.
10. Blower switches - BLOWERS & LN2.
NOTE
11. Mixing chamber temperature gage - CHECK.
The windshield heater switches should be moved
When both chamber temperatures stabilize at _40°C to ON (up) when fogging or frosting of the glass
(:l:5°C), proceed to step 12. is observed and should remain ON (up) until
the airplane is landed.
12. Stable platform switch - EXT.
Emergency Operation of Ram-air System (After Launch).
Move stable platform switch to EXT and wait 10 min-
utes before proceeding to step 13. To operate the ram-air system, proceed as follows:
13. Blower switches - BLOWER ONLY. 1. Cabin source helium shutoff valve switch - OPEN.
14.
Check ON.
Stable platform LN2 cooling control switch - 2. Pressure-cooling lever - ON.
3. No. 1 and 2 blower switches - OFF.
Check with launch operator that switch is ON.
4. Ram-air lever - OPEN.
Operation of Ram-air and Augmented Cooling System
(Captive Flight). NOTE

To operate the ram-air and augmented cooling systems, Do not operate the blowers and the ram-air
proceed as follows: system simultaneously.
1. Cabin source helium shutoff valve switch - OFF.
2. APU cooling switch - SINGLE. I WARNING'

3. Pressure cooling lever - OFF. . Do not open the ram-air scoop when the air-
plane is above 35,000 feet or the airspeed is
4. X-15 LN2 supply switch - Check OPEN. in excess of Mach 1. 0; otherwise, the ram-
air scoop will be subjected to excessive air
Check with launch operator that switch is OPEN. loads and be damaged.

5. Stable platform
Check OFF.
LN2 cooling control switch - . If the ram-air lever is opened, cockpitpressure
will be dumpedthroughthe cockpit safety valve..
Check with launch operator that switch is OFF. GENERATOR AND APU COOlJNG AND
PRESSURIZATION.
6. Blowerswitches- OFF.
The two ac generators and APU upper turbine bearing
7. Ram-air lever - OPEN. areas are cooled and pressurized by gaseous nitrogen
4-6
 T.O. lX-15-1 Section IV

COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT
1

Figure 4-2

after it has been converted from a liquid state. When supply line discharges a constant flow of heated nitrogen
the pressure-cooling lever and cockpit helium switch are gas between the panels to dissipate moisture which may
ON, X-15 system liquid nitrogen flows to two normally have collected in this area. Each heated inner panel is
open shutoff valves, one for each generator cooling controlled by a toggle switch.
shroud and each APU upper turbine bearing area. These
val ves are electrically connected to the APU switches so Windshield Heater Switches.
that when either APU switch is turned OFF while the
APU cooling switch is at SINGLE, its respective valve Two adjacent, two-position toggle switches, labeled
closes. This shuts off the liquid nitrogen supply to the "WINDSHIELD HEATER," control primary dc power to
affected units regardless of the position of the pressure- the windshield heater elements, one for each side panel.
cooling lever. After passing through the shutoff valves, The switches are located in the lower right corner of the
the liquid nitrogen is routed to pressure restrictors, instrument panel right wing. (See 29, figure 1-2.)
where it is changed to a gaseous state before moving on When the switches are moved ON (up), primary dc bus
to the generators and turbines. The gaseous nitrogen, power is applied to the heater elements.
after it has absorbed heat from the generator and APU
COMMUNICATION AND ASSOCIATED ELECTRONIC
upper turbine bearing area, is exhausted into the APU
compartment. EQUIPMENT.

WINDSHIELD HEATING SYSTEM. UHF COMMUNICATION AND ADF SYSTEM.

Windshield frost or fogging is eliminated by a com- The UHF communication and ADF system enables the
bination of heated nitrogen gas between the two glass pilot to transmit and receive voice transmissions and
panels and a heater element within each inner glass to obtain visual course reference on the course indi-
panel. A 1/4-inch line from the pilot's pressure suit cator. The system has two modes of operation, normal
4-7
 Section IV T. O. lX-15-1

and alternate. During normal operation, the UHF trans- operates from the UHF antenna for reception of UHF
mitter and main receiver ("MAIN")are used with a UHF voice transmission. The functions of the main and
antenna for communication, and the auxiliary receiver auxiliary receivers are then reversed, provided the
("AUX") is used with the ADF antenna for automatic main and auxiliary channel selector knobs are reset
direction finding to operate the course indicator. The to the channel that corresponds to the frequency of the
alternate mode is used in case one of the receivers desired ADF and UHF signals. In other words, when
fails and it is desired to regain the function of the in- the function of the two receivers is changed, the channel
operative receiver. During this mode of operation, the selectors must be changed to provide the correct oper-
UHF transmitter is connected to the UHF antenna ating frequency for the individual receivers.
through an automatic lockout feature. The main re-
ceiver is connected to the ADF antenna for ADF oper- NOTE
ation. The auxiliary receiver is connected to the UHF
antenna for communication reception. The transmitter The main channel selector control sets up the
and main receiver cover the frequency range of 255.0 frequency for the transmitter as well as the
to 399. 9 megacycles for 1750 channels, spaced at receiver. When the main receiver is used for
tOO-kilocycle increments. automatic direction finding, the transmitter, if
operated, transmits on the ADF frequency, which
NOTE is not recommended procedure. For proper
transmission, the main channel must be set to
Frequencies below 265 megacycles should not be the proper communication channel before trans-
used, because they are reserved for telemetering mitting and then back to the ADF channel for
channels and the system will not accommodate reception of ADF signals. Using the main re-
this frequency range. ceiverfor automatic direction finding is an
emergency procedure only.
The guard receiver, an integral part of the system,
operates off the UHF antenna and guards the preset Volume Controls. There are two volume controls on the
frequency of 279.9 megacycles. The guard receiver radio control panel, marked "MAIN" and "AUX." When
has two functions: it operates the automatic antenna either of these rotary volume controls is rotated in the
selector, and it also provides for reception of voice direction indicated by the arrow (clockwise), the volume
transmission of the guard frequency (normal guard of the respective equipment to the pilot's headset is in-
operation). The auxiliary receiver has 20 channels in creased. Counterclockwise turning of either volume will
the frequency range of 265.0 to 284.9 megacycles, diminish the volume of the equipment being adjusted.
with one channel per megacycle increments. The
system has a dual power supply, which gives the equip- Channel Selector Knobs. There are two rotary selector
ment continuous operation if one of the power sources knobs on the radio control panel used in selecting the
fails. The main power source for the system is the desired channel frequency of the equipment in use. The
three-phase ac and the 28-volt dc systems, and pro- UHF transmitter and main receiver channel selector
tection is afforded by circuit breakers. Controls for control provides selection of 20 preset channels within
operation of the UHF communication and ADF system the frequency range of the UHF receiver-transmitter.
are on the radio control panel (figure 4-2), on the left A similar channel control selector enables the pilot to
console. select one of 20 channels on the auxiliary receiver.
UHF Communication and ADF Controls. Channel Indicators. There is a channel indicator window
to the right of each channel selector knob. The upper
F\mction Selector Switch. A rotary-knob type selector
window, marked "MAIN," shows the channel number that
switch, on the radio control panel, controls the mode of has been selected for the UHF transmitter and main
operation, either normal or alternate, and also selects receiver. A similar window, marked "AUX, " to the
the antenna of best reception. The switch is marked
"MAIN REC" and "AUX REC" and has a two-headed right of the auxiliary receiver channel selector knob,
displays the channel selected for the auxiliary receiver.
arrow across the full diameter of the rotary knob. On
the outer perimeter of the knob is the position marking
Antenna Selector Switch. A two-position switch (13,
denoting the function of the system. OFF, T/R, and figure 1-3), on the left console in the cockpit, affords
ADF are the positions for the main receiver; REC, ADF, the pilot manual selection of either the upper or the
and OFF are the positions for the auxiliary receiver. lower antenna for both the UHF and the radar beacon D
The switch is designed so that when the arrow indicates system. The switch is marked "AUTO" and "LOWER."
OFF on the main system, the opposite arrow is indicat- With the switch at AUTO, the antenna operating withthe
ing OFF on the auxiliary system. With the switch in the greatest signal strength will be in use. When the pilot
T/R position on the UHF receiver-transmitter, the aux- selects the LOWERposition, the lower antenna will be in
iliary receiver is at the ADF position. This is the operation. The switch is powered by the primary dc
normal mode of operation, and the main receiver is bus.
connected to the UHF antenna for communication. At
the same time, the auxiliary receiver is connected to Azimuth Indicator. The azimuth indicator (7, figure
the ADF antenna for automatic direction finding. When 1-2), on the instrument panel, consists of a movable
the main receiver is at ADF position, the auxiliary compass card, an index marker, a pointer, and an ad-
receiver is at REC. In this alternate mode of operation, justment knob that is used to rotate the compass card to
the main receiver is connected to the ADF antenna for the desired heading. The needle provides visual indica-
automatic direction finding, and the auxiliary receiver tion of the ADF station direction from the airplane
4-8

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section IV

heading, for homing operation. The indicator also has a automatically connected to the radar beacon system
synchronizer knob and an annunciator used with the through the UHF antenna selector switch when it is
inertial flight reference system. [Refer to "Inertial positioned to AUTO. The radar beacon system is
All-attitude Flight Data System (Gyro-stabilized Plat- powered by the No. 1 primary ac bus through a switch
form)" in Section I.] in the cockpit.
Radar Beacon Switch.
Operation of UHF Communication and ADF System.
The radar beacon switch (11, figure 1-5), on the center
Normal Operation. The normal operating procedure pedestal, controls No. 1 primary bus power to the
is as follows: radar beacon system. The {'witch has two maintained
positions, ON and OFF.
1. Function selector switch - TIR (main system). INTERCOMMUNICATION SYSTEM.
2. Main channel selector knob - Select desired
channel. The X-15 pilot's microphone button and headset can be
connected to the carrier airplane intercommunication
3. Auxiliary channel selector knob - Select desired system through a switch in the cockpit. Depending on
channel. carrier airplane intercommunication system switch
settings, the X-15 pilot can communicate directly with
4. UHF antenna selector switch - AUTO or LOWER the carrier airplane or transmit and receive by means of
as desired. the carrier airplane command radio.
5. "MAIN' and "AUX" colume controls - As desired. Intercommunication Switch.

Alternate Operation. If the main receiver fails, the The two-position intercommunication switch (5, figure
auxiliary receiver is used. To use the auxiliary re- 1-3), on the left console and labeled "INTERCOM, "
ceiver, proceed as follows: controls the function of the X-15 pilot's microphone
buttons and headset. With the switch at ON, the X-15
-
1. Function selector switch ADF (main receiver). pilot can communicate with the carrier airplane through
The auxiliary receiver selection will be at REC. the carrier airplane intercommunication system or
transmit and receive command radio signals through the
2. Main channel selector knob - Select desired carrier airplane command radio, depending on the posi-
channel. tion of the carrier airplane intercommunication system
function selected. With the switch at OFF, the X-15
3. Auxiliary channel selector knob
channel.
- Select desired pilot's microphone buttons and headset are connected to
the X-15 command radio.
4. "MAIN" and "AUX" volume controls - As desired. NOTE

NOTE If the intercommunication switch is at ON at

time of launch, the pilot will not be able to
If the UHF transmitter is operated while the main use the command radio. This will be readily
receiver is using the ADF antenna, a temporary noticeable by the lack of static background
lockout feature transfers the UHF transmitter to noises or side-tone signals in the headset.
the UHF antenna.
LIGHTING EQUIPMENT.
RADAR BEACON SYSTEM (AN/DPN-41 OR
ANI APN-65). COCKPIT LIGHTING SYSTEM.

Radar beacon system AN/DPN-41 or ANI APN-65, The cockpit is lighted by two floodlights attached to the
whichever is installed, automatically receives and canopy and located so that the light is directed forward
returns radio-frequency signals from a ground tracking and down, covering the entire cockpit controls and gages.
station to enable ground radar crews to track the flight
of the X-15 Airplane. The receiver and the transmitter
These adjustable lights are shielded to eliminate direct
glare to the pilot. A switch on the right instrument con-
o
of the radio beacon are tuned independently to a pre- sole controls the lighting system. The lighting system
selected frequency within the 2700- to 2900-megacyc1e is powered by the primary dc bus.
range. The radar beacon is designed to operate de-
pendably from a minimum range of 1200 yards to a NOTE
line-of-sight range of at least 150 miles when operated
in conjunction with a ground radar set SCR-784, or Loss of the canopy in flight will cause loss of
equivalent. There are two antennas for the radar the cockpit lighting system.
beacon: one on the upper fuselage, just aft of the
canopy, and the other on the bottom fuselage, just Cockpit Lighting Switch.
forward of the UHF antenna. The radar beacon receiver
and transmitter use the same antenna. The antenna A two-IX>sition switch (32, figure 1-2), on the instrument
that receives a usable signal from the ground station is panel right wing, controls the cockpit lighting system.

4-9

I
 Section IV T. O. 1X-15-1

The switch has ON and OFF positions and is labeled and "X-15, " depend on the phase of flight as to which
"COCKPIT LIGHTS." The switch is powered by the system is selected. The control head is a round, tubular
primary dc bus. aluminum section with the oxygen pressure gage mounted
in the center. The selector is positioned by turning it
PILOT'S OXYGEN SYSTEM. from the middle OFF position, either right or left, to
select the desired system. The gage range is from 200
The pilot's oxygen system is a high-pressure (3000 psi), to 3000 psi. Permanent markings are on the range
gaseous-type system, completely contained within the scale. There is a red radial at 200 and a green arc
ejection seat and pilot's back pan. Two 96-cubic-inch, from 200 to 3000. If the breathing oxygen is depleted
lightweight cylinders are mounted on the bottom of the to the point where the gage pointer is at 200, the green
seat. The charging valve for both cylinders is about ball on the pilot's pressure suit must be pulled to
6 inches above the seat bucket on the back rest. This actuate the emergency breathing oxygen supply.
system will supply 100 percent oxygen to the helmet for
approximately 45 minutes at a pressure of 1-1/2 inches PILOT'S OXYGEN-LOW CAUTION LIGHT.
of water above the pilot's suit pressure, which varies
with altitude. A reducer valve, incorporated in the The pilot's oxygen-low caution light is on the instrument
high-pressure line, reduces the cylinder pressure from panel, directly above the subsonic airspeed indicator.
3000 psi to 70 to 90 psi at the pilot's personal-lead The placard-type amber light is powered by the primary
quick-disconnect. The oxygen then flows into the back dc bus and when illuminated reads "PILOTS 02 LOW."
pan through a regulator and into the face mask. The It comes on when breathing oxygen pressure downstream
system includes a warning system to indicate when of the reducer valve drops to about 60 psi. When the
breathing oxygen pressure is approaching the minimum light comes on, the pilot is alerted to the possibility of
for which the pressure suit is designed to permit normal encountering oxygen supply pressure sufficiently low to
breathing. No dilution is required in this system. ultimately result in breathing difficulty.
Breathing oxygen is supplied by the carrier airplane
from take-off until just before launch, at which time NORMAL OPERATION OF PILOT'S OXYGEN SYSTEM.
the pilot selects the X-15 Airplane oxygen supply. The
oxygen supply is also utilized to pressurize the pilot's For operation of the oxygen system, proceed as follows:
pressure suit in case the nitrogen ventilation and pres-
surization supply should fail. 1. Upon entry into cockpit, move oxygen system
selector to B-52.

2. Before launch, move oxygen system selector to

I WARNING ~ X-15.

The oxygen supply to the pressure suit helmet EMERGENCYOPERATIONOF PILOT'S OXYGEN
must be on and the helmet visor must be down SYSTEM.
before the cockpit is pressurized with nitrogen.
If the pilot's oxygen-low caution light comes on after the
If ejection is necessary, the complete oxygen system is X-15 oxygen system has been selected, be prepared to
retained with the seat. Immediately before ejection, the actuate the emergency oxygen supply as soon as you are
green ball on the upper right side (chest area) of the aware of breathing difficulty. The time between illumi-
pressure suit should be pulled to activate the em6J:"gency nation of the light and when breathing difficulty is first
oxygen system and maintain suit pressurization after encountered is dependent on several factors, including
seIW'ation from the seat. Whenthe green ball is pulled, breathing rate, pilot size, and cabin pressure altitude.
the oxygen in the back pan flows through a pressure re-
ducer, on through an oxygen regulator and a pressure MISCELLANEOUSEQIDPMENT.
suit regulator, to the pressure suit and helmet. The
emergency oxygen supply, contained in the back pan, PILOT'S PRESSURE SUIT SYSTEM.
has a capacity of about 100 cubic inches at a cylinder
pressure of 1800 psi and for a duration of about 20 The pilot's full-pressure suit is ventilated and pres-
minutes. During the time interval between seat separa- surized by either the X-15 or the augmented cooling
tion from the airplane and pilot seIW'ation from the seat, system liquid nitrogen supply. The liquid nitrogen
the breathing oxygen is drawn from the normal system flows through a heat exchanger and flow restrictor,
oxygen bottles attached to the seat. This is made pos- where it is converted to gaseous nitrogen, then through
sible by a valve in the emergency system, which is kept a check valve, an electrical heater, and then to the vent
dosed by a pressure differential until the pilot separates suit flow control valve. From the vent suit flow control
from the seat. valve, the gaseous nitrogen is routed through a flexible
disconnect hose and coupling to the pressure suit. After
PILOT'S OXYGEN SYSTEM SELECTOR AND launch, ventilation of the pressure suit is maintained by
PRESSURE GAGE. the nitrogen system of the X-15 Airplane. Suit pres-
sure is maintained at 1/10 psi above cockpit pressure
A three-position oxygen system selector, mounted on at all altitudes above 35, 000 feet. If cockpit pressure
the forward end of the left side panel of the seat (figure should fail, the nitrogen supply will pressurize the suit
1-14), allows pilot selection of two separate oxygen to maintain the 35, OOO-footenvironment. The same
systems. The three positions, labeled "B-52, " "OFF, " routing lines and controls are used whether the nitrogen

4-10

I
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section IV

comes from the carrier airplane or the X-15. The is heated to a temperature of approximately 75°F to
desired volume of flow can be controlled from the approximately gO°F and is maintained within that range
cockpit. Temperature of the gaseous flow to the pres- by a thermoswitch. With the switch in the LOW position,
sure suit may be controlled from approximately 50of another thermoswitch maintains a temperature of ap-
to gO°F by the vent suit gaseous heater. The heater proximately 55°F to approximately 70°F. With the
is of the electric-tuoo.lar type and is controlled from the switch in the OFF position, the heater is inoperative,
cockpit. Pressure and ventilation to the pressure suit and the temperature of the gaseous nitrogen is that of
are maintained automatically up to the vent suit flow the system temperature. The heater switch is powered
control valve, when the air conditioning and pressuriza- by the primary dc bus. The heater is powered by the
tion system is in operation, by either the carrier air- primary ac busses.
plane or the X-15 nitrogen system. The pressure suit
is equipped with a pressure regulator that is used for
suit ventilation, and an antiblackout pressure regulator
'- that operates from the breathing oxygen supply. In
addition to these provisions, the suit back pan also con-
tains a demand-type oxygen regulator for normal and . When the augmented cooling system liquid
emergency use and a stored supply of oxygen to be used nitrogen supply is being used during captive
during emergency ejection. An integrated parachute flight, the vent suit heater switch should be at
harness and restraint assembly also forms a part of the mGH or LOW, as necessary, to prevent liquid
pressure suit. nitrogen from entering the area between the
inner and outer windshield panels and conse-
Pressure Suit Ventilation Knob. quently obscuring vision.
A knob (2, figure 1-3), on the left console, controls the . Wheneither the augmented cooling system or the
flow of gaseous nitrogen to the pressure suit. This X-15 liquid nitrogen system is supplying gaseous
knob, marked "PRESS. SUIT VENT," has an arrow to nitrogen to the pilot's ventilated suit, the vent
indicate the direction the knob should be turned (counter- suit heater switch should be at mGH or LOW,
clockwise) to increase the volume and flow of the nitro- as necessary, to ensure that the liquid nitrogen
gen to the suit. The knob has direct mechanical linkage is converted to gaseous nitrogen.
to the flow control valve. Nitrogen flow is restricted to
7 cfm by a stop on the knob. This is to prevent excess . When there is no nitrogen flow (augmented
nitrogen flow which could override the capabilities of the cooling and X-15 liquid nitrogen systems turned
vent suit heater in addition to causing suit overpres- off), the heater switch should be turned off to
surization. The 7 cfm provides sufficient ventilating gas prevent damaging the heaters and equipment
flow for normal conditions. Wheninitiating suit ventila- adjacent to the heaters.
tion, the knob should be opened about one turn and then
the vent suit heater switch should be moved to either Face Mask Heater Switch.
mGH or LOW, as required. If additional ventilation is
required, the knob can be opened further. Primary dc bus power for the helmet visor heat elements
is controlled by a four-position switch (4, figure 1-3),
Vent Suit Heater Switch. on the left console. The switch is labeled "FACE MASK
HTR." The face mask heater is energized when the
The vent suit heater switch (3, figure 1-3), on the left switch is moved from OFF. Heat is increased as the
console, is a three-position switch. With the switch in switch is moved from the LO to the MED and m
the mGH position, the gaseous nitrogen to the vent suit positions.

4-11/4-12

I
I
 T. O. 1X-15-1

SECTION V
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE PAGE

Instrument Markings ................. 5-1 Acceleration Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Engine Limitations 5-1 RollLimitations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-7
Captive Flight Limitations 5-1 Yaw (Sideslip) Limitations 5-7

Launch Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-1 Prohibited Maneuvers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-7

Airspeed Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-1 Ballistic Control System Limitations 5-7

Ventral Jettison Limitations .. . . . . . . . . .. 5-6 Landing Limitations 5-7

Speed Brake Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-6 Center-of-Gravity Limitations 5-7

Stability Augmentation System Limitations . .. 5-7 WeightLimitations.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5-7

INSTRUMENT MARKINGS. Horizontal stabilizer neutral in roll and 0 degrees

to -2 degrees (leading edge down) in pitch. The
Careful attention must be given to the instrument setting of -2 degrees should not be used until some
markings (figure 5-1), because the limitations shown familiarity with launch characteristics has been
on these instruments and noted in the captions are not gained at the O-degree setting.
necessarily repeated in the text of this or any other
section. d. Launch should not be made with the ventral jet-
tisoned or not installed, except when the scheduled
ENGINE LIMITATIONS. mission specifically requires it.
All normal engine limitations are shown in figure 5-1 AmSPEED LIMITATIONS.
and are based on the use of oxidizer and fuel specified
in figure 1-16. MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE AIRSPEEDS.

CAPTIVE FLIGHT LIMITATIONS. The maximum allowable Mach number for varying
flight altitudes is shown in figure 5-2. The maximum
Control surfaces may be deflected only individually. q (dynamic pressure) is 2200 psi with modified movable
Full throw of the vertical stabilizer or flaps is permis- vertical stabilizer (Part No. 240-23001-201) and ventral
sible up to 300 knots EAS. The horizontal stabilizer (Part No. 240-23501-101 or 240-23502-201).
may be deflected full throw at 200knots EAS, decreasing
linearly to one-half throw at 300 knots EAS. To avoid
possible buffet on both the X-15 and carrier airplane,
the speed brakes should not be extended beyond 10 I WARNING'
degrees. c::
Because of the exploratory nature of the X-15
LAUNCH LIMITATIONS. research program, limitations for all flights
beyond 3.5 Mach number will be based on
Launch from the carrier airplane should be made under separate mission analysis.
the following conditions:
LANDING GEAR AND WING FLAP LOWERING SPEED.
a. Mach. 75 at 35,000 feet to Mach .82 at 45,000 feet.
b. Carrier airplane in 1 G symmetrical flight. Maximum allowable airspeed for extending the landing
gear and wing flaps, or for flight with the landing gear.
c. X-15 control surfaces as follows: and wing flaps fully extended, is 300 knots IAS. Flight
with the landing gear and flaps extended at speeds above
Vertical stabilizer-ventral neutral. 300 knots IAS may cause structural damage.
5-1

I
Section V T.O. lX-15-1

INSTRUMENT MARKINGS
,....... llfer!1I.." ... ...

PROPELLANT SOURCE
PRESSURE GAGE
NO MARKINGS

PROPELLANT PUMP
INLET PRESSURE GAGE

PROPELLANT TANK _ 30psi Minimum

_- 70psi
PRESSURE GAGE
45-63 psi Normal
Ammonia pressure below 30 psi will require
engine operation at reduced thrust. [Refer to
"Fuel Line Pressure Low (XLR99 Engine)" in
Maximum
_
_
Section III.]
39-63 psi
75psi
Normal
Maximum

PROPELLANT MANIFOLD
PRESSURE GAGE

_ 455-1155 psi Normal

H202 SOURCE AND PURGE H202 TANK AND ENGINE

CONTROL LINEPRESSUREGAGE

___
PRESSURE GAGE
NO MARKINGS 445-psi Minimum
550-615 psi Normal
775 psi Maximum
X-15-1-51-7C

Figure 5-1. (Sheet 1 of 4)

5-2
 I
.
.
.
·
-

; ~ _
_ _ __ _ _ _ _ _:

~
IIL_ _ 878-_
T. O. lX-15-1

_ _ _:__ _ _ _ _ _ = _ __ __ ____ __

ACCELEROMETER
Section V

Refer to "Acceleration Limitations" in

this section for acceleration limitations
at various airplane gross weights and
flight conditions.
.
.
.
.
.
;.
.!

I
;
:

AIRSPEED INDICATOR
300 knots IAS maximum gear-and-flaps-down
limit airspeed

--.- - - - - -- - --- - - ----- -- - -- --- - -- - -- - - - - -. - - - - - ---

-
LIQUID OXYGEN
BEARING TEMPERATURE GAGE
-40°C Minimum If bearing temperature
is below this value,
launch must be aborted.

CHAMBERAND STAGE2
IGNITER PRESSUREGAGE

-_
MAIN CHAMBER (LONG POINTER)

335i-600psi
630 psi
Normal
Maximum
X-15-1-51-8C

Figure 5-1. (Sheet 2 of 4)

5-3

I
Section V T.O. lX-15-1

INSTRUMENT MARKINGS 11..,

.

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM APU HYDROGEN

NO.1 TEMPERATURE APU SOURCE PEROXIDE TANK
GAGE PRESSURE PRESSURE
_ -54°C TO+204°C GAGE GAGE
NORMAL NO MARKINGS _ 510-575
P51 NORMAL

_ 230°C MAXIMUM _ 700 PSIMAXIMUM

MIXING CHAMBER APU BEARING

TEMPERATURE TEMPERATURE
GAGE GAGE
NO MARKINGS NO MARKINGS

X-15-1-51-3C

Figure 5-1. (Sheet 3 of 4)

5-4
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section V

NO.1 GENERATOR NO.2 GENERATOR

VOLTMETER VOLTMETE R

- 200VOLTSNORMAL - 200VOLTS
NORMAL

HYDRAULIC
PRESSURE
GAGE

-
- 2900-3400 PSINORMAL
3500 PSI MAXIMUM
NOTE
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
NO.2 TEMPERATURE

-
For a period not to exceed 30 seconds GAGE
after APU start, pressure exceeding - -54°C TO+204°C
4000 is permissible. NORMAL
230°C MAXIMUM

CABIN HELIUM SOURCE CABIN PRESSURE

PRESSURE GAGE ALTIMETER
NO MARKINGS NO MARKINGS

X-15-1-51-4E

Figure 5-1. (Sheet 4 of 4)

5-5
Section V T.O. lX-15-1

DESIGN STRUCTURAL LIMIT

...~
MACH LIMITS VS ALTITUDE
-- - TEMPORARY LIMIT (Ventral,
Part No. 240-23501 or 240-
23501-201, and movable vertical
stabilizer, Part No.
240-23001-201 )

X-15-1-93-6

Figure 5-2.

VENTRAL JETTISON LJMITATIONS. SPEED BRAKE OPERATION.

For all flights where the ventral is installed for launch,

the ventral should not be jettisoned at speeds above 300 The upper and lower speed brakes must be operated
knots IAS or Mach 3.5, whichever is lower. Under simultaneously and symmetrically. This restriction
normal flight conditions, with the SAS functioning is imposed because no analysis has been conducted to
properly, the ventral should not be jettisoned except determine limitations required for asymmetrical opera-
during the landing approach. tion of the speed brakes.
NOTE
In the event of controllability problems arising
from the loss of various SAS modes (primarily
loss of the SAS roll mode), jettisoning of the
I~
ventral greatly improves airplane handling Be cautious when using speed brakes for ap-
characteristics in the Mach number range of proach control, because rate of descent approxi-
2.0 to 3. 5. mately doubles with the speed brakes open.

With the ventral jettisoned, the following limits apply:

NOTE
Maximum angle of attack, 16 degrees

Maximum rate of roll, 30 degrees per second Normally, the speed brake handles are mechan-
ically interconnected to ensure simultaneous
Maximum Mach number, 3.5 and symmetrical operation of the speed brakes.
5-6
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section V

STABIllTY AUGMENTATIONSYSTEMl1:MITATIONS. Mach numbers and angles of attack. Abrupt aileron

rolls under these conditions should be simulator-tested
For normal flight operations, SAS gain settings should before flight.
be:

Ventral on - pitch, 8; roll, 6; yaw, 8. YAW (SIDESllP) LIMITATIONS.

Ventral off - pitch, 8; roll, 4; yaw, 8.

Abrupt yawing maneuvers utilizing maximum rudder
Under conditions of a single system APU failure or rate and deflection should not be performed. Yaw
maneuvers exceeding one half of the maximum rudder
failure of either the roll or yaw functions, lateral-
directional control problems can be encountered in the deflection in one direction, followed immediately by a
speed range of Mach 2. 5 to 6. 0 and at angles of attack similar deflection in the opposite direction should not
in excess of 8 degrees nose up with the ventral installed. be performed. The maximum permissible yaw (side-
Should control problems be encountered under these slip) angles at varying Mach numbers and altitudes are
shown in figure 5- 5.
conditions, the following recovery techniques should
be employed:
PROHIBITED MANEUVERS.
1. Reduce angle of attack.

2. Extend speed brakes. The airplane is restricted from performing the fol-
lowing maneuvers:
3. Jettison ventral if below the airspeed limit for
jettisoning the ventral. a. Spins.
NOTE b. Snap rolls or snap maneuvers.

If the ventral is not installed, the failures noted

previously will not seriously affect airplane BALllSTIC CONTROL SYSTEM LIMIT ATIONS.
controllability.
ACCELERATION llMITA TIONS. To conserve catalyst bed life, continuous operation
of the ballistic rocket motors should be limited to 3
In order to ensure correct interpretation of the two seconds for ground or captive flight tests.
basic types of acceleration limitations imposed on
this airplane, the following definitions apply: LANDING LIMITATIONS.
a. Symmetrical flight is that where airplane bank
angle is constant. Information on sink speed - angle-of-attack limits for
touchdown will be supplied when available.
b. Asymmetrical flight is that involving a bank angle
change rate, i. e., rolling flight.
CENTER-OF-GRAVITY llMITATIONS.
SYMMETRICAL.

Acceleration limitations for symmetrical flight at var- Since the in-flight horizontal and vertical centers of
ious gross weights are shown graphically in figure 5-3. gravity are automatically controlled as a result of the
design of the engine and engine turbopump propellant
systems, the horizontal CG normally is maintained
within the forward and aft aerodynamic limits. The
vertical CG will be within the engine adjustment pro-
visions if all of the design equipment is installed. The
Negative G imposed at low engine propellant engine and engine turbopump propellant jettison rate
is automatically controlled to prevent an unsatisfactory
levels may result in premature main cham~
burnout. CG condition. If airplane response during jettisoning
indicates an unsatisfactory trim condition, selective
ASYMMETRICAL. jettisoning of the engine propellants should be accom-
plished.
Acceleration limitations for various gross weights from
33,000 to 19,000 pounds are shown in figure 5-4. At WEIGHT LIMITATIONS.
burnout gross weight (15,119 pounds), asymmetrical
limitations are 5.2 G and 0 G.
The design of the airplane precludes the possibility
ROLL llMITATIONS. of overloading at launch. The structural design weight
for landing does not include engine propellants or engine
The maximum allowable rate of roll is 100 degrees per turbopump monopropellant; therefore, they must be
second. Roll coupling can be encountered at the higher jettisoned before landing.
5-7
Section V T. O. lX-15-1

Figure 5-3. (Sheet 1 of 4)

5-8
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section V

Figure 5-3. (Sheet 2 of 4)

5-9

I
Section V T. O. 1X-15-1

Figure 5-3. (Sheet 3 of 4)

5-10
 ,
T. O. lX-15-1 Section V

Figure 5-3. (Sheet 4 of 4)

5-11
 Section V T. O. 1X-15-1

OPERATING FLIGHT LIMITS

ASYMMETRICAL FLIGHT

MAXIMUM AllOWABLE

CONDITIONS:

GEAR AND FLAPS-UP

ENGINE PROPElLANTS AND ENGINE
TURBOPUMP MONOPROPElLANT
ABOARD

X-15-1.93-11

Figure 5-4.

5-12

I
 T. O. 1X-13-1 Section V

L This page intentionally left blank.

5-13
Section V T. O. 1X-15-1

MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE YAW ANGLES

X-lS-I-93-12

Figure 5-5.

5-14
 T. O. 1X-15-1 Section V

iI
"' '""""""",,,

MAXIMUM ALLOWABLEYAW ANGLES

......................

X-15-1-93-13

5-15/5-16

I
J
 T. O. 1X-15-1

SECTION VI

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE PAGE

Minimum Control Speeds. ............. 6-1 Flight Control Effectiveness ...... 6-1
L
Spins and Spin Recovery .............. 6-1 Flight Configuration Characteristics. . . . . . . 6-3

MINIMUM CONTROL SPEEDS.

moved in the direction of spin rotation and full op-
posite rudder should be applied. When rotation stops,
Minimum control speeds are not determined by a the stick should be centered and moved forward to
maximum lift coefficient, but by directional stability prevent a spin in the opposite direction, and the rudder
and estimated regions of buffet. Minimum control neutralized.
speeds for empty and launch weights are shown in
figure 6 -1.
FLIGHT CONTROL EFFECTIVENESS.
SPINS AND SPIN RECOVERY.
PITCH CONTROL.

For flight above approximately Mach 1. 4, the maxi-

mum normal acceleration obtainable can be limited
I WARNING I by the maximum stabilizer deflection available. Maxi-
Intentional spins in this airplane are prohibited. mum normal acceleration can also be limited by an
estimated -initial buffet effect between Mach. 5 and
VENTRAL ATTACHED. Mach 1. O. Below Mach. 5, the limit is imposed by
the reduced directional stability at angles of attack
above 20 degrees. At low speeds, the angle of attack
Fully developed spins are not apt to occur with the for buffet onset due to airflow separation on the wing
ventral attached, except possibly due to reduced direc- is about 13 degrees. Turbulence behind the vertical
tional stability at an angle of attack in excess of 20 stabilizer may cause considerable buffet at any angle
degrees. If there is any yawing or rolling due to this of attack. Therefore, buffet onset should not be con-
reduced stability and a spin is entered, the stick should sidered as a stall warning until buffet characteristics
immediately be moved in the direction of spin rotation have been determined from flight experience.
and full opposite rudder (against rotation) should be
applied. When the spin has stopped, the stick should ROLL CONTROL.
be centered and moved forward to prevent a spin in the
opposite direction, and the rudder neutralized.
Adequate roll control is available throughout the Mach
number range from high-speed flight to landing speeds.
Rate of roll is limited to 50 degrees per second when
the SAS roll gain selector knob is set on high gain.
At lower angle of attack, there is slight favorable yaw
Do not immediately attempt to level the wings (yaw in direction of roll application). As the angle
by moving the stick against the direction of of attack increases above Mach. 6, there is a decrease
rotation. in this yaw. At low Mach numbers and in the transonic -
region, there is very little change in roll effectiveness
VENTRAL JETTISONED. with angle of attack. Roll effectiveness increases with
an increase in angle of attack above Mach 2.6. Roll
coupling does not present a problem with or without
With the ventral jettisoned and the airplane at an angle SAS, except at extremely high Mach numbers at high
of attack in excess of 17 -1/2 degrees, a spin may be altitudes. Roll coupling does not occur at as low an
developed from which recovery may be difficult or altitude with SAS in as it does with SAS out, and in
impossible; therefore, jettisoning of this surface should either case, roll coupling would not occur below ap-
be delayed as long as possible before entering the proximately 100,000 feet. Maximum rates of roll at
landing pattern. Recommended recovery is the same other Mach numbers and altitudes are limited by the
as when the ventral is attached: The stick should be maximum differential horizontal stabilizer deflection.
6-1
Section VI T. O. lX-15-1

MINIMUM CONTROL SPEEDS

1 GEAR AND FLAPS UP, LOWER VERTICAL STABILIZER ATTACHED

Minimum Control Speed for Landing

EMPTY WEIGHT (Lower Vertical Stabilizer Je"isoned,
Gear and Flaps Down)-141 Knots CAS

LAUNCH WEIGHT

BASEDON: ESTIMATEDDATA
DATA AS OF: 1 NOY 19SB

Figure 6-1

YAW CONTROL. tical stabilizer is partially blanketed by the wing and

fuselage. At high Mach numbers and high angles of
Pilot feel is supplied as a function of surface deflection, attack, this increase in effectiveness of the ventral
and the variation of pedal force with pedal travel is produces an appreciable amount of roll in a direction
linear. The upper and lower (ventral) vertical stabi- opposite to the yaw. Although the ventral is jettisoned
lizers give good directional control throughout the before landing, the upper vertical stabilizer supplies
flight range. The ventral is effective in retaining adequate directional control for low-speed flight up
stability at high angles of attack where the upper ver- to 17-1/2 degrees angle of attack.

6-2
 T. O. lX-15-1 Section VI

SPEED BRAKES.

At supersonic Mach numbers, in addition to increasing I WARNING ~

the effectiveness of the vertical stabilizers and im-
proving directional stability, the speed brakes increase . If a -5-degree stabilizer deflection is used for
longitudinal stability. As angle of attack increases, the an empty-weight launch, the airplane will rotate
effect of the speed brakes on longitudinal and directional about the forward part of the pylon, slide out-
stability also increases. In addition to improving board, and hit the engine nacelles and wing tip.
stability at high Mach numbers, the speed brakes Full-weight launches with -5-degree stabilizer
obviously provide additional drag to the airplane. At deflection are acceptac1e; however, it is re-
subsonic Mach numbers, the speed brakes reduce both commended that a stabilizer deflection of zero
the longitudinal and the directional stability. During to + 5 degrees be used for all launches.
the glide, which would occur at lower altitudes, the
basic drag of the airplane gives high rates of descent,
and the increase in rate of descent due to use of the . The airplane rolls outboard upon release from
speed brakes is undesirable. the carrier. Roll control is very sensitive at
this point, and no more than 2 degrees dif-
ferential stabilizer deflection should be used if
a correction is to be made.
FLIGHT CONFIGURA TION CHARACTERISTICS.

LAUNCH.
GLIDE.

Launch from the carrier airplane can be accomplished Figure 6-2 presents rate-of-descent - Mach number
satisfactorily for 1 G flight conditions during carrier combinations for maximum glide distances at various
airplane acceleration, climb, and cruise as well as altitudes and gross weights. A sample problem is
the design launch conditions. provided with the chart.

6-3

I
Section VI T. O. lX-15-1

.. '--'"
..J>
...
0...

'"
n
Z
..
::!
"-
:=
n

WEIGHT-IOOO LBS
X-15-1-93-3

Figure 6-2

6-4
 T, O. lX-15-1 Section VI

GLIDE DISTANCES BASED ON: ESTIMATED DATA

DATA AS OF: 1 NOV. 19SB

~
VI
"-
t:
..
z
...
u
VI
~
---------
...
o
...
..
C
..

1. ENTER CHART FOR GROSS WEIGHT AT START OF GLIDE (FOR

EXAMPLE, 13,000 LBS).
2. MOVE VERTICALLY UP TO CURVE REPRESENTING ALTITUDE AT
START OF GLIDE (30,000 FEET).
3. MOVE HORIZONTALLY TO RIGHT TO RATE OF DESCENT LINE
(125 FEET/SECOND).
4. CONTINUE HORIZONTALLY TO RIGHT TO ALTITUDE AT START
OF GLIDE (30,000 FEET).
5. DROP VERTICALLY TO READ MACH NUMBER (.57) TO OBTAIN
125 FEET/SECOND RATE OF DESCENT.

X-15-1-93-4

6-5/6-6
~ 0