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Questions and Answers
Define PCN (Pavement Classification Number)?
Define PCN (Pavement Classification Number)?
Capability of a pavement to support an aircraft.
Define ACN (Aircraft Classification Number)?
Define ACN (Aircraft Classification Number)?
Describes relative damage to pavement by aircraft and is based on aircraft weight and configuration, pavement type, and subgrade type.
What are all AF PCNs based on?
What are all AF PCNs based on?
Full weight C-17 at 50,000 passes.
What are the origins of the ACN/PCN system?
What are the origins of the ACN/PCN system?
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How is an ACN determined for a particular aircraft?
How is an ACN determined for a particular aircraft?
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How do you read an ACN (##/X/X)?
How do you read an ACN (##/X/X)?
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How do you read a PCN (##/X/X/X/X)?
How do you read a PCN (##/X/X/X/X)?
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What are two options for determining the PCN of an airfield?
What are two options for determining the PCN of an airfield?
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What is the process for using aircraft in PCN determination?
What is the process for using aircraft in PCN determination?
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How is technical evaluation used for PCN determination?
How is technical evaluation used for PCN determination?
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What are the limitations of the ACN/PCN system for determining aircraft/airfield capability?
What are the limitations of the ACN/PCN system for determining aircraft/airfield capability?
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Study Notes
Pavement Classification and Aircraft Classification
- PCN (Pavement Classification Number): Measures a pavement's ability to support aircraft weight.
- ACN (Aircraft Classification Number): Rates relative pavement damage caused by aircraft, factoring in aircraft weight, configuration, pavement type, and subgrade characteristics.
Development of ACN/PCN System
- AF PCNs are originated from the full weight of a C-17 aircraft over 50,000 passes.
- The ACN/PCN system was initiated by ICAO in 1977, resulting in a reporting standard released in 1983.
- The U.S. Air Force started documenting PCNs in 1985 for airfields.
ACN Calculation Methodology
- To determine an ACN, reverse compute the single wheel load that reflects original pavement stress/strain, with the equation ACN = 2 x derived single wheel load (in thousands of kg).
ACN and PCN Reading Formats
- ACN Format: Presented as ##/X/X, where the first part is the ACN, the second indicates pavement type, and the last designates subgrade strength.
- PCN Format: Shown as ##/X/X/X/X, including pavement type, subgrade strength, tire pressure, and evaluation type.
Methods for PCN Determination
- Two distinct methods for determining PCN:
- Using Aircraft: Report the highest ACN from aircraft permitted on the pavement. This method lacks a standardized approach for defining "normal traffic."
- Technical Evaluation: Preferred method where the allowable load for Aircraft Ground Loading (AGL) is determined, assigning the allowable ACN as the PCN.
Limitations of ACN/PCN System
- Not all PCNs derive from the benchmark of a C-17 at 50,000 passes; thus, understanding the source of a PCN is critical.
- Knowledge of aircraft types and the number of passes utilized for calculating PCN is essential in determining airfield capabilities.
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Description
Test your knowledge on ACN (Aircraft Classification Number) and PCN (Pavement Classification Number) with these flashcards. This quiz covers definitions and essential concepts related to aircraft and pavement capabilities. Perfect for aviation students and professionals.
