What Are Reference Day Conditions? A Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

The term "reference day conditions" refers to specific environmental parameters used to standardize measurements of gaseous emissions, such as hydrocarbons (HC) and smoke, from turbine engine-powered airplanes. These conditions are essential for ensuring that emissions data is consistent and comparable across different tests and evaluations.

According to federal aviation regulations, reference day conditions include:

  • Temperature: 15 degrees Celsius
  • Specific humidity: 0.00629 kg of water vapor per kg of dry air
  • Pressure: 101,325 pascals

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, an aircraft manufacturer may conduct emissions testing under reference day conditions to demonstrate compliance with FAA regulations. This testing ensures that the aircraft's emissions are within the acceptable limits set by law.

(Hypothetical example) A new model of a commercial jet is tested for emissions on a day with a temperature of 15 degrees Celsius, specific humidity of 0.00629 kg H2O/kg of dry air, and atmospheric pressure of 101,325 Pa to verify its compliance with environmental standards.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Differences
Standard Conditions General conditions used for various scientific measurements. Reference day conditions are specific to aviation emissions testing.
Ambient Conditions The surrounding environmental conditions at a given time. Reference day conditions are a fixed set of parameters for standardization.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in aviation emissions testing or compliance, it's crucial to understand reference day conditions. Ensure that your testing aligns with these standards to meet regulatory requirements. For those needing assistance, consider exploring US Legal Forms' templates for aviation compliance documentation, or consult a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

  • Typical Use: Emissions testing for turbine engine-powered airplanes
  • Regulatory Body: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
  • Key Parameters: Temperature, humidity, pressure

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

They are specific environmental parameters used to standardize emissions testing for turbine engine-powered airplanes.