The technology Improving the systems efficiency	Contents	The technology The new capsule

PROPANE BURNERS

For the first two Breitling Orbiter projects, burners worked with kerosene. This experimental fuel supply mode offered an enormous advantage in terms of weight, as the fuel was stored in flexible rubber bags. For this third attempt, the decision has been taken to use propane, the fuel normally used for all hot-air balloons, including those competing for the non-stop round-the-world balloon flight record. The considerable experience accumulated with this type of burners should enhance overall reliability. On the down side, however, one must reckon with a considerable increase in weight implied by this choice.

This type of liquid gas must be held in containers able to withstand considerable pressure. The necessary 28 cylindrical containers, weighing over 100 kg each, are made from titanium and stand over 2.35 meters high. In order to increase autonomy to the potential 21 days required to fit in with calculations, balloon designers have opted for a 20% increase in the quantity of fuel taken on board.

Improving the systems efficiency The technology

Contents

The new capsule The technology