VD-10K Series 2

Barometric altitude indication on VD-10K

The VD-10K works as a mechanical aneroid altimeter. The instrument case is connected to the aircraft static pressure system. As altitude changes, atmospheric pressure changes, and the aneroid capsule inside the instrument expands or contracts. This movement is transmitted through a mechanical linkage and gear system to the two pointers on the dial. The instrument does not require electronic computation for basic altitude indication. Correct indication depends on the condition of the static pressure system and the selected barometric pressure setting.

Two-pointer scale of VD-10K Series 2

The VD-10K Series 2 uses two pointers for altitude reading. The large pointer indicates meters, with one full revolution corresponding to 1,000 meters. The small pointer indicates kilometers, with one full revolution corresponding to 10,000 meters. This layout allows the pilot to read both the current altitude and the larger altitude range at the same time. The instrument covers altitudes from 0 to 10,000 meters, which is suitable for many helicopter and transport aircraft applications where metric altitude indication is used.

Pressure setting with the barometric scale

The VD-10K includes a barometric pressure setting scale. The pilot or technician can set the required pressure using the adjustment knob, depending on the operating procedure and aircraft documentation. This allows the instrument to indicate altitude relative to the selected reference pressure, such as aerodrome pressure. The pressure-setting mechanism is an important part of the altimeter. If the scale is set incorrectly, the instrument may be mechanically serviceable but still show the wrong altitude reference.

VD-10K Series 2 cockpit lighting execution

The “K” index in the VD-10K designation is associated with red or red-white cockpit lighting adaptation. This allows the crew to read the scale during night operation with the aircraft’s cockpit lighting system. Series 2 refers to the specific execution of the instrument and should be checked during replacement. Similar altimeters may differ by lighting execution, scale marking, pressure scale, connector or installation details. For aviation supply, the exact designation and series should be confirmed by label, passport and aircraft documentation.

Use on Mi-8 / Mi-17 helicopters

On Mi-8 and Mi-17-family helicopters, the VD-10K Series 2 may be used as a cockpit altitude instrument connected to the static pressure system. It provides a simple and independent altitude reference for the crew. Since helicopter operation often includes low-altitude flight, approach, landing and route changes under varying pressure conditions, the altimeter must be readable, correctly set and free from sticking. The static line, fittings and pressure source should also be checked whenever altitude indication looks unstable or incorrect.

Inspection and maintenance of VD-10K

During maintenance, the VD-10K is checked for pointer movement, zero setting, indication error, barometric scale operation, glass condition, scale readability, case tightness and pressure fitting condition. The pointers should move smoothly without sticking or sudden jumps. The barometric setting knob should rotate normally and shift the pressure scale correctly. For installation on an aircraft, the unit should be checked according to the applicable maintenance and verification procedure. Passport, storage status, calibration condition and compatibility with the aircraft panel should be confirmed before supply.