An aircraft exhaust system has a substantial impact on an aircraft's functionality and passenger safety, as it works in very hot and corrosive conditions, aircraft exhaust systems need thorough inspections and upkeep.
Fissures and leakage in connections have the potential to seriously harm other engine components and expose passengers to carbon monoxide. Owners and technicians can prevent costly and risky problems down the line by learning how to accurately assess exhaust leaks and properly repair them. This is where professional aviation companies come on board.
This blog aims at examining some of the benchmarks for maintaining and inspecting your plane's exhaust system and how routine upkeep can help minimize the likelihood of malfunction while in flight.
Also Read: Top 5 Tips For The Inspection Of Aircraft Exhaust System
Thorough Scrutiny Of An Aircraft’s Exhaust System
You can spot faults with your plane’s exhaust system before they escalate into serious ones by doing routine inspections. You should look through the entire system, inculcating the engine muffler, exhaust piping, and terminal, throughout your checkup.
Due to the extremely high temperatures exhaust systems are subjected to, thermal contraction and expansion is probable to occur. The exhaust system should be frequently inspected for any indications of thermal degradation, especially at curves and couplings.
Heat And Corrosion
The task of an exhaust system is to vent out the air from the engine and fuselage and reduce the noise.. Exhaust system parts can flare up pretty quickly, but when the engine is shut off, they will also cool down fast. Metal fatigue and fissures are produced in an atmosphere with extreme temperatures and abrupt temperature fluctuations.
Over time, connectors like clamps, slip joints, and cylinder emission flange attachments can all degrade and start leaking. Because exhaust gas is so corrosive, it can seriously harm any metal part that is susceptible to a leak.
Hence additionally, you should inspect for corrosion that can happen in damp or saline settings. To prevent major complications down the road, you must rectify any potential pitfalls as early as you can.
Combustion Chamber And Muffler Inspection
The exhaust system, just like every other element of an aircraft, is susceptible to clogging over a period of time, which can impair engine efficiency and generate loud noises.When inspecting exhaust equipment, all heat deflectors and muffler shrouds should be taken off.
Lumps and bumps or creases on the muffler are indicators of metal deterioration and overheating. A mufflers lower portions and sidewalls are prone to wear out and become thinner. An awl can be used to test suspected thinning areas to check if it can penetrate the substance.
The interior makeup of mufflers can be examined during visual inspection using a strong flash or an inspection camera. Straight tailpipes have a sizable hole that makes it possible to insert an inspection mirror and a powerful light.
Inspecting Exhaust Leaks
You should search for leaks during the inspection process. Look for evidence of exhaust soot on the parts surface in the vicinity to the exhaust system. Additionally, check the exhaust system for leaks.
Leaks will show up as an orange or yellow-colored powdered debris. Any time such a discoloration appears in an exhaust part location, it is a surefire indication that there is a leak. Pay close attention to welded areas, clips, and flanges in particular.
A pressure test can be used as another method of leak detection. For thorough instructions on how to do a pressure test, consult professional aviation service providers.
Regular Oil Changes
Regular oil changes assist in preserving your planes exhaust system in addition to prolonging the lifespan of the engine. Oil is in charge of lubricating every component in your engine, preventing them from getting clogged, overheated, or degrading too abruptly.
Your engines components, notably the exhaust system, may begin to deteriorate more quickly and may fail if the oil is not changed on a continuous basis.
Exhaust Flanges And Cylinders
The cylinder flange connections are particularly vulnerable to corrosion and thermal impacts.
When exhaust gas escapes between the cylinder and gasket due to leaks in the gaskets, the aluminum quickly deteriorates and develops pits. If the space and exhaust leaks are not rectified, they will worsen with each use.
Severe pitting may happen if the leak is not repaired, necessitating the need to resurface the cylinder's damaged area. The lumpy metal must be removed in order to provide a flat sealing area and is a laborious task. Surfaces with extensive erosion can't be repaired, hence the cylinder needs to be changed.
Hence with regular inspection and maintenance, the severity of problems can be prevented and for that certified aviation service providers should be taken on board.
About Acorn Welding
Acorn Welding is a leading choice for aircraft owners in Edmonton looking for professional aircraft service providers. We employ the most knowledgeable, qualified, and skilled team. Contact us today to get your aircraft serviced.
