Aircraft engine mounts play an undeniably vital role in an aircraft. Often, we get caught up in maintaining more visible components like wings, propellers, or even the avionics. However, ignoring the aircraft engine mounts could be a costly mistake.
They are the literal backbone that holds the engine securely in place. Without regular inspections, engine mounts can deteriorate and lead to catastrophic consequences.
As an aviation welding technician, we’re here to help you out. Let’s learn why routine aircraft engine mount inspections are essential and how they enhance both safety and performance.
The Safety Benefits Of Regular Engine Mount Inspections
Enhancing Structural Integrity
Aircraft are designed with redundancy and safety in mind. But even the most meticulously engineered systems can fail if maintenance is overlooked. The engine mount is a key player in the structural integrity of the plane.
Regular inspections ensure that the engine stays securely fastened to the airframe. This prevents dangerous engine vibrations that could impact other parts of the aircraft.
During a routine inspection, technicians look for cracks, corrosion, and metal fatigue, all of which could compromise the mount's integrity. Catching these issues early allows for quick repairs, helping to avoid larger and more expensive problems later on.
Preventing Catastrophic Failure
No one wants to think about the worst-case scenario, but it’s a reality that must be addressed. If an aircraft engine mount fails mid-flight, the consequences could be disastrous. The engine could shift or, in extreme cases, detach completely, making the aircraft uncontrollable.
Regular inspections help identify potential weaknesses before they escalate into serious issues even minor damage can worsen over time. By inspecting engine mounts regularly, you can reduce the chances of sudden failures.
How to Conduct a Proper Aircraft Engine Mount Inspection
Visual Checks
The first step in any engine mount inspection is a thorough visual examination. Inspectors look for any signs of wear and tear, including cracks, corrosion, or rust. Even a small crack can grow over time due to the constant stresses placed on the engine mount.
Additionally, rubber bushings that are part of many engine mounts should be checked for wear. These bushings absorb much of the engine's vibration, and over time they can degrade. This reduces their effectiveness and puts additional strain on the metal parts of the mount.
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
In addition to visual inspections, many aviation experts recommend non-destructive testing (NDT) for engine mounts. This form of testing allows inspectors to check for internal flaws or weaknesses.
Techniques like ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, and dye penetrant inspection are common methods used during aircraft engine mount inspections.
NDT is particularly useful for identifying subsurface cracks or corrosion in areas that are difficult to inspect visually. Since the engine mounts bear the brunt of engine vibrations, they are especially susceptible to stress-induced cracks.
Torque Checks
The bolts that attach the engine to the aircraft frame also require regular inspection. Over time, vibrations from the engine can loosen these bolts, which compromises the integrity of the entire mounting system.
Therefore, technicians will often perform torque checks to ensure that the bolts are tight enough to hold the engine securely in place.
Common Issues Found During Engine Mount Inspections
Metal Fatigue
Metal fatigue occurs when a material is exposed to repeated stresses, causing small cracks to form. Over time, these cracks grow, eventually leading to a complete failure of the material.
Aircraft engine mounts are subjected to constant vibrations, making them particularly vulnerable to metal fatigue. This is one of the main reasons why regular inspections are so important.
Metal fatigue is difficult to detect without close examination, and once it reaches a critical point, the only solution may be to replace the entire mount.
Corrosion
Aircraft operate in a variety of environments, many of which are not kind to metal. Saltwater environments, in particular, can cause corrosion on aircraft engine mounts, especially on those used in floatplanes or coastal regions.
Corrosion weakens the metal and can lead to cracks and breaks. Regular inspections help identify corrosion early, allowing technicians to address the issue before it becomes a serious problem.
Vibration Damage
Over time, the vibrations from the engine can cause damage to the aircraft engine mounts. Even though these mounts are designed to absorb a significant amount of vibration, prolonged exposure to high levels of vibration can still cause wear and tear.
During an inspection, technicians will check for signs of excessive vibration damage including loose bolts, worn bushings, or even cracks in the mount itself.
About Us
At Acorn Welding, we specialize in manufacturing, repairing, and overhauling high-quality aviation products, including exhaust systems and engine mounts. As Canada’s largest aircraft exhaust and engine mount repair shop, we are committed to ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and safety.
Contact us today to keep your aircraft in peak condition!
