Most owners consider the exhaust system to be an out-of-sight, out-of-mind component of their aircraft. The exhaust system of an aircraft is crucial to flight safety. Defective exhaust systems can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, and engine performance loss.
Since they live in a dreadful environment of tremendous heat, flame, corrosive gasses, and vibration, all exhaust systems demand concern, attention, and consideration. Furthermore, if any component fails, the consequences are dire: carbon monoxide poisoning of the aircraft's occupants, partial or total engine power loss, and fire.
Despite being composed of materials meant to resist the unpleasant process of ducting combustion pollutants overboard, exhaust systems will eventually wear out and require repair, overhaul, or replacement. What are your options, and how much will it cost when that time comes?
There are some guidelines to follow, provided by accredited aviation welding technicians, to ensure that these systems are properly inspected and maintained.
What Are The Dangers Of Not Getting It Inspecting Regularly?
It's no secret that aircraft operations include a flurry of moving parts, extreme heat, and hazardous gasses, all of which are aggressively combated by the exhaust system. The aircrafts exhaust directs dangerous gasses away from the engine and fuselage, keeping both the plane and its passengers safe. However, if the aircraft exhaust system is compromised, it could cause:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of these dangerous gasses. It is odourless and colourless, and usually passes undiscovered until it is too late. We are all aware that CO can be dangerous in our homes, but it can also be dangerous in aircraft. A fractured muffler can allow carbon monoxide to enter the cabin during heating, creating a potentially fatal situation. The presence of an aperture in the exhaust system in the heat exchanger indicates that exhaust gasses will be admitted into the cabin. Every year, there are accidents caused by pilot incapacity due to CO poisoning.
A well-maintained exhaust system will help to keep carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals out of your aircraft.
Reduces The Optimization Of The Aircraft
As exhaust systems age, the components become thinner and more susceptible to cracking due to vibration or bulging (and blowing out) due to pressure. If an internal component, such as the muffler, cracks and breaks off, it may become lodged and limit the passage of gasses via the exhaust.
As a result of the increased exhaust back pressure on the engine, each cylinder is unable to scavenge the combustion byproducts out as effectively through the exhaust valve, limiting power production. The power loss could be so severe that the aircraft cannot maintain altitude or that the engine cannot continue to run.
Regular inspection of the aircraft can increase the longevity of the aircraft. Moreover, getting it inspected or replaced by specialists who can provide reliable aircraft exhausts is even more important.
Proper Maintenance Is Critical
Each of these dangers emphasizes the crucial significance of routine aircraft exhaust system maintenance and inspection. Look for any obstructions or excessive deterioration (inside and out) that can be produced by the system's near-constant exposure to high temperatures and corrosive materials during the examination.
If an exhaust system component breaks or opens, it signifies that exhaust gasses are being blown within the cowling. There isn't much vacant space inside the cowling, so chances are the blow torch will be pointing at something important—perhaps a gasoline or oil line or an engine mount. That blowtorch won’t take long to open up a combustible fluid line and ignite a fire.
Examining For Exhaust Leaks
Exhaust leaks can be identified visually as grey or sooty residues around the leaking point or as yellow stains within the system. However, sometimes aircraft exhaust leaks do not leave any colour behind, making the leak challenging to detect. In this case, a comprehensive leakage inspection utilizing the vacuum and soapy water approach is required.
Furthermore, feeler gauges and pressurizing systems can be used to identify leaks around the gasket area.
About Acorn Welding
Acorn Welding is a certified one-stop shop for the finest quality aircraft exhaust and engine mounts. We have been in the aviation sector for a long time and are driven by our commitment to provide our clients with the finest quality services and goods. For more information, contact us today.
