Commuter aircraft certificated under 14 CFR part 23 are required to have, at a minimum, a one-shot fire extinguishing system. All transport category aircraft certificated under 14 CFR part 25 are required to have two discharges, each of which produces adequate agent concentration. An individual one-shot system may be used for APUs, fuel burning heaters, … Read more
The exhaust section of the gas turbine engine consists of several components. Although the components have individual purposes, they also have one common function: they must direct the flow of hot gases rearward in such a manner as to prevent turbulence and, at the same time, impart a high final or exit velocity to the … Read more
Understanding how an aircraft reciprocating engine manages its fuel and air intake is essential for maximizing efficiency, ensuring safety, and preventing engine damage. Below, we break down the core operational principles of fuel metering systems, atmospheric impacts, and the science behind the ideal air-fuel mixture. Fuel Metering System Fundamentals Basic principles of operation are discussed … Read more
Aircraft reciprocating engines primarily use either float-type or pressure-type carburetors. Although both perform the same basic function of metering fuel and air, their design characteristics affect engine performance, icing susceptibility, and operational reliability. Carburetor Types There are two types of carburetor used on aircraft with reciprocating engines—the float-type and the pressure-type. Float-Type Carburetors The float-type … Read more
Electric starting systems for gas turbine aircraft are of two general types: direct cranking electrical systems and starter generator systems. Direct cranking electric starting systems are used mostly on small turbine engines, such as Auxiliary Power Units (APUs), and some small turboshaft engines. Many gas turbine aircraft are equipped with starter generator systems. Starter generator … Read more
Propeller auxiliary systems improve the safety, reliability, and operational efficiency of aircraft propellers in various flight conditions. These systems include ice control, synchronization and synchrophasing, and autofeathering mechanisms that help maintain propeller performance, reduce vibration, and enhance aircraft controllability. This article explains the purpose and operation of these essential propeller auxiliary systems. Ice Control Systems … Read more
Constant-speed propellers automatically adjust blade pitch to maintain a selected engine rpm despite changes in airspeed, power setting, or flight conditions. They improve aircraft performance, efficiency, and engine operation compared to fixed-pitch propellers. This article explains the construction and operation of Hartzell constant-speed nonfeathering and feathering propellers, as well as the methods used for feathering … Read more
Propeller inspection and maintenance are essential for ensuring aircraft safety, performance, and reliability. Regular inspections help identify early signs of wear, damage, or imbalance that could lead to vibration, reduced efficiency, or structural failure. Proper maintenance practices vary depending on propeller type, but all must follow manufacturer guidelines and approved aviation standards to ensure continued … Read more
In aircraft engines, propellers must rotate at speeds that provide maximum efficiency while avoiding excessive tip speeds that reduce performance and create noise or vibration. To achieve this, engines use reduction gearing and specialized propeller shafts to match the high-speed rotation of the engine crankshaft to the optimal speed of the propeller. This article explains … Read more
The turbine transforms a portion of the kinetic (velocity) energy of the exhaust gases into mechanical energy to drive the gas generator compressor and accessories. The sole purpose of the gas generator turbine is to absorb approximately 60 to 70 percent of the total pressure energy from the exhaust gases. The exact amount of energy … Read more
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