Aircraft Propeller Governor Mechanics and Operation

A propeller governor is an engine RPM-sensing device and high-pressure oil pump that automatically maintains the selected propeller RPM in a constant-speed propeller system. It responds to changes in engine RPM by directing pressurized oil to the propeller hydraulic cylinder or releasing oil from it. The resulting change in oil volume adjusts the blade angle, … Read more

Aircraft Fuel System Inspection and Maintenance

Proper inspection and maintenance of aircraft fuel systems are essential for safe engine operation and reliable fuel delivery. Regular inspections help identify leaks, contamination, worn components, and other conditions that could affect fuel system performance. The inspection of a fuel system installation consists basically of an examination of the system for conformity to design requirements … Read more

Aircraft Carburetor Maintenance and Adjustments

Proper carburetor maintenance is essential for safe engine operation and reliable fuel metering. Maintenance procedures include carburetor removal and installation, control rigging, idle mixture adjustment, and idle speed adjustment. Carburetor Removal The removal procedures vary with both the type of carburetor concerned and the type of engine on which it is used. Always refer to … Read more

Aircraft Gas Turbine Engines Types and Construction

In a reciprocating engine, the functions of intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust all take place in the same combustion chamber. Consequently, each must have exclusive occupancy of the chamber during its respective part of the combustion cycle. A significant feature of the gas turbine engine is that separate sections are devoted to each function, and all … Read more

Pressure Injection Carburetors and Automatic Mixture Control

Pressure injection carburetors are fuel metering devices that use fuel pressure and airflow-induced pressure differentials to accurately meter fuel to reciprocating aircraft engines. Unlike float-type carburetors, they operate with a closed, pressurized fuel system, improving fuel distribution and reducing susceptibility to icing and fuel starvation during maneuvering. Pressure Injection Carburetors Pressure injection carburetors are distinctly … Read more

Aircraft Turbocharger and Exhaust Nozzle Systems

Aircraft exhaust systems perform more than simply directing exhaust gases away from the engine. On turbocharged reciprocating engines, the exhaust system also drives the turbocharger, while turbine engines rely on carefully designed exhaust nozzles to optimize exhaust gas velocity and engine thrust. Understanding exhaust system maintenance, repair procedures, and nozzle design is essential for ensuring … Read more

Gas Turbine Engine Fuel Systems and Fuel Controls

The fuel system is one of the more complex aspects of the gas turbine engine. It must be possible to increase or decrease the power at will to obtain the thrust required for any operating condition. In turbine-powered aircraft, this control is provided by varying the flow of fuel to the combustion chambers. However, some … Read more

Aircraft Carburetor Induction System

A carburetor induction system delivers clean, properly metered air and fuel to the engine while protecting it from contaminants and induction icing. Aircraft maintenance technicians should understand the operation, inspection, and maintenance of the induction system to ensure reliable engine performance and prevent common induction-related problems. Figure 1 is a diagram of an induction system … Read more

Pratt & Whitney PT6 Hartzell Propeller System

The Pratt & Whitney PT6 Hartzell propeller system is a hydraulically operated, constant-speed propeller designed to provide efficient thrust and reliable performance throughout all phases of flight. This article explains the construction, operation, and control of the PT6 Hartzell propeller system, including constant-speed governing, beta and reverse operation, feathering, overspeed protection, and autofeather functions. The … Read more