How to Care for an Aircraft Piston Engine
With an aircraft piston engine, the pressurized forces of combusted fuel are harnessed for the creation of rotational movement. This process is achieved by one or more reciprocating pistons which operate similarly to those of automobiles, and various aircraft piston engine types each provide their own unique benefits for flight. While the piston engine is a longstanding, reliable form of thrust generation for smaller and lighter aircraft, they still require regularly scheduled maintenance and inspection to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. From lubrication to inspecting each piston engine valve, there are a number of steps that one can take to keep their aircraft piston engine airworthy for flight.
As each aircraft piston engine may be built to varying specifications, face different uses, and have different lifespans, manufacturers often provide the number of operating hours that a particular engine can face before it needs to be fully inspected for possible replacement and repair. Known as time between overhauls, or TBO, most engines tend to fall around a maintenance schedule of 2,000 hours. While some may be able to push past such a recommendation by a number of operational hours, many may face largely detrimental effects if maintenance is ignored. As such, always following a more strict maintenance and inspection schedule is highly recommended for all aircraft piston engine types.
One of the main ways in which one can keep a piston engine working is to maintain the temperatures of cylinder heads. By adjusting the levels of power and the balance of the fuel-air mixture, the resulting combustive heat can be controlled to keep various components cooler. While there are no set values that are proven, many claim that having a richer exhaust gas can keep the cylinders cooler, thus leading to lower pressures and cleaner engines. Additionally, some have also found that having a more “lean-of-peak” engine operation can also lessen the amount of fuel burned. On the other hand, some claim that conducting operations as such actually wears down piston engine valves and the cylinders further, thus the main objective remains at what setting guarantees a lower temperature for the cylinders.
To monitor such values, as well as those of the entire aircraft piston engine, pilots should always reference their flight gauges. With more modern electronic flight instruments parts, pilots now can easily monitor the temperature of each engine cylinder, ensuring that operations remain within safe guidelines. Additionally, a number of alert systems may also be present depending on the aircraft, and such devices can make pilots aware of extreme temperatures that may occur from pre-ignition and standard combustion.
For a proactive approach of protecting components, pilots can keep a piston engine working for a long time through proper lubrication. While many manufacturers and operators recommend replacing lubrication every 25 and 50 hours of operation, those such as Lycoming go further to state that oils should be changed every four months if the standard hourly limit has not been reached in time. Constant lubrication is crucial for the operation of aircraft, as moisture can begin to buildup and cause corrosion if lubrication starts to fail. By following manufacturer recommendations, one can also ensure that they choose the correct oils for lubrication as well, as there are many types that each provide their own characteristics.
Beyond regular maintenance, inspection, and monitoring, pilots should also utilize their aircraft as often as they can. By flying less than once a month, moisture, contaminates, and other harmful substances can build up and begin causing corrosion, and thus aircraft should be kept cool and well maintained when not in use. If a piston engine begins to operate oddly or has strange noises during startup, they should always be maintained right away and not operated for safety.
With reliable aircraft piston engine parts, pilots and operators can keep their aircraft up and running for long periods of time. Whether you are in need of a piston emergency brake, piston engine valve, piston engine diesel components, or other aircraft parts, look no further than Unlimited NSN. As a leader among parts distributors, we provide customers with rapid lead-times and competitive pricing to save them time and money. Explore our robust part catalogues at your leisure, and you may receive a personalized quote in 15 minutes or less when you fill out and submit an Instant RFQ form as provided through our website.
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