CAA NZ AME Aeroplanes 1 (Subject 4) flashcards
CAA NZ AME Aeroplanes 1 (Subject 4) · Build recall with a focused review session.
32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.
- Limit load
- The maximum load that an aircraft structure is expected to experience in service, used as the basis for structural design and fatigue evaluation.
- Ultimate load
- The load that a structure must be able to withstand without failure, typically limit load multiplied by a factor of safety of 1.5.
- Fail-safe structure
- A design philosophy where failure of a single structural element will not cause catastrophic failure, allowing the aircraft to continue safe operation until repair.
- Stress formula
- Stress (σ) equals load (P) divided by cross-sectional area (A): σ = P/A. It is measured in pascals or psi and indicates internal force intensity.
- Composite delamination
- Separation of layers in a composite laminate, often caused by impact; may not be visible externally and requires tap testing or ultrasonic inspection.
- Hydraulic system pressure
- Typical transport aircraft hydraulic systems operate at 3000 psi (20684 kPa); pressure is regulated by relief valves and pumps.
- Skydrol fluid
- A fire-resistant phosphate ester hydraulic fluid (purple) used in aircraft; requires compatible seals (butyl) and must not be mixed with mineral-based fluids.
- Pascal's law
- Pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions; force equals pressure multiplied by area (F = P × A).
- Fuel tank venting
- A system that prevents excessive pressure or vacuum in fuel tanks as fuel is consumed or during altitude changes, ensuring proper fuel flow.
- Thermal anti-ice
- Ice protection that uses hot engine bleed air to heat wing leading edges and engine inlets, preventing ice formation.
- De-ice boots
- Pneumatic rubber boots on propeller blades or airframe surfaces that inflate to break off accumulated ice.
- AC power frequency
- Standard aircraft AC electrical power is 115 V, 400 Hz, three-phase, generated by IDGs or variable frequency generators.
- Transformer-rectifier unit
- A device that converts AC electrical power to 28 V DC for aircraft systems and battery charging.
- Generator control unit
- A unit that regulates generator voltage and protects against over/under voltage, overfrequency, and disconnects the generator from the bus.
- Pitot-static blockage
- If the static port is blocked, the altimeter freezes, the airspeed indicator behaves like an altimeter, and the vertical speed indicator reads zero.
- ARINC 429
- A point-to-point digital data bus standard used in aviation avionics for communication between line-replaceable units.
- Fly-by-wire
- A flight control system that replaces mechanical linkages with electrical signals and hydraulic actuators, providing redundancy through multiple computers.
- Oleo-pneumatic shock strut
- A landing gear shock absorber using oil and nitrogen gas to absorb landing loads; requires correct servicing of oil level and nitrogen pressure.
- Squat switch
- A switch that senses weight on wheels to prevent landing gear retraction while the aircraft is on the ground.
- Cabin pressurisation
- A system that maintains cabin altitude within limits using bleed air and an outflow valve; typical maximum cabin altitude is 8000 ft.
- Mass balance
- A weight added to a flight control surface to prevent flutter by keeping the centre of gravity ahead of the hinge line.
- Engine mount
- The structure that attaches the engine to the airframe and absorbs thrust, torque, and gyroscopic loads; requires inspection for cracks.
- Feathering propeller
- A propeller blade angle position that aligns the blade with the relative wind to minimise drag and stop rotation in engine failure.
- Propeller governor
- A device that controls propeller blade angle to maintain a selected engine RPM by regulating oil pressure to the propeller hub.
- Engine fire detection
- A system using thermocouples or continuous loop sensors to detect fire in engine compartments, triggering warning and extinguishing.
- Exhaust leak inspection
- Checking exhaust systems for cracks and soot stains, which indicate leaks that can allow carbon monoxide into the cabin.
- A check
- A periodic maintenance inspection typically performed every 500–800 flight hours, covering basic systems and structures.
- C check
- A heavier maintenance inspection usually performed every 12–18 months, involving more detailed access and inspection of structures and systems.
- D check
- A major overhaul inspection typically performed every 5–6 years, requiring extensive disassembly and structural inspection.
- Dye penetrant inspection
- A non-destructive testing method that detects surface-breaking defects by applying a penetrant dye and developer to reveal indications.
- Airworthiness directive
- A mandatory regulatory order that requires specific inspections or modifications to correct an unsafe condition on an aircraft.
- Weight and balance
- The calculation of aircraft weight and centre of gravity using moments (weight × arm) to ensure they remain within approved limits.