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Original Date: 08/10/1998
Revision Date: 01/18/2007
Information : Aviation Engine Test System
Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWC), Lakehurst uses an Aviation Engine Test System (AETS) to detect incremental degradations in aircraft engine performance prior to catastrophic failure, and to certify acceptable performance of all aircraft engine types prior to installation in aircraft. This effort involves a test facility correlation, and the subsequent certification by NAWC, Lakehurst. During a test facility correlation, two or more facilities (one being the reference facility) determine the performance parameters of a common engine, and compare the results to the baseline performance of that engine. A proper correlation will provide an accurate assessment of the engine.
NAWC, Lakehurst personnel use test correlation to identify variables that impact engine performance and to note performance trends which indicate degradations in engine performance prior to catastrophic failure. After assessment, one or more of the following actions may occur:
Reject engines that fail minimum performance criteria
Predict and schedule maintenance actions prior to costly failures
Identify and correct flight safety issues
Identify and correct environmental issues (e.g., air and noise pollution problems)
To achieve the maximum benefits from the AETS, all deviations from the established reference facility must be properly identified, assessed for impact, and adjusted. Test correlation should be done for the following situations: after any airflow path modification and/or new construction/AETS installations; introduction of a new engine type/model/series; relocation of AETS equipment; performance baselining; and site engineering investigations.
NAWC, Lakehurst’s AETS lowers engine maintenance costs, improves flight safety, and increases engine performance and engine longevity. In addition, the AETS provides the following benefits to the customer:
Test facility configuration and geometry assessment for proper engine testing
Significant changes to the test cell or engine during correlation and the rationale for same
Engine performance data and the calculations used
Graphs of engine performance data versus baseline data
Results of test facility airflow survey
A complete list of all deficiencies with recommendations for correction
For more information see the
Point of Contact for this survey.
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