Fuel Leak Detection System for Aircraft (Air Force)
Abstract
Test two systems that have the potential to improve leak detection during depot maintenance thus reducing unexpected labor costs and improve aircraft quality and delivery to the warfighter. Current methods used to detect fuel leaks in full aircraft and off airframe components are slow, inaccurate, and result in leaks not being detected until an aircraft is refueled prior to the initial check flight. Leaks detected at this time add unexpected labor (over 4000 hours for the F-16 April 2008 to 2009) from additional defuel and purge, aircraft towing, airframe component removal and disassembly, along with potential increases (as an example for the F-16) of 30 to 45 day aircraft flow days. The primary output is a safe tracer gas leak detection system for F-16, A-10, and C-130 full aircraft and off air frame components. If successful, the system(s) can potentially be used at depot, field level, and DoD wide for multiple weapon systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 3a2940c88037fd62abb0becc193a6d90