RECIP TECHNOLOGY
of reciprocating engines still in operation,
this training is critical, and also helps build a
foundation for training on some of the more
modern technology.
Reciprocating engine theory:
the foundation for inspections,
troubleshooting, and repair
Training today's AMT on reciprocating
engine theory and operations is necessary to
maintain the fleet of aircraft still using these
engines, which operate using the same theory
as the more common opposed engine designs.
This style of engine has been used since
the Wright brothers' first flight. Engine design
prior to and during the early stages of World
War I were quite rudimentary as compared to
the later designs developed prior to and during World War II.
In our Airframe and Powerplant (A&P;)
program at Redstone College, we start
students out with basic physics, covering
Newton's Laws of Physics and other foundational theories. We then move on to Theory
of Operation, starting out with
basics such as work power, horsepower, force, etc. to set the stage for
basic engine theory, starting with
the Otto Cycle. The Otto Cycle is a
four-event cycle, intake, compression, ignition, and exhaust. It is the
most popular style.
The current day A&P; student
must be able to fully understand
in detail the intake, compression,
power, and exhaust stroke for
engine theory of operation.
and engines to develop power. Students learn
that atmospheric pressure, altitude, barometric
pressure, temperature, and humidity all determine the density of the air.
It is equally important that the students
understand the proper procedures when
leaning the fuel and air mixture ratios at altitude. As the training advances, the lessons
Philip Swan focuses
his attention on a
reciprocating engine.
Redstone College
places importance
on old technology
and new for its
aircraft maintenance
students.
Understanding the
relationship between air
density and power stroke
Reciprocating engine theory is
an excellent introduction to turbine
engine theory. Part 147 school students are tasked with understanding cooling, induction, fuel metering, ignition, and exhaust systems
as applicable to reciprocating engine
operation.
A&P; students must learn about
the relationship between engine
power production and the density
of the air. All aspects of flight are
determined by the amount of air
available for wings to generate lift,
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November/December 2013
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