Power washing a jet engine...interesting results

[LJ45]

It just goes to show that you learn something new everyday.

I'm not new to jet aircraft, and thought that I was pretty much up to speed on most maintenace procedures. This is the first time I have ever seen or heard of such a thing. I guess not having any PT6 time might have something to do with it. However, walnut shells through a Dart on a G1 would be great sight to see! Is this a more common procedure with older type motors? I suppose I really should talk with the Honeywell rep regarding our motors, but I'm curious if technology has anything to do with the level of cleanliness.

Honeywell engines don't have the compressor wash schedule like a Pt6 or Williams engine. Heck on the TFE731 I don't know if they ever do one

 

[Launchpad]

we do them after every flight in the turbo-beaver. Let the engine cool down, hook up the hose and blast it. Doesn't seem right to me either, but salt water kills.

 

[avbug]

I guess not having any PT6 time might have something to do with it. However, walnut shells through a Dart on a G1 would be great sight to see! Is this a more common procedure with older type motors?

This is standard with nearly all turbine powerplants, though walnut shell isn't always used. Various nonabrasive media are used, and washes using solvents, soaps, and water are standard.

This has nothing to do with "older" powerplants, and nothing to do with PT6's.

 

[AvroGuy]

Military has been doing it for years in the A-10. I don't know about other engines though

 

[SpaceBall 1]

I operated TFE731's on Westwinds for years. Never had a compressor wash there and don't recall it being in the maintenance manual for the 731-3 engine. A compressor wash would probably gut that engine or cause another #@&% oil leak!!! The Pratts on the Citations are washed anytime there is a ITT issue or power loss. Practically the first step in the troubleshooting process.

 

[Publishers]

Twice a year on a commercial jet is about 1500 hours between probably once during a C check and one other.

 

[cargoflyr69]

When they used to run crushed walnut shells through the Darts on a G1 it was a sight to see... Smelled pretty good too!

I've witnessed it long ago... wish i had a video camera back then!

 

[4fanman]

There is usually no doubt about whether or not your Caravan had a comp wash overnight by mx after you've turned on the bleed heat.

Not exactly spring fresh.

 

[Regul8r]

http://www.airliners.net/photo/Leisure-Air/McDonnell-Douglas-DC-10-30/0274416/M/

 

[NCherches]

It's cheaper to just fly through moderate precip

 

[cheyflyer]

http://www.airliners.net/photo/Leisure-Air/McDonnell-Douglas-DC-10-30/0274416/M/

Thats a pretty cool pic. Notice that the guy is tethered to the tug... for obvious reasons!