Investigation into mid-air engine failure

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Alisoncc
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Investigation into mid-air engine failure

#1 Post by Alisoncc » Sat Sep 29, 2018 11:36 pm

Investigation into mid-air engine failures yet to yield answers as pilots fear for their safety
The aviation industry is concerned someone will die before authorities determine what is causing a mysterious engine problem that has resulted in at least three mid-air engine failures in northern Australia.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has warned a key engine component is wearing out much faster than it should, and has taken the step of urging pilots operating R-22 or R-44 helicopters in the northern regions of Australia — particularly those using them for mustering — to be aware of the risks.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-09-30/a ... a/10306564
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Sisemen

Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure

#2 Post by Sisemen » Sun Sep 30, 2018 2:39 am

Not good!

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Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure

#3 Post by Alisoncc » Sun Sep 30, 2018 6:28 am

Item on this afternoon's news seems to implicate changes made to Avgas to reduce harm to Abos who sniff the fuel, by reducing the lead content. So in order to protect the indigenous population from getting a high they are happy to kill pilots.

Apparently the addition of lead to fuel reduced wear on valves and valve stems. Banned in cars but still in use in aircraft piston engines. News item did show excessive wear on valves removed from helicopter engines.

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Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure

#4 Post by Mrs Ex-Ascot » Sun Sep 30, 2018 7:12 am

Alison thank you for the above post, I was about to ask why the problem only related to Aussie helos. :)
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Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure

#5 Post by Cacophonix » Sun Sep 30, 2018 9:40 am

Alisoncc wrote:
Sun Sep 30, 2018 6:28 am
Item on this afternoon's news seems to implicate changes made to Avgas to reduce harm to Abos who sniff the fuel, by reducing the lead content. So in order to protect the indigenous population from getting a high they are happy to kill pilots.

Apparently the addition of lead to fuel reduced wear on valves and valve stems. Banned in cars but still in use in aircraft piston engines. News item did show excessive wear on valves removed from helicopter engines.

Alison
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What about Abo pilots? =))

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Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure

#6 Post by Hydromet » Sun Sep 30, 2018 9:58 am

What about Abo pilots? =))
Yer stuffed.

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