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Investigation into mid-air engine failure
Posted: Sat Sep 29, 2018 11:36 pm
by Alisoncc
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
Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure
Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2018 2:39 am
by Sisemen
Not good!
Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure
Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2018 6:28 am
by Alisoncc
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
Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure
Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2018 7:12 am
by Mrs Ex-Ascot
Alison thank you for the above post, I was about to ask why the problem only related to Aussie helos.
Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure
Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2018 9:40 am
by Cacophonix
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
Save an Abo, kill a pilot!
What about Abo pilots?
Caco
Re: Investigation into mid-air engine failure
Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2018 9:58 am
by Hydromet
What about Abo pilots?
Yer stuffed.