The Pitfalls of Ignoring Bleed Air Leaks on Your Business Aircraft

Inherent with most business aircraft is the need to utilize engine bleed air. Whether it be for de-icing, cabin heat or system control, bleed air is vital to the aircraft operation. Leaks in the bleed air system are common and often neglected for one reason or another, but one thing is for certain, a leak never fixes itself.

High Bleed Air System Demands

While a small leak in the bleed air system is usually not a problem and is probably the reason we neglect fixing it, several small leaks can be a significant problem. The system has several components which control the volume and temperature of the air in different sections of the aircraft and these components self-regulate based on the demand for that air.

Unnecessary Removal of Suspect Components

The cabin may be in demand for warm air, the windshield needs defogged and the leading edges need de-iced. The demand for bleed air begins to climb, yet the cabin is still cold. This might lead to inadvertently removing suspected components, such as the cabin temperature controller or modulating valve, for repair. Sure, they may need a reseal, but the real problem lies in the leaks. The system is demanding more than what the system can supply because of the leaks.

Erroneous Temperature Sensor Readings

There are other situations where a bleed air leak could cause even more confusion. A bleed air leak in the area of a temperature sensor can cause erroneous readings. For example, if hot bleed air leaks next to an air-conditioning or de-ice temp senor, it can cause them to read temperatures not accurate to the duct in which they are installed.

To avoid the unnecessary removal of components and ease in the troubleshooting process, it is always a good idea to spend the necessary time to fix the bleed air leaks when they are small. It may not seem like a big leak but every little bit helps. For help in identifying, troubleshooting and fixing bleed air leaks, feel free to contact me anytime. Now through the end of January 2013, save $100 on your next repair, overhaul or functional test on your electrical and pneumatic units. Download the details and coupon here.