Aircraft Fuel Component Test Bench

The Aircraft Fuel Component Test Bench is a specialized piece of ground support equipment designed to facilitate the testing and maintenance of various aircraft fuel system components. Manufactured by Hydraulics International, Inc. (HII), this test bench ensures that fuel components such as pumps, valves, and regulators function correctly and meet stringent aviation standards. By providing a controlled environment for testing, it helps maintain the safety, reliability, and efficiency of aircraft fuel systems.​

Technical Details:

1. Test Fluid Compatibility:

   • Supported Fluids: The test bench is compatible with a range of aviation fuels, including Jet-A, JP-8, and other standard aviation fuels, allowing for realistic testing conditions that closely simulate actual operational environments.​

2. Flow Rate and Pressure Capabilities:

   • Flow Rate: Capable of delivering fuel flow rates adjustable up to 65 gallons per minute (GPM), accommodating a wide variety of fuel system components.​

   • Pressure Range: Supports pressure testing up to 5,000 pounds per square inch (PSI), enabling comprehensive evaluation of components under various pressure conditions.​

3. Temperature Control:

   • Heating and Cooling: Equipped with systems to control the temperature of the test fluid, allowing for testing across a range of temperatures to simulate different operating environments.​

4. Filtration System:

   • Multi-Stage Filtration: Incorporates a multi-stage filtration system to remove particulate contaminants and water from the test fluid, ensuring that components are tested with clean fuel, which is critical for accurate results and component longevity.​

5. Measurement and Monitoring:

   • Flow Measurement: Utilizes precision flowmeters with high accuracy to monitor the exact quantity of fuel passing through the component under test, providing reliable data for assessing performance.​

   • Pressure Monitoring: Features high-accuracy pressure transducers and gauges to monitor test pressures, ensuring that components are subjected to precise and controlled conditions.​

6. Control System:

   • User Interface: Features an intuitive control panel with digital displays for monitoring flow rates, pressures, temperatures, and other critical parameters, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use.​

   • Programmable Logic Controller (PLC): Utilizes a PLC to automate test sequences, data acquisition, and safety interlocks, ensuring repeatability and reliability of test procedures.​

7. Safety Features:

   • Explosion-Proof Design: Constructed with materials and components that meet stringent safety standards for hazardous locations, minimizing the risk of ignition during testing.​

   • Emergency Shut-Off: Includes an emergency shut-off mechanism to immediately halt operations in case of anomalies, protecting both personnel and equipment.​

8. Design and Mobility:

   • Compact Footprint: Designed with a compact footprint to fit within standard maintenance facilities, optimizing space utilization.​

   • Mobility Options: Optional caster wheels or skid-mounted configurations are available to facilitate easy relocation within the maintenance area.​

Applications:

• Fuel Pump Testing: Evaluates the performance of fuel pumps, including pressure, flow rate, and operational integrity, ensuring they meet operational specifications before installation or after maintenance.​

• Valve Testing: Assesses the functionality of fuel system valves, including pressure relief valves and shut-off valves, to verify proper operation under various pressure and flow conditions.​

• Regulator Testing: Tests fuel pressure regulators to ensure they maintain correct pressure levels within the fuel system, which is crucial for engine performance and safety.​

• Leak Detection: Conducts tests to detect external leaks in fuel system components, ensuring system integrity and safety.​

Technical Specifications Table:

Incorporating the Aircraft Fuel Component Test Bench into maintenance operations ensures that fuel system components are thoroughly evaluated for performance and safety. Its robust design, advanced monitoring capabilities, and adherence to safety standards make it an essential tool for aviation maintenance facilities aiming to uphold the highest levels of operational readiness and safety.