Aircraft Nitrogen Charging Cart

The Aircraft Nitrogen Charging Cart is a specialized ground support equipment (GSE) designed to efficiently service and maintain aircraft nitrogen systems. Manufactured by Hydraulics International, Inc. (HII), this cart ensures a reliable and high-pressure supply of nitrogen gas, essential for various aircraft operations, including tire inflation, strut servicing, and accumulator charging.​

Technical Details:

1. Nitrogen Storage and Capacity:

   • Cylinder Configuration: The cart is equipped with multiple high-pressure nitrogen cylinders, with standard configurations accommodating 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12 bottles. Custom configurations are also available to meet specific operational requirements.

     
     

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2. Pressure Specifications:

   • Maximum Pressure: Capable of delivering nitrogen gas at pressures up to 3,600 psi, suitable for various aircraft nitrogen systems.

     
     

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   • Pressure Regulation: Equipped with regulators that allow precise control of outlet pressure, ensuring compatibility with different aircraft specifications.​

3. Booster System:

   • Air-Driven Gas Booster: The on-board booster system utilizes an air-driven gas booster, enabling high-pressure charging even when cylinder pressures fall below 300 psi. This feature ensures efficient nitrogen delivery without the need for external high-pressure sources. ​

   • Self-Fill Option: An optional self-fill feature allows the on-board cylinders to be refilled from a low-pressure nitrogen source without removal, using the booster to achieve the desired pressure.​

4. Design and Mobility:

   • Towable Configuration: Designed with a robust, towable chassis, the cart can be easily transported across airfields or within hangars, enhancing operational flexibility. ​

   • Compact Design: The low-profile design facilitates maneuverability in confined spaces and ensures ease of storage when not in use.​

5. Safety Features:

   • Pressure Relief Valves: Integrated safety valves prevent over-pressurization, protecting both the equipment and operating personnel.​

   • Secure Cylinder Mounting: Features robust securing mechanisms to hold nitrogen cylinders firmly in place during transportation and operation, minimizing the risk of accidents.​

6. Operational Components:

   • High-Pressure Hoses: Equipped with durable hoses capable of handling high-pressure nitrogen transfer, ensuring reliability and safety during operations.​

   • Control Panel: User-friendly interface with gauges and controls for monitoring and adjusting pressure, facilitating straightforward operation by ground personnel.​

Applications:

• Tire Inflation: Provides nitrogen for aircraft tire inflation, maintaining proper pressure and enhancing tire lifespan.​

• Strut Servicing: Supplies nitrogen for servicing landing gear struts, ensuring proper shock absorption during landing and taxiing.​

• Accumulator Charging: Used to charge hydraulic accumulators, maintaining system pressure and performance.​

• Emergency Servicing: Essential for rapid nitrogen system servicing in response to unscheduled maintenance needs or after in-flight nitrogen system deployment.

Technical Specifications Table:

Incorporating the Aircraft Nitrogen Charging Cart into ground support operations ensures that aircraft nitrogen systems are maintained to the highest standards, thereby enhancing flight safety and operational readiness. Its robust design, coupled with essential safety features, makes it an indispensable asset for aviation maintenance teams.