Aircraft elevators are moveable structures hinged to the horizontal stabilizer or tailplane of a plane. They create upward or downward force to change the angle of an aircraft’s flight to either dive or climb. Operationally, the elevators are subject to many different forces that can cause microscopic fractures in the structure. They consist of honeycomb materials surrounded by composite skin. If moisture penetrates the structure, it can result in debonding between the honeycomb and the composite skin, delamination, and potential fracture. These issues can lead to catastrophic failures.
BriskHeat’s Aircraft Non-Destructive Testing Kits (NDT) are designed to detect moisture in elevators or other aircraft structures. Method B in the Airbus Non-Destructive Elevator Test Manuals allows for use of the BriskHeat NDT kit to heat airplane elevators for thermal imaging.
Thermal imaging cameras can capture temperature differences between trapped moisture and the structures themselves when heated. Without an NDT kit, aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) companies would need to remove the elevator and heat in an oven prior to testing. Not only does this require more time out of service, but risks damage while removing and reassembling parts.
NDT kits come complete with blankets specifically designed to match the aircraft elevator profile. They are available for Airbus A300, A320, A340 planes and can be designed for other aircrafts. This means a uniform method of applied heat for imaging. There is a simple to use pre-programmed temperature controller with full color touch screen for operation.
Features of the BriskHeat Non-Destructive Testing kit include:
- Dual 110/220 AC voltage
- Easy-to-use pre-programmed temperature controller
- Airbus recommended
- Two-year warranty
Included with the NDT kits are:
- Durable silicone heaters custom-designed for each aircraft
- Plug-and-play connectors on each blanket