AVMT 254 - Powerplant Group IV: Engine Electrical Systems / Ignition and Starting Systems

(3 credits)

Lecture:

Generators. Alternators. Starter generators. Voltage regulators and overvoltage and overcurrent protection. DC generation systems. AC generation systems. The purpose and procedure for paralleling a dual-generator electrical system. CSD and IDG systems and components. he procedure for locating the correct electrical cable/wire size needed to fabricate a cable/wire. Engine electrical wiring, switches, and protective devices. Polarity when performing electrical system maintenance. Actions in response to a warning or caution annunciator light. Maintenance on energized aircraft circuits/systems. Routing and security of wiring near flammable fluid lines.

Lab:

Replace an engine driven generator or alternator. Inspect an engine driven generator or alternator in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Troubleshoot an aircraft electrical generating system. Remove and install an engine direct drive electric starter. Troubleshoot a direct drive electric starter system. Troubleshoot an electrical system using a schematic or wiring diagram. Inspect a turbine engine starter generator. Inspect engine electrical wiring, switches, and protective devices. Determine suitability of a replacement component by part number. Inspect an electrical system cable. Determine wire size for engine electrical system. Repair a broken engine electrical system wire. Replace a wire bundle lacing. Fabricate a bonding jumper. Inspect engine electrical connectors.

This class consists of 2 lessons and 2 labs.

Ignition and Starting Systems

Lecture:

Ignition system theory. Spark plug theory. Shower of sparks and impulse coupling. Three electrical circuits of a magneto system. Solid state ignition systems. Digital engine control module (FADEC). Magneto system components and operation. Turbine engine ignition systems. Advance and retarded ignition timing (piston engine). Maintenance on engines with capacitor discharge ignition systems. Working around reciprocating engines with an ungrounded magneto. Engine starters.

Lab:

Set magneto internal timing. Time magneto to engine. Inspect magneto breaker points. Inspect a magneto impulse coupling. Remove, clean, and install spark plugs. Troubleshoot and repair an ignition system. Inspect an ignition harness. Troubleshoot ignition switch circuit. Inspect and check gap or spark plugs. Identify the correct spark plugs used for replacement installation. Troubleshoot a turbine or reciprocating engine ignition system. Inspect an electrical starting system. Troubleshoot an electrical starting system. Identify the correct igniter plug and replace turbine engine igniter plugs. Troubleshoot turbine engine igniters. Inspect turbine engine ignition systems. Inspect igniters.

This class consists of 2 lessons and 4 labs.