Module 15.18 Auxiliary power units Flashcards
What are the two functions of the APU?
- Supplies pneumatic bleed
- Supplies electrical power
When is the APU primarily in use?
On the ground
APU’s are what type of engine?
Turboshaft
The free turbine in an APU is designed to run at what speed?
Constant speed
Does the APU require a CSDU?
No
What are the two methods of getting bleed air from the APU?
- Compressor section of the APU
- Separate load compressor driven by the free turbine
What are the 3 main sections of the APU?
- Accessory gearbox section
- Power section
- Bleed section
Where is the APU usually located?
In an unpressurised, fireproof compartment in the empanage
Having an APU is one of the primary requirements to achieve what?
ETOPS certification
When are inflight APU’s often started?
Landing phase
What is the purpose of APU use during landing phase?
Unloads the main engines pneumatic burden and allows the engine to keep compressor air to reserve thrust for TOGA
Depending on the design the compressor can be?
Single or multi stage
What type of combustion chambers are APU’s?
Annular
What does the Electrical Control Box (ECB) monitor?
- Start sequence
- Turbine speed
- EGT
- Oil and fuel supply
- Bleed air outlet
In the case of a failure what does the ECB do automatically?
Shutdown to prevent further damage
How is the APU fire extinguishing system activated?
Automatically
What are the 3 modes of operation?
- Start mode, from start to 100%
- Normal speed, keeps APU at 100%
- APU shutdown
How is the APU start sequence operated?
Manually by flight deck switches
Once start has been selected the APU control unit carries out what?
- System test to ensure circuits and sensors are functioning correct
- APU inlet door commanded to be opened
The APU control unit monitors the acceleration of the APU for what two reasons?
- Optimise APU start sequence
- Protect APU from damage
High thermal stress on the APU is caused by what?
Acceleration rate is too low
If the acceleration rate is too low what does the ECB do?
Stops the start sequence