Let’s face it, aircraft cylinders are home to extreme environmental conditions including intense heat, friction and more…all consistently testing their durability. In general, we need to err on the side of caution, always quickly addressing any issue that might indicate that aircraft cylinders are under duress and efficient operation is affected. Subsequently, we need to always remain cognizant of any abnormalities that could pose a possible threat to our aircraft cylinders, including things such as peculiar noises or smells as well as anything we know should not be happening – like overheating or too much vibration. So what are the top causes of aircraft cylinder failure and what are some of the things we can do to help prevent them?

Problem: Aircraft Cylinder Wear

Our aircraft cylinders are subjected to repeated piston action and high heat cycles, both of which can lead toward mechanical fatigue. Aircraft cylinder wall and head wear is going to happen. It is just a question of when and where; and the older the aircraft cylinder and harsher the environment to which it is exposed, the more extensive and higher the chance of wear within aircraft cylinders.

Solution: Regular Aircraft Cylinder Inspections and Maintenance

Regularly scheduled aircraft cylinder maintenance by a highly skilled aircraft cylinder specialist, like those at Moore Performance Products, is recommended to prevent, spot and correct wear in and around aircraft cylinders. A very specific skill set is required for proper aircraft cylinder inspection, maintenance and overhaul. The Moore Performance Products aircraft service professionals are uniquely qualified in aircraft cylinder repair and possess the required knowledge and experience to properly maintain your aircraft cylinders.

Problem: Cracks in the Aircraft Cylinder Wall or Head Can Be Extremely Dangerous

Aircraft cylinder cracks can result from a number of things, including improper installation, material defects or they can simply develop over time from heat and normal wear and tear. Often discovered in the combustion chamber of the aircraft cylinder, cracks can range from small ones resulting in reduced compression, to larger cracks which can lead to engine failure.

Solution: Early Detection of Aircraft Cylinder Cracks Is Vital

It is obviously also imperative to retain the services of a highly qualified aircraft mechanic to avoid or uncover aircraft cylinder cracks before they threaten the performance of your engine or your welfare. Per FAA regulations, only an FAA-certified mechanic may overhaul aircraft cylinders and return an aircraft to service once FAA aircraft airworthiness standards are met. Family-owned and operated, Moore Performance Products is an FAA-certified repair station and FAA-certified in welding.  

Problem: Valve and Seal Wear 

It may sound small, but valve or seal wear, which can result in lost compression and aircraft cylinder performance, can be a very big problem. In fact, if a valve actually gets to the point where it breaks, it can actually disperse fragments into the cylinder creating a great deal of damage.

Solution: Timely Aircraft Cylinder Overhauls

Aircraft cylinder overhauls performed by a qualified aircraft cylinder mechanic include inspection and replacement of valves and seals as necessary.

Problem: Head & Barrel Separation

The aircraft cylinder head and barrel, requiring a precise fit, are crafted from different metals which react differently to heat. As one might imagine, this can eventually become extremely problematic. Improper torque can also cause serious problems such as compression loss or fire, as can corrosion which can also occur over time.

Solution: Maintain Strict Aircraft Cylinder Maintenance Protocol

For safety’s sake, always maintain strict aircraft cylinder maintenance protocol with a trusted and highly skilled aircraft cylinder specialist (not just your run of the mill mechanic) including professional visual inspections and compression checks, as well as timely aircraft cylinder overhauls or replacements. Proud to have served the aviation industry for over 30 years, the aircraft cylinder experts at Moore Performance Products not only provide exceptional aircraft cylinder service locally, the skilled Moore aircraft mechanics supply a variety of overhaul services nationwide and overseas for the aircraft and aerospace industries. 

Problem: Fuel Issues

Subpar fuel, including fuel containing water or contaminated by debris, can cause combustion issues which can lead to overheating, stress cracks and even aircraft cylinder failure.

Solution: Clean Fuel

Always obtain clean, filtered fuel from a reputable source.

Problem: Aircraft Cylinder Defects and Mechanical Errors

Manufacturer defects and human error can also lead to aircraft cylinder issues.

Solution: Moore Performance Products