United Engine Corporation (UEC, part of Rostec) has developed a method for controlling and protecting gas turbine engines (GTE) in the event of a spontaneous change in fuel flow. The development is aimed at improving the reliability of aircraft powerplants.
The new system tracks the position of the metering needle in the fuel unit in real time. If it deviates from the specified parameters, the electronic controller instantly detects the malfunction and activates a backup control mechanism.
Unlike previous solutions, the system responds not to an increase in revolutions, but to the root cause — unauthorized movement of the metering needle. This makes it possible to prevent sudden overheating, surge, and destruction of engine components.
Two solenoid valves were introduced into the design, which correct the fuel supply when there is an excess or shortage of fuel. The electronics automatically return the parameters to the operating range, maintaining thrust at the required level.
The technology will be especially in demand for engines with a FADEC control system that do not have backup mechanical regulators.
Recall that the FADEC system is already being successfully used on a number of modern Russian aircraft engines, ensuring efficient operation without mechanical backup — the PD-14 for the MC-21, the PD-8 for the SJ-100, the prospective PD-35, and several others.
Read more materials on the topic:
- A Million Emergency Scenarios: Unique Protection for Aircraft Created in Russia
- Key Systems of the MC-21-310 Were Successfully Created Independently in Russia
- At MAI, a Device Was Created That Will Make Aircraft Lighter and More Economical
