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Zachery Baker,
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Jimmy White,
Manager APU Shop
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At Duncan Aviation Parts & Rotable Sales, we receive thousands of phone calls from customers wanting to buy parts because they found us in PartsBase.
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Here's what PartsBase customers are saying
PartsBase is a very useful tool I take advantage of every day. When it comes to sourcing parts I operate on urgent AOG requirements. PartsBase provides me with so many useful tools and diverse vendors to make sure I can satisfy all my requirements.
Zachary Baker
Emergency Response Coordinator
Jimmy White
Operations Manager APU Shop
I understand firsthand why companies use PartsBase.The PartsBase team is exceptional and the system is top notch. I truly appreciated all the support over the years.
At Duncan Aviation Parts & Rotable Sales, we receive thousands of calls from customers wanting to buy parts because they found us in PartsBase.
Chris Gress
Parts & Rotable Sales Manager
Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Parts for Sale
An Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) plays a vital role in powering various aircraft systems when the main engines are not operational. Which is why any professional or amateur looking to understand aircrafts needs to be familiar with APU parts.
So in this article we will delve into the various roles that APU parts carry out in aircrafts, as well as their key components, the different types of APUs, and some maintenance and repair tips. Buckle up, and let’s look at the details.
What is an Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU)?
The APU operates independently from the main engines, and its purpose is to increase safety and reduce reliance on ground-based power sources. It’s located in the tail section of most aircraft and serves as a supplementary power source for starting the main engines.
This helps in providing electrical power, and operating other essential systems such as air conditioning and hydraulic pumps. But this isn’t all they do, so let’s get into some other functions of APUs.
The 5 Functions of APU in Aircraft
The APU is responsible for several critical functions in an aircraft. Here are some of the main roles that APU parts carry out:
Ensuring that critical systems remain operational even when the main engines are off.
Providing pneumatic power to initiate the ignition process.
Supplying compressed air to the engine's starter motor.
Maintaining a comfortable cabin environment by powering the air conditioning system.
Driving the hydraulic pumps, which control the movement of different aircraft components.
It’s no wonder that the APU serves a critical role in safe, comfortable, and effective aircraft flight. But let’s look at the main components of the APU so you can better understand how APUs carry out these functions.
The 7 Key Components of an Aircraft APU
An APU consists of several key components that work together to generate power and maintain essential aircraft systems. These components include:
Component of APU | Function of The Component |
Generator | It produces electrical power to energize the aircraft's electrical systems by converting mechanical energy from the APU's turbine into electrical energy. |
Turbine | It is the heart of the APU, responsible for powering the generator and other systems by the combustion of fuel and air mixtures. |
Combustion Chamber | It houses the fuel and air mixture, generating high-temperature gasses that expand and drive the turbine. |
Air Intake and Exhaust Systems | The air intake system collects ambient air and directs it into the combustion chamber. The exhaust system expels the combustion byproducts. |
Control Unit | It manages APU operation by monitoring parameters and ensuring optimal performance. |
Load Compressor | It compresses ambient air, which is then mixed with fuel in the combustion chamber to sustain combustion and drive the turbine. |
Gearbox | It serves to transmit power from the turbine to various components, providing mechanical drive and electrical power as required. |
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These key components work together seamlessly to provide the necessary power and support for aircraft systems. However, now that we understand what APUs are, why they are important, and their main functions, you need to understand the different types of APUs available.
The 2 Types of Aircraft Auxiliary Power Units
APUs come in various types, each with its own unique features and advantages. Let's explore two of the most commonly used types:
Type of APU | Function | Advantages | Ideal for: |
Turbine-Powered APU | They utilize a gas turbine engine to generate power, offering exceptional reliability, efficiency, and a consistent power output. |
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Battery-Powered APU | They rely on batteries as their primary power source, providing quieter operation and reduced emissions. |
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Top 9 Tips to Maintain and Repair Your Aircraft Auxiliary Power Units
Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the proper functioning of an APU. So here are some tips on how to care for your aircraft auxiliary power units:
Follow the guidelines for inspection intervals and maintenance procedures, which consider factors such as usage, and operating conditions.
Carry out visual inspections, functional tests, and measurements of critical parameters to evaluate APU performance.
Be sure to lubricate your parts on a regular basis.
Remember to replace your filters according to the guideline recommendations.
Calibrate the systems that are dependent on the APU.
Adhere to maintenance schedules
When components exhibit signs of damage, replace them.
Maintain an inventory of essential APU spare parts to minimize downtime in the event of component failures.
Store your parts properly to extend their lifespan and integrity.
Following these tips will help identify potential issues early, preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring safe and reliable operation.
Last Thoughts on Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Parts
Understanding aircraft auxiliary power units and their key components is vital for aviation professionals. The different types of APUs, such as turbine-powered and battery-powered, offer various advantages and are used across different aircraft applications.
Regular inspection, maintenance, and timely repair or replacement of APU parts are essential for safe and reliable operation. By following recommended practices and adhering to manufacturer guidelines, aircraft operators can ensure efficient APU performance, enhance safety, and reduce maintenance costs.
From turbine-powered APUs that provide reliable and consistent power to battery-powered APUs that offer quieter operations and reduced emissions, these systems play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of aircraft.
The 2 Most Common Issues with Aircraft Auxiliary Power Units
Overheating can lead to system failures, reduced performance, and potential safety hazards. It may result from various factors such as:
Inadequate cooling
Excessive load
Or component malfunctions.
Oil leakage is another prevalent issue with APUs. It can occur due to degraded seals, worn gaskets, or faulty components. Oil leakage poses multiple risks, including:
Lubrication system failure
Decreased performance
And potential fire hazards.
It is crucial to address oil leakage promptly through proper inspection and timely repair or replacement of affected components. So here are some tips on how to avoid these problems.