A METHOD OF INVESTIGATING INTERNAL LEAKAGES IN AIRCRAFT HYDRAULIC UNITS

Methods of diagnosing technical condition of aircraft hydraulic systems have been analysed. Associated precision pairs of aircraft hydraulic systems have been presented. The most essential features of operating conditions and the loads that affect distributor components of sliding pairs have been identified. The structure of BU intensifier with a sliding distributor has been illustrated. Equation for internal leakages for a precision hydraulic pair with a concentric annular gap (clearance) has been presented. Illustrated and discussed are instances of examining internal leakages occurring in hydraulic systems (with direct methods applied). Findings of research into these issues have been presented as based on measurements taken on the hydraulic system of the Su-22 operated by the Air Force of the Republic of Poland. The technique of examining the problem consists in taking and recording measurements of the drop in pressure in the hydraulic system. The relationship between time of pressure-drop and total leakage for hydraulic systems of particular Su-22 aircraft has been illustrated. The results of research direct and indirect methods have been presented and analysed. Both methods have been compared from the aspect of assessing technical condition of the aircraft hydraulic system. Potential factors that could affect measurements with a given method have been identified