Aircraft Engine Starting Systems
Whether an aircraft features a gas turbine or reciprocating engine, most aircraft engines require some sort of assistance in initiating their starting process. Known as starters, such devices are electromechanical mechanisms that produce the mechanical energy required to rotate an engine before it becomes self-sustainable. As different engines require varying amounts of force and rotation to begin their operations, there are numerous engine starting systems that may benefit particular aircraft types. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of the common aircraft engine starting systems so that you may find what is best for your particular needs.
While many early reciprocating engines only required the use of hand cranking for starting operations, newer and more advanced models have since warranted the use of improved inertia starters and direct cranking electric starting systems. Inertia starters include the simplistic hand operated types, though many have since implemented electronic components and circuitry for the means of assisting the user in cranking the engine or for more automatic operation. With all types, however, kinetic energy is stored within a flywheel that is capable of rotating at high speeds. Through the use of a hand crank or an electrical circuit, the flywheel is fully energized before it is engaged to the crankshaft. Once engaged, all the flywheel’s energy is released into the engine by the means of reduction gear sets and a torque overload release clutch.
The direct cranking electric starter is the most widely used starting system for the reciprocating engine, and it can provide instant and continual cranking when energized. In general, a standard direct cranking electric starter consists of an electric motor, reduction gears, and an automatic engaging and disengaging mechanism. Depending on the amount of starting torque that is required for a specific engine, the battery will provide a current ranging between 100 and 350 amps. The voltage is carried through a cabling system to the starter solenoid, and the closing of the solenoid allows the engine to begin being cranked directly. For larger reciprocating engines, a more complex direct cranking electric starting system may be present.
To begin the operations of a typical turbine engine, the high-pressure compressor needs to revolve at high speeds. This is due to the fact that the blade turbine engine assembly is capable of driving the compressor itself once the combustion cycle has begun. To reach a self-sustaining speed, the air turbine starter needs to supply a torque that surpasses the value required to combat the forces of inertia and compressor friction load. As such, the starter will often continue to crank the engine even after it has reached a self-sustaining speed as it is paramount that the fuel-flow rate reaches a value that is sufficient for acceleration. Once the fuel-flow rate and compressor speed have both reached self-sustaining operations, the starter is automatically cut off.
Depending on the engine and its particular needs, there are a few types of starters that may serve an aircraft. For gas turbine engines in particular, basic starters include direct current electric motor equipment, starters and generators, and air turbine starters. Similar to other aircraft systems and components, it is crucial that the starters and their related components are well maintained and inspected on regular intervals to ensure their health and operability. A failing starter can result in inefficient start procedures or the inability to operate an aircraft, warranting the importance of their well-being. If you are in need of aircraft engine parts or starting system components, look no further than NSN Parts Now.
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