59668 - Turboprop Engine Loading During High and Low Maneuver Intensity Flight Mode 

The life consumption rate of the aircraft engine consists a vital input for aircraft operators which aim to an effective fleet management strategy. T6 aircraft, propelled by the PT6 turboprop engine, is operated by the Hellenic Air Force, both for training and aerobatic purposes. The current study, focuses on quantifying and comparatively assess, the engine life consumption rate for the following missions: i) An “aerobatic” mission which is a typical high intensity maneuver flight and ii) a “training for patrol” mission, representing a typical low intensity maneuver flight. Missions were selected with the criterion of setting the limits of the engine mission loading range. The goal of the study was to define the extent of the engine loading range and secondly to set up the methodology for continuously monitoring the engine life consumption rate with the intent to support the squadron flight management plan. The study was based on real time data recorded during the respective flights. An engine built using GasTurb simulation software, was used to fill in engine operating data at stations were recordings are not been taken. Engine life consumption was based on creep and low cycle fatigue failure mechanisms, of the first gas generator turbine stage.