Preserving Power: TFE731 Engine Preservation & Storage Tips

The TFE731 engine family stands as a pinnacle of aviation engineering, powering a multitude of aircraft with efficiency and reliability.

That said, even the most robust engines require meticulous care, especially during storage periods. Proper preservation is paramount to ensuring their performance and integrity for future use. The TFE731 family of geared turbofan engines was introduced in the early 1970s and is still in production today, with over 13,000 active engines worldwide. The TFE731, in particular, is a family of 8 different models, which include:

• TFE731-2
• TFE731-3
• TFE731-4
• TFE731-5
• TFE731-20
• TFE731-40
• TFE731-50
• TFE731-60

This powerful family of turbine engines serves many different aircraft models, including the Learjet 45, Dassault Falcon 50, IAI Westwind, Dassault Falcon 900EX, and many others.

In this article, we explore the process of preserving TFE731 engines and safeguarding their functionality and longevity.

Understanding the Importance of Engine Preservation

Aircraft engines, when not in use, are susceptible to moisture and contaminants that can lead to corrosion and performance degradation. By implementing effective preservation measures, engine owners can mitigate these risks and maintain optimal conditions for prolonged storage.

At some point, all airplanes reach the end of their operational life and are retired. Once an aircraft retires, it is either scrapped completely, repurposed somehow, or, in some cases, stripped of certain parts for reuse in another aircraft.

One of the most commonly salvaged aircraft components is– You guessed it, the engines.

As long as the engines are in a desirable condition, they can be removed from a retired aircraft and stored for later use or sale.

Just as these aircraft engines require temperamental care and attention during operation, they also require detailed care during storage and preservation.

When aircraft engines aren’t in regular use, they have the ability to get moisture and other contaminants settled into undesirable areas of the engine’s mechanics. These contaminants can cause corrosion, as well as performance problems.

This is exactly why proper storage methods and diligent maintenance are so important. Proper storage, along with scheduled assessments, will help to prevent these issues from occurring in your engine’s machinery.

** IMPORTANT: The information provided here is only a general description of the TFE731 engine preservation process. The TFE731 Maintenance Manual contains highly specific instructions, including part numbers for materials, kits, and fluids used in preservation procedures. Maintenance procedures outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions are FAA-mandated legal documents that must be followed. These instructions ensure compliance with safety regulations and uphold the highest standards of aircraft maintenance and operation. Therefore, it’s imperative to adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s guidelines. **

Aircraft Engine Preservation Prep

Before you begin, you will need to acquire a preservation kit. Preservation kits are essential components for creating an optimal storage environment. Using such kits ensures that engines are adequately protected against moisture and humidity fluctuations.

Preservation kits include:

• Barrier material
• Desiccant bags
• Humidity Indicators

– You will also need a hand-held heat-seal device strong enough to seal industrial-strength bagging materials.

TFE731 Storage Procedures

1. Drainage and Fuel System Preservation: The preservation process begins with draining the engine of oil and ensuring the fuel system is properly preserved. Removing residual oil and treating the fuel system prevents corrosion and safeguards critical components from deterioration during storage.
2. Sealing Caps and Plugs: To prevent moisture ingress and contamination, it’s imperative to seal all engine caps and plugs securely. These small yet vital components act as barriers, safeguarding internal engine parts from environmental factors that could compromise their integrity.
3. Barrier Bag Enclosure: Enclosing the engine in a barrier bag is a fundamental step in the preservation process. The barrier bag acts as a protective shield, preventing moisture and contaminants from infiltrating the engine’s internal components. It’s essential to ensure a snug fit to maximize the effectiveness of the barrier.
4. Monitoring Humidity Levels: Installing a humidity indicator on the exterior of the barrier bag is critical for monitoring storage conditions. Regularly checking the humidity levels (every 30 days) ensures that the engine remains in an environment conducive to preservation. Any deviations from optimal conditions can be addressed promptly, mitigating potential risks.
5. Desiccant Bags for Moisture Absorption: Desiccant bags are crucial for absorbing moisture within the storage enclosure. Strategically placing these bags inside the barrier bag helps maintain low humidity levels, further safeguarding the engine against corrosion and degradation. Periodically replacing desiccant bags ensures continued effectiveness throughout the storage period.
6. Proper Sealing Techniques: Ensuring a proper seal is essential to maintaining the integrity of the preservation enclosure. Engines must be securely sealed within the barrier bag using a hand-held heat-seal device. Any gaps or openings must be addressed promptly to prevent moisture ingress and preserve the preservation efforts’ effectiveness. Once you have securely heat-sealed your bag, you will then cut a hole in the corner of the bag (large enough to place a vacuum nozzle and remove excess air.)
7. Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspection of the preservation enclosure is vital to identify any potential issues or deviations from optimal storage conditions. Engine owners must adhere to a scheduled maintenance regimen, which includes inspecting the humidity indicator, checking for seal integrity, and replacing desiccant bags as needed. This process allows you to keep your TFE731 engine properly preserved and stored for up to two years at a time.

For a visual of this procedure, follow the link below and let the pros at Aviation & Marketing International walk you through it-

Keep Your TFE731 Engine at Peak Performance With AMI

Proper preservation is paramount for safeguarding the functionality and longevity of TFE731 engines during storage periods. With meticulous care and attention to detail, TFE731 engines can be effectively preserved and ready to power an aircraft efficiently and reliably when called upon. If you have questions or concerns about the preservation of your TFE731 engine, Contact the experts at Aviation & Marketing International at 281-359-3266.

TFE731 engines are our specialty, and if you have a need, we’ve got a solution: TFE731 Maintenance | TFE731 Engines For Sale | TFE731 Parts For Sale.