EASA AD 2020-0253
Engine — Low Pressure Compressor Blades / Discs — Inspection / Re-lubrication / Restoration
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0253 is an airworthiness directive addressing Rolls-Royce Deutschland RB211 Trent 700 engines, specifically models Trent 768-60, Trent 772-60, Trent 772B-60, and Trent 772C-60, commonly installed on Airbus A330 aircraft. The directive mandates inspection, re-lubrication, and restoration of low pressure compressor blades and discs with specified part and serial numbers to prevent potential blade or disc failure. It includes instructions for repetitive on-wing ultrasonic inspections and in-shop restoration to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive ultrasonic inspections and re-lubrication of affected low pressure compressor blades and discs on Trent 700 engines. It also requires in-shop restoration of these components during the next engine shop visit, which serves as a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Additionally, it sets conditions for installation of affected parts and reporting of rejected blades to Rolls-Royce.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk where damaged low pressure compressor blades could crack and lead to engine failure and potential loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid in-flight engine shutdowns and ensure regulatory compliance. The directive also provides clear instructions for inspections, corrective actions, and restoration, helping maintenance teams manage affected engines effectively.
What To Do
Operators must perform ultrasonic inspections and re-lubrication of affected blades and discs within 200 engine flight cycles from 26 November 2020 and repeat every 350 engine flight cycles thereafter. Any blade with unacceptable indications must be replaced before next flight. During the next engine shop visit, all affected blades and discs must be restored to serviceable condition following Rolls-Royce instructions. Installation of affected parts is allowed only after passing inspection and re-lubrication. Rejected blade inspection results must be reported to Rolls-Royce.
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