EASA AD CF-2020-13
Engine — Manual Calculation of Cycle Count for the Impeller and High Pressure Compressor Rotor
Summary
The Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2020-13 mandates manual calculation of cycle counts for the impeller and high pressure compressor rotor on Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210A and PW210S engines. This directive addresses inaccuracies in the Automated Damage Tracking System cycle counts to ensure these life-limited components are not operated beyond their safe limits. It applies to helicopter engines and aims to prevent potential uncontained failures that could lead to loss of control.
What Changed
CF-2020-13 introduces a requirement to discontinue the use of the Automated Damage Tracking System for counting cycles on the impeller and high pressure compressor rotor. Instead, operators must use the Manual Low Cycle Fatigue Counting method as specified in Pratt & Whitney Canada Service Bulletins PW210-72-A57142 or PW210-72-A57143, Revision 1 or later. This is a new regulation addressing cycle count accuracy for these engine components.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures accurate tracking of cycle counts on key life-limited engine parts, preventing premature or excessive use that could cause catastrophic engine failure. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain airworthiness and safety, avoiding uncontained engine part releases that could damage the helicopter and compromise flight safety. Compliance teams must update their maintenance and tracking procedures accordingly.
What To Do
Operators of PW210A and PW210S engines must immediately cease using the Automated Damage Tracking System for cycle counting on the impeller and high pressure compressor rotor. For engines with 7,000 starts or 14,000 flight cycles or more as of May 12, 2020, manual cycle counting must be used to determine component life limits and remove parts accordingly. Before engine removal for overhaul, cycle counts must be established using the approved manual method. The effective compliance date is May 12, 2020.
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