EASA AD US-2018-17-15
Engine - Combustion Chamber Case Assembly - Inspection / Replacement / Removal
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2018-17-15 addresses certain Honeywell International Inc. TPE331 turboprop and TSE331 turboshaft engines. It mandates inspection, replacement, and removal of combustion chamber case assemblies with specific part numbers to prevent cracks and ruptures. This directive applies to multiple TPE331 engine models including the newly added TPE331-12B and certain TSE331 models.
What Changed
This AD supersedes AD 2018-02-14, revising the applicability to include the TPE331-12B engine model and correcting typographical errors in engine model references. It also allows certain weld repair procedures for combustion chamber case assemblies if approved by the FAA. The inspection and replacement requirements from the previous AD are retained with updated compliance provisions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent combustion chamber case assembly failures that could lead to in-flight shutdowns and loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain engine airworthiness and safety. The allowance of approved weld repairs provides some flexibility in maintenance procedures, potentially reducing downtime and costs.
What To Do
Affected operators must inspect all accessible areas of the combustion chamber case assembly as specified and replace any assemblies found cracked. Compliance with the AD is mandatory by October 22, 2018. Maintenance teams should refer to Honeywell Service Bulletins for detailed inspection and repair procedures and obtain FAA approval for any weld repairs performed.
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