Aircraft Basic Systems
Aircraft systems are essential components that ensure the safe
operation, performance, and control of the aircraft. These systems support
various functions such as propulsion, navigation, communication, and passenger
safety.
Types of Aircraft Systems with Definitions:
1. Electrical System
- Definition:
Provides electrical power to instruments, lights, avionics, and other
systems.
- Components:
Batteries, generators, alternators, wiring, circuit breakers.
2. Hydraulic System
- Definition:
Uses pressurized fluid to operate components like landing gear, flaps,
and brakes.
- Components:
Hydraulic pumps, reservoirs, actuators, valves.
3. Pneumatic System
- Definition:
Uses compressed air for operations such as air conditioning, pressurization,
and de-icing.
- Components:
Compressors, regulators, ducting, valves.
4. Fuel System
- Definition:
Supplies and regulates fuel to the engines.
- Components:
Fuel tanks, pumps, valves, filters, fuel lines.
5. Propulsion System
- Definition:
Provides the thrust necessary for flight using engines (jet or
propeller).
- Components:
Engines, propellers, thrust reversers.
6. Avionics System
- Definition:
Includes all electronic systems used for communication, navigation, and
monitoring.
- Components:
Radios, GPS, transponders, autopilot, radar.
7. Environmental Control System (ECS)
- Definition:
Maintains a comfortable cabin environment including temperature,
pressure, and air quality.
- Components:
Air conditioning units, pressurization valves, filters.
8. Landing Gear System
- Definition:
Supports the aircraft during landing, take-off, and while on the ground.
- Components:
Wheels, struts, brakes, steering systems, retracting mechanisms.
9. Flight Control System
- Definition:
Controls the movement and attitude of the aircraft.
- Types:
- Primary
Controls (e.g., ailerons, elevators, rudder)
- Secondary
Controls (e.g., flaps, spoilers, trim tabs)
10. Ice and Rain Protection System
- Definition:
Prevents ice formation and clears rain from critical surfaces.
- Methods:
Thermal, pneumatic, chemical, mechanical systems.
11. Fire Protection System
- Definition:
Detects and extinguishes fires in engines and other areas.
- Components:
Fire detectors, extinguishers, warning systems.
12. Oxygen System
- Definition:
Provides supplemental oxygen to crew and passengers at high altitudes.
- Components:
Oxygen masks, cylinders, regulators.