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Airplane tyre are an essential part of aircraft that enables them to land, taxi, take off, and roll safely. They are a critical safety component that supports the weight of the aircraft. There are two main types of airplane tyres:
Radial tyre:
The majority of commercial and passenger aircraft use radial tyres. The name of this tyre comes from the internal construction of the tyre, which features layers of steel belts that radiate outwards from the centre of the wheel. This construction provides the aircraft tyre with a larger contact patch, making it ideal for landing on runways. The following are advantages of radial tyres for airplanes:
Bias ply tyre:
Only a few aircraft, such as military fighter jets, use bias ply tyres. This is because bias ply tyres are cheaper and more affordable. The internal construction of bias ply tyres has criss-crossing layers of fabric cords that extend from one bead of the wheel to the other. This design provides the tyre with a stiffer sidewall. The following are advantages of bias-ply tyres:
Regular Visual Inspection
Aircraft tires should be inspected visually before and after each flight. Look for foreign material embedded in the tread, cuts, punctures, and embedded objects. The sidewalls and tread of the tires should be checked for irregular wear patterns and other damage.
Tread Depth Measurement
Tread depth should be measured using a tread depth gauge or a penny. Replace the tire if the depth reaches the minimum limit. This limit may vary depending on safety regulations and the aircraft type. In the United States, the FAA sets a minimum limit of 1/16 inch.
Pressure Check
The tires should be checked using a calibrated tire pressure gauge. The sidewall of the tire should be measured. For commercial aircraft, the pressure should be within 5% of the manufacturer's specifications. For general aviation aircraft, the pressure should be within 10% of the manufacturer's specifications.
Load Limit Compliance
The aircraft tires should be checked to ensure compliance with the manufacturer's load limit. The aircraft's weight should be within 5% of the tire's load limit for commercial aircraft. For general aviation aircraft, the aircraft's weight should be within 10% of the tire's load limit.
Rotation
Aircraft tires should be rotated at the manufacturer's recommended intervals or when signs of irregular wear are detected. Rotation helps achieve uniform wear and prolongs tire life.
Balance
Aircraft tires should be balanced using a dynamic balancer or a static balancer. The tires should be balanced every 200 hours of operation or when signs of imbalance are detected. Imbalance can cause uneven wear, vibration, and handling problems.
Retreading
Aircraft tires should be retreaded if they meet the retreading criteria specified by the tire manufacturer. Retreading can reduce the cost of tire replacement and increase the life of the tire. The retreading process should be done by a qualified technician using approved equipment and materials.
Tire Disposal
Discarded aircraft tires should be disposed of in accordance with local regulations and environmental standards. Proper disposal prevents pollution and promotes recycling.
Record Keeping
The tire maintenance should be recorded, including inspection results, tread depth measurements, pressure checks, rotation, balancing, retreading, and tire disposal. These records should be kept in accordance with safety regulations and the aircraft's maintenance program.
Choosing the correct tire for an aircraft is a crucial aspect of maintenance that ensures the safety and effectiveness of flight operations. With several options available, from main tires to nose gear tires, each serving its function, selecting the right tire can be challenging. Here are some tips to help choose suitable aircraft tires for any operation:
Choosing the right tire for an aircraft is vital for safety, performance, and cost-effectiveness. By considering the operation, aircraft model, tire specification, brand, budget, and professional advice, buyers can make informed decisions and ensure optimal flight performance. Remember, investing in quality tires is investing in safety and reliability.
Changing and maintaining aircraft tires is a special skill that is not just learned in a day. It involves a lot of safety precautions, knowledge of tools, and procedures. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace an airplane tyre:
Prepare for Safety
Familiarize yourself with the aircraft's maintenance manual. Read the safety precautions and procedures for tire replacement. Ensure that the aircraft is parked on a level surface. This will reduce the risk of accidents. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses.
Gather Required Tools and Materials
Jack and jack pads: To lift the aircraft safely. Tire irons or mounting tools: To remove and install the tire. Torque wrench: To tighten the wheel bolts to the correct torque. New tire: Appropriate for the aircraft and size of the wheel. Tire pressure gauge: To check the tire pressure.
Prepare the Aircraft
Before starting the tire replacement, ensure that the aircraft is in a safe and secure condition. To do this, the following steps should be taken: Secure the aircraft with wheel chocks to prevent unintended movement. Remove any fairings or covers that may obstruct tire replacement.
Lift the Aircraft
Follow the procedures in the maintenance manual to lift the aircraft safely using jacks. Position the jacks under the aircraft at the designated locations. Consult the maintenance manual for the proper jacking points. Use jack pads to protect the aircraft's structure and paint.
Remove the Old Tire
Use a torque wrench to loosen the wheel nuts or bolts slightly while the aircraft is on the ground. Then, fully lift the aircraft using the jacks. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove the wheel fairing or cover. Carefully remove the old tire using tire irons or mounting tools. Inspect the wheel for any damage or wear and clean it before installing the new tire.
Install the New Tire
Lubricate the tire beads with a suitable tire mounting lubricant. Carefully mount the new tire onto the wheel using tire irons or mounting tools. Ensure that the tire beads seat properly in the wheel. Inflate the new tire according to the manufacturer's specifications. Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure that the tire pressure is correct.
Reassemble and Final Checks
Reattach the wheel fairing or cover removed in Step 4. Carefully lower the aircraft by releasing the pressure on the jacks. Remove the jack stands and pads. Before each flight, perform a final visual inspection of the new tire. Ensure that the tire pressure, tread direction, and overall condition are within acceptable limits.
Q1: How are airplane tires different from car tires?
A1: Airplane tires are different from car tires in many ways. First, airplane tires have a high-speed rating because they can land and take off from aircraft at high speeds. Secondly, airplane tires have a large load capacity compared to car tires. They can carry the entire weight of the aircraft. Another difference is that airplane tires have a tread pattern that reduces the risk of hydroplaning during takeoff and landing. Finally, airplane tires are made of durable rubber that is heat and wear resistant.
Q2: How do pilots know when to change tires?
A2: Pilots have several indicators that tell them when to change the aircraft tires. First, they conduct a visual inspection of the tires before each flight. During the inspection, they check for signs of wear, damage, and low pressure. Secondly, aircraft tire pressure monitoring systems can alert pilots to low pressure or uneven wear. Finally, pilots track the tire's tread depth and replace the tires when the depth reaches the minimum allowable level.
Q3: Can pilots change tires themselves?
A3: Changing aircraft tires is a complex and dangerous task that requires special knowledge, skills, and tools. Therefore, pilots cannot change the tires themselves. They entrust this work to qualified maintenance personnel.
Q4: How often are airplane tires checked for wear and damage?
A4: Airplane tires are inspected before and after each flight. In addition, they undergo periodic inspections according to the maintenance schedule. During such inspections, qualified specialists check the condition of the tires, measure the tread depth, and assess the pressure and visual signs of damage or wear.
Q5: What are the most common airplane tire problems?
A5: The most common problems with aircraft tires are wear, cuts, and low pressure. Wear is usually caused by frequent landings and takeoffs. Cuts can result from foreign objects on runways or during ground operations. Low pressure can be caused by natural air leakage or damage to the tire carcass.