Aerospace repair and overhaul

Citation

(1999), "Aerospace repair and overhaul", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 71 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.1999.12771bad.004

Aerospace repair and overhaul

Aerospace repair and overhaul

Keywords Aerospace, Blasting, Cleaning, Vixen

Chase Aerospace, recently installed a Vixen Jetair blast cabinet for use on their refurbishment projects.

Cleaning and stripping down components is a major part of their overall service. Paul Saunders, Project Engineer, decided to improve their current method of solvent cleaning as it was labour intensive and time-consuming, owing not only to the time taken to actually clean but also to the time taken to set up the cleaning environment. The hazardous fumes given off by the liquid chemical they were using were creating an environment unsuitable to work in.

The Vixen Jetair reportedly has enabled Chase Aerospace to reduce the set-up time of the cleaning process. The actual precision of the cabinet and the ease of use for the operator were also highlighted by Paul Saunders as major benefits. He states "We get excellent results every time with the Vixen cabinet, the machine is easily accessible, the lighting inside the cabinet is second to none and the turn-table ensures we can get into every corner of these complex units."

They use a plastic media in the cabinet designed to lightly blast the component without damaging the soft alloy but gently removing any carbon deposits. This leaves a dry residue finish, ideal for applying the re-protective coating that follows.

Chase Aerospace repair and overhaul civil aircraft components, in particular APUs (Auxiliary Power Units) and CSDs (Constant Speed Drives). Each unit is stripped down into the different components and each and every part is inspected thoroughly. They are FAA and CAA approved, clear evidence of their commitment to quality and professional service.

For further information contact Vixen Surface Treatments. Tel: +44 (0) 1642 769333; Fax: +44 (0) 1642 769441.