Aiyura Aircraft Maintenance Engineering School

Aeroplane One Assignment Questions.

The assignment and the second semester assignment accounts for 30% of your final grading and as
such I expect you to give your best in completing the assignment.

Marks allocated for each questions are indicated at the end of each question in brackets which will
give you an idea as to the depth and content of your answers. Generally speaking the more depth
and content you give in your answers the better marks you are likely to earn.

NAME: Rance Ndranoh Total Questions – 14. Total Marks – 50.

-Lift on an airplane is generated primarily through the Bernoulli's principle and Newton's third
law of motion. The design features of an airplane, such as the shape of the wings (airfoil), angle of
attack, and engine thrust, all play a crucial role in creating lift.

When an airplane moves through the air, the shape of the wings causes the air above the wing to
move faster than the air below it. According to Bernoulli's principle, this difference in air speed
creates a lower pressure above the wing compared to below it, resulting in lift. Additionally, the
angle of attack, which is the angle between the wing and the oncoming air, also affects the lift
generated.

Furthermore, Newton's third law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite
reaction. As the wings deflect air downwards to create lift, an equal and opposite force pushes
the airplane upwards.

In the study of aerodynamics, physical conditions such as air density, airspeed, and wing shape
are crucial factors in determining the amount of lift generated. By understanding these principles
and optimizing the design features of an airplane, engineers can ensure that lift is efficiently
generated, making flight possible.

Q2. We know air has a lot to do with aircraft and engine performance. Describe how air
pressure,density, temperature and altitude affect aircraft performance. [4-marks]

• Air pressure, density, temperature, and altitude all play significant roles in affecting
aircraft performance.

-Air pressure decreases with altitude, which means that at higher altitudes, the air pressure is
lower. This decrease in air pressure affects the engine performance as it reduces the amount of
oxygen available for combustion. As a result, the engine may produce less power at higher
altitudes, impacting the aircraft’s performance.

-Air density also decreases with altitude, which affects lift generation. Lower air density means
that the wings have less air to push against, resulting in reduced lift. This can impact the aircraft’s
ability to climb, maneuver, and maintain stability.

-Temperature also affects air density, as warmer air is less dense than colder air. In warmer
temperatures, the air molecules are more spread out, leading to lower air density. This can
impact engine performance and lift generation, similar to the effects of altitude.

-Altitude plays a crucial role in aircraft performance as it directly affects air pressure, density, and
temperature. Higher altitudes present challenges such as reduced engine power, decreased lift,
and changes in aerodynamic performance. Pilots and engineers must consider these factors when
planning flights and optimizing aircraft performance.
Q3. Name the three [3] types of drags imposed on an aircraft during fight.

[2marks]

1. Parasite drag: This type of drag is caused by the aircraft's shape and surface

area interacting with the air. It includes form drag (caused by the shape of

the aircraft), skin friction drag (caused by the friction between the air and

the aircraft's surface), and interference drag (caused by the interaction of

airflow between different parts of the aircraft).

2. Induced drag: Induced drag is generated as a byproduct of lift production.

When an aircraft generates lift, vortices are created at the wingtips, leading

to a downward airflow that results in induced drag.

3. Wave drag: Wave drag occurs at transonic and supersonic speeds when

shockwaves form around the aircraft due to the compression of air. This

type of drag can significantly increase as an aircraft approaches the speed of

sound.

Q4. Give a brief description of what is an ‘angle of attack’ [AOA]. [2 -marks]

-The angle of attack (AOA) is the angle between the chord line of an airfoil (such as a

wing) and the oncoming airflow. It is a crucial parameter in aerodynamics as it

determines how the air flows over the wing and affects the lift and drag forces

generated by the aircraft. By adjusting the angle of attack, pilots can control the lift

and overall performance of the aircraft during flight. AOA is typically measured in

degrees and plays a significant role in determining the stall speed and

maneuverability of an aircraft.
Q5. What will be the effect if the smooth laminar relative-wind over the wing which produces
lift isdisturbed by vortices and the air becomes turbulent over the wing? [3 –marks]

-If the smooth laminar relative wind over the wing, which is essential for producing lift, is
disturbed by vortices and the air becomes turbulent over the wing, several effects can be
observed:

1. Decreased lift: Turbulent airflow over the wing disrupts the generation of lift, as the
smooth flow necessary for Bernoulli’s principle to work effectively is disturbed. This can
result in a decrease in overall lift production, potentially affecting the aircraft’s ability to
maintain altitude.

2. Increased drag: Turbulent airflow can also lead to an increase in drag on the aircraft. The
disruption of the airflow over the wing can cause an increase in parasite drag, making it
more difficult for the aircraft to move through the air efficiently.

3. Reduced stability: Turbulent airflow can impact the stability of the aircraft, making it more
challenging for pilots to control the aircraft’s movements. This can lead to difficulties in
maintaining a steady flight path and could potentially affect the safety of the flight.

Overall, turbulent airflow over the wing can have detrimental effects on the aircraft’s
performance, stability, and efficiency in generating lift, highlighting the importance of maintaining
smooth laminar airflow for optimal flight conditions.

Q6. Aircraft are exposed to a lot of stresses most of the time during their service life. Name at
least 4of these stresses. [2-marks]

-During their service life, aircraft are exposed to various stresses, including:

1. Aerodynamic forces: Aircraft experience aerodynamic forces such as lift, drag, and thrust
during flight, which can put stress on the structure of the aircraft.

2. Structural loads: The weight of the aircraft, as well as external factors like turbulence,
maneuvers, and landings, can subject the aircraft’s structure to various loads, including
bending, torsion, and compression.

3. Thermal stresses: Temperature changes during flight, especially during takeoff and landing,
can cause thermal expansion and contraction, leading to thermal stresses on the aircraft’s
components.

4. Fatigue: Over time, repeated cycles of pressurization and depressurization, as well as

-Today’s aircraft fuselage construction typically involves a semi-monocoque design. In this design,
the skin of the aircraft fuselage carries a significant portion of the structural load, in addition to
internal structural members.

Four common fuselage structural members include:

1. Stringers: Longitudinal members running parallel to the fuselage skin that provide additional
strength and stiffness to the structure.

2. Frames: Transverse members that run perpendicular to the stringers and help maintain the
shape of the fuselage.

3. Longerons: Longitudinal members that run along the length of the fuselage and provide
structural support.

4. Bulkheads: Vertical partitions that divide the fuselage into compartments and provide
structural support and rigidity.

Q8. Give a general description of a closed-ce tree hydraulic system on an aircraft. [6-marks]

-A closed-center hydraulic system on an aircraft is a type of hydraulic system where the hydraulic fluid
is contained within a closed loop or circuit. In this system, the hydraulic pump continuously circulates
the fluid through the system, allowing for precise control and regulation of hydraulic pressure.

In a closed-center hydraulic system, the hydraulic fluid is stored in a reservoir and is pressurized by
the hydraulic pump. The fluid is then directed to various hydraulic actuators, such as hydraulic
cylinders or motors, to perform tasks like extending landing gear, controlling flight surfaces, or
operating brakes.

One of the key advantages of a closed-center hydraulic system is its ability to maintain a constant
pressure level, even when multiple hydraulic actuators are in use simultaneously. This ensures
consistent and reliable operation of the aircraft’s hydraulic systems.

Overall, a closed-center hydraulic system on an aircraft provides efficient and reliable power
transmission for various critical functions, contributing to the safe and effective operation of the
aircraft.
 Q9. Give at least four [4] properties and characteristics for an ideal hydraulic fluid to possess
andname the two [2] types of hydraulic fluids used. [3-marks]

-Four properties and characteristics of an ideal hydraulic fluid include:

1. Viscosity: The hydraulic fluid should have a consistent viscosity across a wide range of
temperatures to ensure proper flow and lubrication within the hydraulic system.
2. Thermal stability: The fluid should be able to withstand high temperatures without
breaking down or forming deposits that could clog the system.
3. Corrosion resistance: The hydraulic fluid should protect the components of the hydraulic
system from corrosion and wear.
4. Compatibility: The fluid should be compatible with the materials used in the hydraulic
system to prevent damage or degradation.

-The two types of hydraulic fluids commonly used are:

1. Mineral oil-based hydraulic fluids: These fluids are derived from petroleum and are cost-
effective. They offer good lubrication properties and are suitable for a wide range of
hydraulic systems.
2. Synthetic hydraulic fluids: These fluids are chemically synthesized and offer superior
performance in terms of temperature stability, oxidation resistance, and compatibility
with different materials. They are often used in high-performance hydraulic systems
where standard mineral oil-based fluids may not meet the requirements.

Q10. Give the two [2] main purposes of the landing gear of an aircraft on the ground.

[3marks]

-The two main purposes of the landing gear of an aircraft on the ground are:

1. Support: The landing gear provides support to the aircraft while it is on the ground, helping to
distribute the weight of the aircraft evenly and prevent damage to the fuselage, wings, and
other components.

2. Taxiing and steering: The landing gear allows the aircraft to move on the ground, facilitating
taxiing to and from the runway and providing steering control during ground operations. This
helps the pilot maneuver the aircraft safely on the ground before takeoff and after landing.
 Q11. Give the names of the of two common landing gear arrangements. [2-marks]

-The two common landing gear arrangements are:

1. Tricycle landing gear: In this arrangement, the aircraft has a single wheel in the front (nose

wheel) and two wheels towards the rear (main gear). This configuration provides stability

during takeoff and landing, making it commonly used in modern aircraft.

2. Tailwheel landing gear (conventional landing gear): In this arrangement, the aircraft has a

single wheel at the tail and two wheels at the front (main gear). This configuration was more

common in older aircraft and is still used in some smaller aircraft, vintage planes, and

taildraggers.

Q12. How is the landing shock and load absorbed on a landing gear type that has the oleo-strut

design? [6-marks]

-In an aircraft landing gear with an oleo-strut design, the landing shock and load are absorbed
through the use of a hydraulic system within the oleo-pneumatic strut. The oleo strut consists
of a cylinder filled with hydraulic fluid and a piston that moves within the cylinder.

When the aircraft lands, the landing gear compresses, causing the piston to move up into the
cylinder. The hydraulic fluid within the cylinder is forced through small orifices, creating a
damping effect that absorbs the shock and load of the landing. This hydraulic damping system
helps to cushion the impact and prevent excessive stress on the aircraft structure and
passengers.

Overall, the oleo-strut design in the landing gear of an aircraft helps to absorb and dissipate
the landing shock and load, providing a smoother and safer landing experience.
 Q13. Give names of the two types of fuel [2] used on aircraft. [2-marks]

-The two types of fuel commonly used on aircraft are:

1. Jet fuel: Jet fuel is a type of aviation fuel specifically designed for use in gas turbine engines,
such as those found on most commercial and military aircraft. It is a refined form of kerosene
and is classified into different grades, such as Jet A, Jet A-1, and Jet B, based on specific
requirements and additives.

2. Avgas: Avgas, short for aviation gasoline, is a type of fuel used in piston-engine aircraft. It is
different from jet fuel and is typically a high-octane gasoline specially formulated for aviation
use. Avgas is commonly used in smaller general aviation aircraft.

Q14. Give a description as to how fuel is drawn from the fuel tank and through the various parts
ofthe fuel system on its journey to the aircraft engine. In other words describe a general or basic
fuelsystem. You can use drawings and illustrations if you wish. [6-marks]

-In a typical aircraft fuel system, fuel is drawn from the fuel tank and delivered to the aircraft
engine through a series of components. Here is a general description of how fuel flows through
the fuel system:

1. Fuel Tank: The fuel tank is where the fuel is stored on the aircraft. It is typically located in
the wings or fuselage of the aircraft.

2. Fuel Pump: The fuel pump is responsible for drawing fuel from the fuel tank and delivering
it to the engine. It ensures a consistent flow of fuel to the engine.

3. Fuel Filter: Before reaching the engine, the fuel passes through a fuel filter to remove any
contaminants or impurities that could potentially damage the engine.

4. Fuel Lines: The fuel then travels through fuel lines, which are typically made of metal or
flexible hoses, to transport the fuel from the fuel tank to the engine.

5. Fuel Control Unit: The fuel control unit regulates the flow of fuel to the engine based on
the engine’s requirements, such as throttle position and altitude.

6. Fuel Injector: In the case of a fuel-injected engine, the fuel injector sprays the fuel into the
engine’s combustion chamber for ignition.

7. Combustion Chamber: Once the fuel is injected into the combustion chamber, it mixes
with air and is ignited to produce the necessary power for the aircraft engine.

This general overview outlines the basic components and flow of fuel through an aircraft fuel
system. Additional components and systems may be present in more complex aircraft
configurations
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