Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Division Turbofan Engines, 69369-69372 [2014-27354]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 225 / Friday, November 21, 2014 / Rules and Regulations manner and form specified by the FDIC. Beginning January 1, 2016, a $10 billion to $50 billion covered bank must report to the FDIC and to the Board on or before July 31 the results of the stress test in the manner and form specified by the FDIC. (2) Over $50 billion covered bank. Prior to January 1, 2016, an over $50 billion covered bank must report to the FDIC and to the Board, on or before January 5, the results of the stress test in the manner and form specified by the FDIC. Beginning January 1, 2016, an over $50 billion covered bank must report to the FDIC and to the Board, on or before April 5, the results of the stress test in the manner and form specified by the FDIC. * * * * * ■ 6. Revise § 325. 207(a) to read as follows: rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES § 325.207 results. Publication of stress test 14:49 Nov 20, 2014 Jkt 235001 Dated at Washington, DC, this 18th day of November 2014. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. By order of the Board of Directors. Robert E. Feldman, Executive Secretary. [FR Doc. 2014–27610 Filed 11–20–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6714–01–P (a) Publication date—(1) $10 billion to $50 billion covered bank. (i) Prior to January 1, 2016, a $10 billion to $50 billion covered bank must publish a summary of the results of its annual stress test in the period starting June 15 and ending June 30 (for the stress test cycle beginning October 1, 2014). (ii) Beginning January 1, 2016, a $10 billion to $50 billion covered bank must publish a summary of the results of its annual stress test in the period starting October 15 and ending October 31 (for the stress test cycle beginning January 1, 2016 and for all stress test cycles thereafter). (2) Over $50 billion covered bank. (i) Prior to January 1, 2016, an over $50 billion covered bank must publish a summary of the results of its annual stress tests in the period starting March 15 and ending March 31 (for the stress test cycle beginning October 1, 2014). (ii) Beginning January 1, 2016, an over $50 billion covered bank must publish a summary of the results of its annual stress tests in the period starting June 15 and ending July 15 (for the stress test cycle beginning January 1 2016, and for all stress test cycles thereafter) provided: (A) Unless the Corporation determines otherwise, if the over $50 billion covered bank is a consolidated subsidiary of a bank holding company or savings and loan holding company subject to supervisory stress tests conducted by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System under 12 CFR part 252, then, within the June 15 to July 15 period, such covered bank may not publish the required summary of its annual stress test earlier than the date that the Board of Governors of the VerDate Sep<11>2014 Federal Reserve System publishes the supervisory stress test results of the covered bank’s parent holding company. (B) If the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System publishes the supervisory stress test results of the covered bank’s parent holding company prior to June 15, then such covered bank may publish its stress test results prior to June 15, but no later than July 15, through actual publication by the covered bank or through publication by the parent holding company under paragraph (b) of this section. * * * * * DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0072; Directorate Identifier 2013–NE–04–AD; Amendment 39– 18017; AD 2014–23–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Division Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2013–15– 09 for all Pratt & Whitney Division (PW) PW4074, PW4074D, PW4077, PW4077D, PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090–3 turbofan engine models with certain second-stage high-pressure turbine (HPT) air seals installed. AD 2013–15–09 required initial and repetitive inspections for cracks in second-stage HPT air seals. This new AD expands the applicability of AD 2013–15–09 to include additional part numbers (P/Ns), requires removal of the mating hardware if the second-stage HPT air seal is found with a throughcrack, and adds a mandatory terminating action. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in the original location on two additional P/Ns and reports of through-cracks in a new location in the second-stage HPT air seal. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the second-stage HPT air seal, which could lead to uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 69369 This AD is effective December 26, 2014. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 17, 2013 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013). ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Pratt & Whitney Division, 400 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06108; phone: (860) 565– 8770; fax: (860) 565–4503. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7125. DATES: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2013– 0072; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: JoAnn Theriault, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7105; fax: 781–238– 7199; email: jo-ann.theriault@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2013–15–09, Amendment 39–17525 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013), (‘‘AD 2013–15–09’’). AD 2013–15–09 applied to all PW PW4074, PW4074D, PW4077, PW4077D, PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090–3 turbofan engine models with certain second-stage HPT air seals installed. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on June 5, 2014 (79 FR 32500). The NPRM was prompted by reports of through-cracks in a different location on a second-stage HPT air seal, and reports of cracking in the original location in two additional second-stage HPT air seals. Pratt & Whitney developed a redesigned second-stage E:\FR\FM\21NOR1.SGM 21NOR1 69370 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 225 / Friday, November 21, 2014 / Rules and Regulations HPT air seal that corrects the cracking condition in both locations. The NPRM proposed to require initial and repetitive inspections for cracks in an expanded population of second-stage HPT air seals, and removal of air seals that fail inspection. The NPRM also proposed to require removal of the mating hardware if the second-stage HPT air seal is found with a throughcrack, and a mandatory terminating action to the repetitive inspection requirements. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79 FR 32500, June 5, 2014) and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Correct P/N All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines, United Airlines (UA), and PW requested that we correct the reference in the NPRM (79 FR 32500, June 5, 2014) to the P/N for the second-stage HPT air seal from 50L041 to 54L041. We agree. We corrected the reference to the second-stage HPT air seal P/N in this AD. rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES Request To Include Air Seal Detail P/N UA requested that we include the P/ N for the air seal detail in this AD. UA has observed instances where the air seal detail, P/N 54L043, is shown as the P/N for the second-stage HPT air seal. We disagree. The second-stage HPT air seal is identified as P/N 54L041. It includes air seal detail, P/N 54L043. This AD applies to the entire secondstage HPT air seal, including all of its details. We did not change this AD. Request To Change Compliance Time ANA, PW, and UA requested that the compliance interval in paragraph (e)(2)(i) of the NPRM (79 FR 32500, June 5, 2014) be increased from 100 cyclesin-service (CIS) to 1,000 CIS. The commenters indicated that this AD should be consistent with AD 2013–15– 09, which specifies that the eddy current inspection (ECI) or initial fluorescent-penetrant inspection (FPI) should be performed within 1,000 cycles after the effective date of the AD. We agree. Performing an ECI or initial FPI within 1,000 cycles of September 17, 2013, the effective date of AD 2013– 15–09, maintains an acceptable level of safety. We changed paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this AD to read: ‘‘Perform an initial eddy current inspection (ECI) for cracks within 1,000 cycles-in-service after VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:49 Nov 20, 2014 Jkt 235001 September 17, 2013, or before further flight, whichever occurs later.’’ Request To Update Service Information ANA and PW asked that we update the reference to the service information from PW Service Bulletin (SB) No. PW4G–112–A72–332, Revision 2, dated April 9, 2014, to PW SB No. PW4G– 112–A72–332, Revision 3, dated June 25, 2014. We agree. We updated the service information reference in the Related Information paragraph in this AD to reflect the most current revision of SB No. PW4G–112–A72–332. Request To Include First-Stage HPT Air Seals ANA requested that first-stage HPT air seals be added to the list of parts that must be removed in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this AD. ANA indicated that firststage HPT air seals are included in the Table of Parts in PW SB No. PW4G– 112–72–332. This SB lists parts that must be removed from service if a circumferential crack of any length is found propagated through the web of the forward flange outer diameter of the second-stage HPT air seal. We disagree. If a crack is found in the second-stage HPT air seal, then the life of mating hardware is adversely affected to the point that the mating hardware must be removed. The first-stage HPT air seal is not a life-limited part like the mating hardware we require to be removed if a crack is found. The firststage HPT air seal, therefore, may be retained unless it is found damaged in the course of removing the rest of the mating hardware. We did not change this AD. Request To Develop Tracking Process for Parts Being Removed From Service UA requested that this AD consider record-keeping for the results of the FPI for second-stage HPT air seals that are being removed from service. UA commented that inspecting parts being removed from service is not common practice and that the burden of showing compliance to this AD rests with the operator and appropriate paper records need to be maintained. While the commenter did not request a specific change to this AD, we regard the comment as a reference to the lack of a standard industry practice for inspecting parts that are being removed from service. This refers to the secondstage HPT air seals, P/N 54L041, which are subject to an FPI after removal from service. We partially agree. We agree that inspecting parts removed from service for their impact on other parts is not PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 common practice. However, operators must maintain adequate records of the maintenance they perform to show that the product has been properly maintained and is eligible for return to service as airworthy. We disagree that we need to impose additional record keeping requirements on operators to ensure that they comply with their obligation to perform maintenance properly. It is up to each operator to establish its own record-keeping process. We did not change this AD. Request To Develop Reporting and Tracking Processes for Spare Parts UA indicated the need for a procedure for determining the serviceability of spare parts, i.e., first-stage HPT hubs, second-stage HPT hubs, and secondstage HPT blade retaining plates, that may have been mated previously to a cracked second-stage HPT air seal. UA noted that the continued serviceability of these spare parts depends on the result of the inspection of the secondstage HPT air seal that the parts were mated to while in service. UA would like procedures established to identify, tag, and mark these spare parts. UA noted that such procedures are not standardized within industry. UA also suggested that PW SB No. PW4G–112– A72–330 be revised to add some kind of marking to notate serviceable spare parts. We partially agree. We do not find the need to mandate a procedure to track these spare parts. Each operator should establish its own process for tracking its spare parts. We did not change this AD. We agree, however, that mating hardware previously installed with cracked second-stage HPT air seals is not eligible for installation as airworthy. We changed this AD to establish an installation prohibition to clarify that life-limited parts previously mated to a cracked second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, cannot be reinstalled. We added Installation Prohibition paragraph (f)(2) to this AD, which states: ‘‘After the effective date of this AD, do not install any spare first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, or secondstage HPT blade retaining plate that was previously mated in service to a secondstage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, that was found to have a through-crack in the front forward fillet radius, into any engine.’’ Request To Clarify ECI Requirement ANA asked that we clarify the requirement for an on-wing ECI of second-stage HPT air seals, P/Ns 50L960 and 50L976. The NPRM (79 FR 32500, June 5, 2014) proposed an on-wing ECI E:\FR\FM\21NOR1.SGM 21NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 225 / Friday, November 21, 2014 / Rules and Regulations for second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, only. We disagree. We are not requiring an ECI for second-stage HPT air seals, P/Ns 50L960 and 50L976, because the ECI probe is not compatible with the geometry of those P/Ns. Also, removal of these parts at the next piece-part exposure without interim inspections maintains an acceptable level of safety. We did not change this AD. Agreement With This AD The Boeing Company expressed support for the NPRM (79 FR 32500, June 5, 2014) as proposed. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously. We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 116 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 5 hours to perform the inspection required by this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per hour. We estimate that two engines will also require removal of the first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, and secondstage HPT blade retaining plate. We estimate that parts will cost about $698,920 per engine. Based on these figures, we estimate the total cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $23,420,020. rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES Jkt 235001 Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–15–09, Amendment 39–17525 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013), and adding the following new AD: ■ Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. 14:49 Nov 20, 2014 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. § 39.13 Authority for This Rulemaking VerDate Sep<11>2014 Regulatory Findings We have determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. 2014–23–01 Pratt & Whitney Division: Amendment 39–18017; Docket No. FAA–2013–0072; Directorate Identifier 2013–NE–04–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective December 26, 2014. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2013–15–09, Amendment 39–17525 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Pratt & Whitney Division (PW) PW4074, PW4074D, PW4077, PW4077D, PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090– 3 turbofan engine models with second-stage high-pressure turbine (HPT) air seal, part number (P/N) 54L041, 50L960, or 50L976, installed. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 69371 (d) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by additional reports of cracking in the second-stage HPT air seal. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the second-stage HPT air seal, which could lead to uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. (e) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) At the next piece-part exposure after the effective date of this AD, do the following: (i) Remove from service second-stage HPT air seals, P/Ns 50L960, 50L976, and 54L041. (ii) Perform a fluorescent-penetrant inspection (FPI) of the second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, for a through-crack in the front forward fillet radius. (iii) If a through-crack in the front forward fillet radius is found, remove the first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, and secondstage HPT blade retaining plate from service. Do not reinstall the first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, or second-stage HPT blade retaining plate into any engine. (2) For engines with second-stage HPT air seals, P/N 54L041, installed, perform initial and repetitive inspections for cracks on-wing until the part is removed from the engine as follows: (i) Perform an initial eddy current inspection (ECI) for cracks within 1,000 cycles-in-service after September 17, 2013, or before further flight, whichever occurs later. (ii) Thereafter, repeat the ECI every 1,200 cycles since last inspection, or fewer, depending on the results of the inspection. (iii) Use section 4.0 of the appendix of PW Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. PW4G–112– A72–330, Revision 2, dated July 11, 2013, to perform the inspection and use paragraph 8 of the Accomplishment Instructions of PW ASB No. PW4G–112–A72–330, Revision 2, dated July 11, 2013, to disposition the results of the inspection. (f) Installation Prohibition (1) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, P/N 50L960, or P/N 50L976, into any engine. (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any spare first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, or second-stage HPT blade retaining plate that was previously mated in service to a second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, that was found to have a through-crack in the front forward fillet radius, into any engine. (g) Definitions For the purpose of this AD: (1) Piece-part exposure is when the secondstage HPT air seal is removed from the engine and fully disassembled. (2) A through-crack is a crack that has propagated through the thickness of the part and can be seen on both the inner diameter and outer diameter of the front forward fillet radius. (h) Credit for Previous Actions (1) If you performed an ECI of the secondstage HPT air seal before the effective date of E:\FR\FM\21NOR1.SGM 21NOR1 69372 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 225 / Friday, November 21, 2014 / Rules and Regulations this AD, using PW ASB No. PW4G–112– A72–330, Revision 1, dated February 14, 2013, or an earlier version, you have met the requirements of paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this AD. (2) If you performed an in-shop FPI of the second-stage HPT air seal before the effective date of this AD, you have met the requirements of paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this AD. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Use the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make your request. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@faa.gov. Amendment of Class E Airspace; Lakeport, CA (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Jo-Ann Theriault, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7105; fax: 781–238– 7199; email: jo-ann.theriault@faa.gov. (2) PW Service Bulletin (SB) No. PW4G– 112–72–332, Revision 3, dated June 25, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD, can be obtained from PW, using the contact information in paragraph (k)(3) of this AD. This SB provides guidance on how to replace the second-stage HPT air seal with an air seal that is more resistant to low cycle fatigue cracks. rljohnson on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on September 17, 2013 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013). (i) Pratt & Whitney (PW) Alert Service Bulletin No. PW4G–112–A72–330, Revision 2, dated July 11, 2013. (ii) Reserved. (4) For PW service information identified in this AD, contact Pratt & Whitney Division, 400 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06108; phone: 860–565–8770; fax: 860–565–4503. (5) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7125. (6) You may view this service information at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on October 30, 2014. Colleen M. D’Alessandro, Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–27354 Filed 11–20–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:49 Nov 20, 2014 Jkt 235001 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0309; Airspace Docket No. 14–AWP–3] Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This action amends Class E airspace at Lakeport, CA. Controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate Area Navigation (RNAV) Global Positioning System (GPS) standard instrument approach procedures at Lampson Field. The FAA is taking this action to enhance the safety and management of instrument flight rules (IFR) operations at the airport. DATES: Effective date, 0901 UTC, January 8, 2015. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference action under 1 CFR part 51, subject to the annual revision of FAA Order 7400.9 and publication of conforming amendments. ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.9Y, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at https://www.faa.gov/ air_traffic/publications/. The Order is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/code_of_federalregulations/ibr_locations.html. FAA Order 7400.9, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, is published yearly and effective on September 15. For further information, you can contact the Airspace Policy and Regulations Group, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC, 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Richard Roberts, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Western Service Center, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA, 98057; telephone (425) 203–4517. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: History On July 23, 2014 the FAA published in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend controlled airspace at Lakeport, CA (79 FR 42723). Interested parties were PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 invited to participate in this rulemaking effort by submitting written comments on the proposal to the FAA. One comment from Martin Breunig was received in favor of the proposal. Class E airspace designations are published in paragraph 6005 of FAA Order 7400.9Y, dated August 6, 2014, and effective September 15, 2014, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR Part 71.1. The E airspace designations listed in this document will be published subsequently in this Order. The Rule This action amends Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Part 71 by creating Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface within a 4-mile radius of Lampson Field, Lakeport, CA. Controlled airspace is needed for RNAV (GPS) standard instrument approaches and departures. This action enhances the safety and management of IFR operations at the airport. The FAA has determined this regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which frequent and routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. Therefore, this regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that only affects air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified this rule, when promulgated, does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the U.S. Code. Subtitle 1, Section 106 discusses the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the agency’s authority. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it modifies controlled airspace at Lampson Field, Lakeport, CA. Environmental Review The FAA has determined that this action qualifies for categorical exclusion E:\FR\FM\21NOR1.SGM 21NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 225 (Friday, November 21, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69369-69372]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-27354]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0072; Directorate Identifier 2013-NE-04-AD; 
Amendment 39-18017; AD 2014-23-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Division Turbofan 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2013-15-09 for 
all Pratt & Whitney Division (PW) PW4074, PW4074D, PW4077, PW4077D, 
PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090-3 turbofan engine models with certain 
second-stage high-pressure turbine (HPT) air seals installed. AD 2013-
15-09 required initial and repetitive inspections for cracks in second-
stage HPT air seals. This new AD expands the applicability of AD 2013-
15-09 to include additional part numbers (P/Ns), requires removal of 
the mating hardware if the second-stage HPT air seal is found with a 
through-crack, and adds a mandatory terminating action. This AD was 
prompted by reports of cracking in the original location on two 
additional P/Ns and reports of through-cracks in a new location in the 
second-stage HPT air seal. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of 
the second-stage HPT air seal, which could lead to uncontained engine 
failure and damage to the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective December 26, 2014.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 
17, 2013 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013).

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Pratt 
& Whitney Division, 400 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06108; phone: (860) 
565-8770; fax: (860) 565-4503. You may view this service information at 
the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, 
Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call (781) 238-7125.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2013-
0072; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-
5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jo-Ann Theriault, Aerospace Engineer, 
Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 
New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7105; 
fax: 781-238-7199; email: jo-ann.theriault@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 2013-15-09, Amendment 39-17525 (78 FR 49111, 
August 13, 2013), (``AD 2013-15-09''). AD 2013-15-09 applied to all PW 
PW4074, PW4074D, PW4077, PW4077D, PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090-3 
turbofan engine models with certain second-stage HPT air seals 
installed. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on June 5, 2014 
(79 FR 32500). The NPRM was prompted by reports of through-cracks in a 
different location on a second-stage HPT air seal, and reports of 
cracking in the original location in two additional second-stage HPT 
air seals. Pratt & Whitney developed a redesigned second-stage

[[Page 69370]]

HPT air seal that corrects the cracking condition in both locations.
    The NPRM proposed to require initial and repetitive inspections for 
cracks in an expanded population of second-stage HPT air seals, and 
removal of air seals that fail inspection. The NPRM also proposed to 
require removal of the mating hardware if the second-stage HPT air seal 
is found with a through-crack, and a mandatory terminating action to 
the repetitive inspection requirements. We are issuing this AD to 
correct the unsafe condition on these products.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79 
FR 32500, June 5, 2014) and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Correct P/N

    All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines, United Airlines (UA), and 
PW requested that we correct the reference in the NPRM (79 FR 32500, 
June 5, 2014) to the P/N for the second-stage HPT air seal from 50L041 
to 54L041.
    We agree. We corrected the reference to the second-stage HPT air 
seal P/N in this AD.

Request To Include Air Seal Detail P/N

    UA requested that we include the P/N for the air seal detail in 
this AD. UA has observed instances where the air seal detail, P/N 
54L043, is shown as the P/N for the second-stage HPT air seal.
    We disagree. The second-stage HPT air seal is identified as P/N 
54L041. It includes air seal detail, P/N 54L043. This AD applies to the 
entire second-stage HPT air seal, including all of its details. We did 
not change this AD.

Request To Change Compliance Time

    ANA, PW, and UA requested that the compliance interval in paragraph 
(e)(2)(i) of the NPRM (79 FR 32500, June 5, 2014) be increased from 100 
cycles-in-service (CIS) to 1,000 CIS. The commenters indicated that 
this AD should be consistent with AD 2013-15-09, which specifies that 
the eddy current inspection (ECI) or initial fluorescent-penetrant 
inspection (FPI) should be performed within 1,000 cycles after the 
effective date of the AD.
    We agree. Performing an ECI or initial FPI within 1,000 cycles of 
September 17, 2013, the effective date of AD 2013-15-09, maintains an 
acceptable level of safety. We changed paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this AD 
to read: ``Perform an initial eddy current inspection (ECI) for cracks 
within 1,000 cycles-in-service after September 17, 2013, or before 
further flight, whichever occurs later.''

Request To Update Service Information

    ANA and PW asked that we update the reference to the service 
information from PW Service Bulletin (SB) No. PW4G-112-A72-332, 
Revision 2, dated April 9, 2014, to PW SB No. PW4G-112-A72-332, 
Revision 3, dated June 25, 2014.
    We agree. We updated the service information reference in the 
Related Information paragraph in this AD to reflect the most current 
revision of SB No. PW4G-112-A72-332.

Request To Include First-Stage HPT Air Seals

    ANA requested that first-stage HPT air seals be added to the list 
of parts that must be removed in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this AD. ANA 
indicated that first-stage HPT air seals are included in the Table of 
Parts in PW SB No. PW4G-112-72-332. This SB lists parts that must be 
removed from service if a circumferential crack of any length is found 
propagated through the web of the forward flange outer diameter of the 
second-stage HPT air seal.
    We disagree. If a crack is found in the second-stage HPT air seal, 
then the life of mating hardware is adversely affected to the point 
that the mating hardware must be removed. The first-stage HPT air seal 
is not a life-limited part like the mating hardware we require to be 
removed if a crack is found. The first-stage HPT air seal, therefore, 
may be retained unless it is found damaged in the course of removing 
the rest of the mating hardware. We did not change this AD.

Request To Develop Tracking Process for Parts Being Removed From 
Service

    UA requested that this AD consider record-keeping for the results 
of the FPI for second-stage HPT air seals that are being removed from 
service. UA commented that inspecting parts being removed from service 
is not common practice and that the burden of showing compliance to 
this AD rests with the operator and appropriate paper records need to 
be maintained. While the commenter did not request a specific change to 
this AD, we regard the comment as a reference to the lack of a standard 
industry practice for inspecting parts that are being removed from 
service. This refers to the second-stage HPT air seals, P/N 54L041, 
which are subject to an FPI after removal from service.
    We partially agree. We agree that inspecting parts removed from 
service for their impact on other parts is not common practice. 
However, operators must maintain adequate records of the maintenance 
they perform to show that the product has been properly maintained and 
is eligible for return to service as airworthy. We disagree that we 
need to impose additional record keeping requirements on operators to 
ensure that they comply with their obligation to perform maintenance 
properly. It is up to each operator to establish its own record-keeping 
process. We did not change this AD.

Request To Develop Reporting and Tracking Processes for Spare Parts

    UA indicated the need for a procedure for determining the 
serviceability of spare parts, i.e., first-stage HPT hubs, second-stage 
HPT hubs, and second-stage HPT blade retaining plates, that may have 
been mated previously to a cracked second-stage HPT air seal. UA noted 
that the continued serviceability of these spare parts depends on the 
result of the inspection of the second-stage HPT air seal that the 
parts were mated to while in service. UA would like procedures 
established to identify, tag, and mark these spare parts. UA noted that 
such procedures are not standardized within industry. UA also suggested 
that PW SB No. PW4G-112-A72-330 be revised to add some kind of marking 
to notate serviceable spare parts.
    We partially agree. We do not find the need to mandate a procedure 
to track these spare parts. Each operator should establish its own 
process for tracking its spare parts. We did not change this AD.
    We agree, however, that mating hardware previously installed with 
cracked second-stage HPT air seals is not eligible for installation as 
airworthy. We changed this AD to establish an installation prohibition 
to clarify that life-limited parts previously mated to a cracked 
second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, cannot be reinstalled. We added 
Installation Prohibition paragraph (f)(2) to this AD, which states: 
``After the effective date of this AD, do not install any spare first-
stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, or second-stage HPT blade 
retaining plate that was previously mated in service to a second-stage 
HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, that was found to have a through-crack in the 
front forward fillet radius, into any engine.''

Request To Clarify ECI Requirement

    ANA asked that we clarify the requirement for an on-wing ECI of 
second-stage HPT air seals, P/Ns 50L960 and 50L976. The NPRM (79 FR 
32500, June 5, 2014) proposed an on-wing ECI

[[Page 69371]]

for second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, only.
    We disagree. We are not requiring an ECI for second-stage HPT air 
seals, P/Ns 50L960 and 50L976, because the ECI probe is not compatible 
with the geometry of those P/Ns. Also, removal of these parts at the 
next piece-part exposure without interim inspections maintains an 
acceptable level of safety. We did not change this AD.

Agreement With This AD

    The Boeing Company expressed support for the NPRM (79 FR 32500, 
June 5, 2014) as proposed.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously. We also determined that 
these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or 
increase the scope of this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 116 engines installed on airplanes 
of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 5 hours to 
perform the inspection required by this AD. The average labor rate is 
$85 per hour. We estimate that two engines will also require removal of 
the first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, and second-stage HPT 
blade retaining plate. We estimate that parts will cost about $698,920 
per engine. Based on these figures, we estimate the total cost of this 
AD on U.S. operators to be $23,420,020.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this AD will not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a 
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between 
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent 
that it justifies making a regulatory distinction, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2013-15-09, Amendment 39-17525 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013), and 
adding the following new AD:

2014-23-01 Pratt & Whitney Division: Amendment 39-18017; Docket No. 
FAA-2013-0072; Directorate Identifier 2013-NE-04-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective December 26, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2013-15-09, Amendment 39-17525 (78 FR 
49111, August 13, 2013).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Pratt & Whitney Division (PW) PW4074, 
PW4074D, PW4077, PW4077D, PW4084D, PW4090, and PW4090-3 turbofan 
engine models with second-stage high-pressure turbine (HPT) air 
seal, part number (P/N) 54L041, 50L960, or 50L976, installed.

(d) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by additional reports of cracking in the 
second-stage HPT air seal. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure 
of the second-stage HPT air seal, which could lead to uncontained 
engine failure and damage to the airplane.

(e) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.
    (1) At the next piece-part exposure after the effective date of 
this AD, do the following:
    (i) Remove from service second-stage HPT air seals, P/Ns 50L960, 
50L976, and 54L041.
    (ii) Perform a fluorescent-penetrant inspection (FPI) of the 
second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, for a through-crack in the 
front forward fillet radius.
    (iii) If a through-crack in the front forward fillet radius is 
found, remove the first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, and 
second-stage HPT blade retaining plate from service. Do not 
reinstall the first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, or second-
stage HPT blade retaining plate into any engine.
    (2) For engines with second-stage HPT air seals, P/N 54L041, 
installed, perform initial and repetitive inspections for cracks on-
wing until the part is removed from the engine as follows:
    (i) Perform an initial eddy current inspection (ECI) for cracks 
within 1,000 cycles-in-service after September 17, 2013, or before 
further flight, whichever occurs later.
    (ii) Thereafter, repeat the ECI every 1,200 cycles since last 
inspection, or fewer, depending on the results of the inspection.
    (iii) Use section 4.0 of the appendix of PW Alert Service 
Bulletin (ASB) No. PW4G-112-A72-330, Revision 2, dated July 11, 
2013, to perform the inspection and use paragraph 8 of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of PW ASB No. PW4G-112-A72-330, Revision 
2, dated July 11, 2013, to disposition the results of the 
inspection.

(f) Installation Prohibition

    (1) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any 
second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, P/N 50L960, or P/N 50L976, 
into any engine.
    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any 
spare first-stage HPT hub, second-stage HPT hub, or second-stage HPT 
blade retaining plate that was previously mated in service to a 
second-stage HPT air seal, P/N 54L041, that was found to have a 
through-crack in the front forward fillet radius, into any engine.

(g) Definitions

    For the purpose of this AD:
    (1) Piece-part exposure is when the second-stage HPT air seal is 
removed from the engine and fully disassembled.
    (2) A through-crack is a crack that has propagated through the 
thickness of the part and can be seen on both the inner diameter and 
outer diameter of the front forward fillet radius.

(h) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) If you performed an ECI of the second-stage HPT air seal 
before the effective date of

[[Page 69372]]

this AD, using PW ASB No. PW4G-112-A72-330, Revision 1, dated 
February 14, 2013, or an earlier version, you have met the 
requirements of paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this AD.
    (2) If you performed an in-shop FPI of the second-stage HPT air 
seal before the effective date of this AD, you have met the 
requirements of paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this AD.

(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    The Manager, Engine Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Use the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make your 
request. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@faa.gov.

(j) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Jo-Ann 
Theriault, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, 
Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7105; fax: 781-238-7199; email: 
jo-ann.theriault@faa.gov.
    (2) PW Service Bulletin (SB) No. PW4G-112-72-332, Revision 3, 
dated June 25, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in this 
AD, can be obtained from PW, using the contact information in 
paragraph (k)(3) of this AD. This SB provides guidance on how to 
replace the second-stage HPT air seal with an air seal that is more 
resistant to low cycle fatigue cracks.

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
September 17, 2013 (78 FR 49111, August 13, 2013).
    (i) Pratt & Whitney (PW) Alert Service Bulletin No. PW4G-112-
A72-330, Revision 2, dated July 11, 2013.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (4) For PW service information identified in this AD, contact 
Pratt & Whitney Division, 400 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06108; 
phone: 860-565-8770; fax: 860-565-4503.
    (5) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & 
Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, 
MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 781-238-7125.
    (6) You may view this service information at the National 
Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the 
availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: 
https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on October 30, 2014.
Colleen M. D'Alessandro,
Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-27354 Filed 11-20-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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