Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney JT8D-209, -217, -217A, -217C, and -219 Series Turbofan Engines, 38052-38056 [2010-16010]
Download as PDF
38052
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 126 / Thursday, July 1, 2010 / Proposed Rules
[FR Doc. 2010–14750 Filed 6–30–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0452; Directorate
Identifier 98–ANE–80–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pratt &
Whitney JT8D–209, –217, –217A,
–217C, and –219 Series Turbofan
Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to
supersede an existing airworthiness
directive (AD) for Pratt & Whitney (PW)
JT8D–209, –217, –217A, –217C, and
–219 series turbofan engines. That AD
requires initial and repetitive torque
inspections of the 3rd stage and 4th
stage low-pressure turbine (LPT) blades
for shroud notch wear and replacement
of the blade if wear limits are exceeded.
That AD also requires replacing LPT-toexhaust case bolts and nuts with bolts
and nuts made of Tinidur material. This
proposed AD would require the same
actions but would require replacement
of the LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and
nuts with longer bolts made of Tinidur
material, with nuts made of Tinidur
material, and installation of crushable
sleeve spacers on the bolts. This
proposed AD results from nine reports
of failure of Tinidur material LPT-toexhaust case bolts since AD 2005–02–03
became effective. We are proposing this
AD to prevent turbine blade failures that
could result in uncontained engine
debris and damage to the airplane.
DATES: We must receive any comments
on this proposed AD by August 30,
2010.
Use one of the following
addresses to comment on this proposed
AD.
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Mail: Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
Washington, DC 20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS
ADDRESSES:
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:20 Jun 30, 2010
Jkt 220001
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevin Dickert, Aerospace Engineer,
Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine
& Propeller Directorate, 12 New England
Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803;
e-mail: kevin.dickert@faa.gov; telephone
(781) 238–7117; fax (781) 238–7199.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to send any written
relevant data, views, or arguments
regarding this proposal. Send your
comments to an address listed under
ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
2010–0452; Directorate Identifier 98–
ANE–80–AD’’ in the subject line of your
comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of the proposed AD. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend the
proposed AD in light of those
comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this proposed AD.
Using the search function of the Web
site, anyone can find and read the
comments in any of our dockets,
including, if provided, the name of the
individual who sent the comment (or
signed the comment on behalf of an
association, business, labor union, etc.).
You may review the DOT’s complete
Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000
(65 FR 19477–78).
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov; or in person at the
Docket Operations office between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this proposed AD, the
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for the Docket Operations
office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is the
same as the Mail address provided in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
Discussion
The FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by superseding AD 2005–02–03,
Amendment 39–13948 (70 FR 3867,
January 27, 2005). That AD requires
PO 00000
Frm 00011
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
torque inspection of the 3rd stage and
4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch
wear and replacement of the blade if
wear limits are exceeded. That AD also
requires replacing LPT-to-exhaust case
bolts and nuts with bolts and nuts made
of Tinidur material. That AD was the
result of reports of 194 blade fractures
since 1991, with 37 of those blade
fractures resulting in LPT case
separation, and three reports of
uncontained 3rd stage and 4th stage LPT
blade failures with cowl penetration.
That condition, if not corrected, could
result in turbine blade failures that
could result in uncontained engine
debris and damage to the airplane.
Actions Since AD 2005–02–03 Was
Issued
Since AD 2005–02–03 was issued, we
received nine reports of failure of
Tinidur material LPT-to-exhaust case
bolts occurring during 3rd and/or 4th
stage blade fracture events. Three of
these events resulted in cowl
penetration. The bolts mandated by AD
2005–02–03 do not provide enough
energy absorption during a blade
fracture event. PW has introduced
longer bolts made of Tinidur and
crushable sleeve spacers that will
increase the energy absorption
capability of the fasteners during a blade
fracture event.
Also since AD 2005–02–03 was
issued, PW revised Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) No. JT8D A6224,
Revision 5, dated June 11, 2004, with
Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed and approved the
technical contents of PW ASB No. JT8D
A6224, Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007.
That ASB describes procedures for
performing torque inspections of the 3rd
and 4th stage turbine blades.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of the Proposed AD
We have evaluated all pertinent
information and identified an unsafe
condition that is likely to exist or
develop on other products of this same
type design. For that reason, we are
proposing this AD, which would require
torque inspection of the 3rd stage and
4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch
wear and replacement of the blade if
wear limits are exceeded. This proposed
AD would also require the replacement
of LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and nuts
with longer bolts made of Tinidur
material, with nuts made of Tinidur
material, and installation of crushable
sleeve spacers on the bolts.
E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM
01JYP1
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 126 / Thursday, July 1, 2010 / Proposed Rules
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
would affect 1,143 engines installed on
airplanes of U.S. registry. We also
estimate that it would take about 1
work-hour per engine to perform the
proposed blade inspection, and 1.5
work-hours per engine to replace the
LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and nuts and
install the crushable sleeve spacers.
Required bolts, nuts, and sleeve spacers
would cost about $4,576 per engine. We
anticipate that 61 engines would require
blade replacement each year. Required
blades would cost about $131,560 per
engine. The average labor rate is $85 per
work-hour. Based on these figures, we
estimate the total cost of the proposed
AD to U.S. operators to be $13,617,671.
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
proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Would not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this proposed AD. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the
regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Under the authority delegated to me
by the Administrator, the Federal
Aviation Administration proposes to
amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
38053
a new airworthiness directive to read as
follows:
Pratt & Whitney: Docket No. FAA–2010–
0452; Directorate Identifier 98–ANE–80–
AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) The Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) must receive comments on this
airworthiness directive (AD) action by
August 30, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2005–02–03.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Pratt & Whitney
(PW) JT8D–209, –217, –217A, –217C, and
–219 series turbofan engines. These engines
are installed on, but not limited to, Boeing
727 series and McDonnell Douglas MD–80
series airplanes.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from nine reports of
failure of Tinidur material low-pressure
turbine (LPT)-to-exhaust case bolts since AD
2005–02–03 became effective. We are issuing
this AD to prevent turbine blade failures that
could result in uncontained engine debris
and damage to the airplane.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the
actions required by this AD performed within
the compliance times specified unless the
actions have already been done.
Requirements of AD 2005–02–03
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
Initial Torque Inspection for JT8D–209,
–217, and –217A Engines
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
(f) For JT8D–209, –217, and –217A engines,
perform the initial torque inspection of 3rd
and 4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch
wear. Use the procedures described in
Accomplishment Instructions, Part 1,
Paragraphs 1 through 3, of PW Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6,
dated May 3, 2007, at the applicable
threshold in the following Table 1:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
removing Amendment 39–13948 (70 FR
3867, January 27, 2005) and by adding
TABLE 1—INITIAL TORQUE INSPECTION THRESHOLD FOR JT8D–209, –217, AND –217A ENGINES
Hours time-in-service (TIS)
as of March 3, 2005 (the
effective
date of
AD 2005–02–03)
WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS
Blade type
(1) New pre-Service Bulletin (SB) No. 5867 (small notch)
3rd stage turbine blades.
(2) Refurbished pre-SB No. 5867 (small notch) 3rd stage
turbine blades.
Inspection threshold
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:20 Jun 30, 2010
Jkt 220001
PO 00000
(i) Fewer than 3,000 ...........
Within 4,000 hours TIS.
Any number ........................
Within 6,000 hours TIS, or within 1,000 hours TIS from
March 3, 2005, whichever occurs first.
Within 10,000 hours TIS.
(i) Fewer than 6,000 ...........
Within 7,000 hours TIS.
(ii) 6,000 or more ................
(5) New pre-SB No. 6029 (small notch) 4th stage turbine
blades.
Within 6,000 hours TIS.
(ii) 3,000 or more ................
(3) New post-SB No. 5867 (large notch) 3rd stage turbine blades.
(4) Refurbished post-SB No. 5867 (large notch) 3rd
stage turbine blades.
Any number ........................
Within 8,000 hours TIS, or within 1,000 hours TIS from
March 3, 2005, whichever occurs first.
Within 6,000 hours TIS.
Any number ........................
Frm 00012
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM
01JYP1
38054
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 126 / Thursday, July 1, 2010 / Proposed Rules
TABLE 1—INITIAL TORQUE INSPECTION THRESHOLD FOR JT8D–209, –217, AND –217A ENGINES—Continued
Blade type
Hours time-in-service (TIS)
as of March 3, 2005 (the
effective
date of
AD 2005–02–03)
(6) Refurbished pre-SB No. 6029 (small notch) 4th stage
turbine blades.
(i) Fewer than 3,000 ...........
Within 4,000 hours TIS.
(ii) 3,000 or more ................
Any number ........................
Within 6,000 hours TIS, or within 1,000 hours TIS from
March 3, 2005, whichever occurs first.
Within 10,000 hours TIS.
(i) Fewer than 6,000 ...........
Within 7,000 hours TIS.
(ii) 6,000 or more ................
Within 8,000 hours TIS, or within 1,000 hours TIS from
March 3, 2005, whichever occurs first.
(7) New post-SB No. 6029 or new post-SB No. 6308
(large notch) 4th stage turbine blades.
(8) Refurbished post-SB No. 6029 or refurbished postSB No. 6308 (large notch) 4th stage turbine blades.
Repetitive Torque Inspections for JT8D–209,
–217, and –217A Engines
(g) For JT8D–209, –217, and –217A
engines, perform repetitive torque
Inspection threshold
inspections of 3rd and 4th stage LPT blades
for shroud notch wear. Use the procedures
described in Accomplishment Instructions,
Part 1, Paragraph 1 of PW ASB No. JT8D
A6224, Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007, at the
applicable intervals in the following Table 2
and Table 3:
TABLE 2—3RD STAGE REPETITIVE TORQUE INSPECTION INTERVALS FOR JT8D–209, –217, AND –217A ENGINES
Inspection torque readings
Number of
readings
Greater than or equal to 15 LB–IN (1.695 N.m) ..............
All .......................................
Less than 15 LB–IN (1.695 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m).
Less than 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m).
Less than 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m).
Less than 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m) .......................................
One or more .......................
Disposition
One to three .......................
Four or more ......................
One or more .......................
Repeat torque inspection within 1,000 hours TIS
last inspection.
Repeat torque inspection within 500 hours TIS
last inspection.
Repeat torque inspection within 125 hours TIS
last inspection.
Remove engine from service within 20 hours TIS
last inspection.
Remove engine from service within 20 hours TIS
last inspection.
since
since
since
since
since
TABLE 3—4TH STAGE REPETITIVE TORQUE INSPECTION INTERVALS FOR JT8D–209, –217, AND –217A ENGINES
Inspection torque readings
Number of
readings
Greater than or equal to 15 LB–IN (1.695 N.m) ..............
All .......................................
Less than 15 LB–IN (1.695 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m).
Less than 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m).
Less than 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m).
Less than 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m) .......................................
One or more .......................
WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS
(h) Subsequent repeat inspection intervals
must not exceed the previous inspection
interval.
JT8D–209, –217, and –217A Engines
Removed From Service
(i) JT8D–209, –217, and –217A engines
removed from service may be returned to
service after a detailed inspection and repair
or replacement for all blades, of the failed
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:20 Jun 30, 2010
Jkt 220001
Disposition
One to six ...........................
Seven or more ...................
One or more .......................
Repeat torque inspection within 1,000 hours TIS
last inspection.
Repeat torque inspection within 500 hours TIS
last inspection.
Repeat torque inspection within 125 hours TIS
last inspection.
Remove engine from service within 20 hours TIS
last inspection.
Remove engine from service within 20 hours TIS
last inspection.
stage, that exceed Engine Manual limits is
done. Information on repairing or replacing
turbine blades can be found in Sections 72–
53–12 through 72–53–13 of the JT8D–200
Engine Manual, Part No. 773128.
Initial Inspection for JT8D–217C and –219
Engines
(j) For JT8D–217C and –219 engines,
perform the initial torque inspection of 4th
PO 00000
Frm 00013
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
since
since
since
since
since
stage LPT blades for shroud notch wear. Use
the procedures described in Accomplishment
Instructions, Part 2, Paragraphs 1 through 3
of PW ASB No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6
dated May 3, 2007, at the applicable
threshold in the following Table 4:
E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM
01JYP1
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 126 / Thursday, July 1, 2010 / Proposed Rules
38055
TABLE 4—INITIAL TORQUE INSPECTION THRESHOLD FOR JT8D–217C AND –219 ENGINES
Blade type
TIS as of March 3, 2005
(1) New pre-SB No. 6090 (small notch) 4th stage turbine
blades.
(2) Refurbished pre-SB No. 6090 (small notch) 4th stage
turbine blades.
Any number ........................
Within 5,000 hours TIS.
(i) Fewer than 3,000 ...........
Within 4,000 hours TIS.
(ii) 3,000 or more ................
Any number ........................
Within 5,000 hours TIS, or within 1,000 hours TIS from
March 3, 2005, whichever occurs first.
Within 10,000 hours TIS.
Any number ........................
Within 7,000 hours TIS.
(i) Fewer than 3,000 ...........
Within 4,000 hours TIS.
(ii) 3,000 or more ................
Within 7,000 hours TIS, or within 1,000 hours TIS from
March 3, 2005, whichever occurs first.
stage LPT blades for shroud notch wear. Use
the procedures described in Accomplishment
Instructions, Part 2, Paragraph 1 of PW ASB
No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6, dated May 3,
2007, at the applicable intervals in the
following Table 5:
(3) New post-SB No. 6090, new post-SB No. 6402, or
new post-SB No. 6412 (large notch) 4th stage turbine
blades.
(4) Refurbished ‘‘As-Cast’’ post-SB No. 6090, post-SB
No. 6402, or post-SB No. 6412 (large notch) 4th stage
turbine blades.
(5) Refurbished ‘‘Modified’’ post-SB No. 6090, post-SB
No. 6402, or post-SB No. 6412 (large notch) 4th stage
turbine blades.
Repetitive Torque Inspections for JT8D–217C
and –219 Engines
(k) For JT8D–217C and –219 engines,
perform repetitive torque inspections of 4th
Inspection threshold
TABLE 5—REPETITIVE TORQUE INSPECTION INTERVALS FOR JT8D–217C AND –219 ENGINES
Inspection torque readings
Number of readings
Greater than or equal to 15 LB–IN (1.695 N.m) ..............
All .......................................
Less than 15 LB–IN (1.695 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m).
Less than 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m).
Less than 10 LB–IN (1.130 N.m) but greater than or
equal to 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m).
Less than 5 LB–IN (0.565 N.m) .......................................
One or more .......................
(l) Subsequent repeat inspection intervals
must not exceed the previous inspection
interval.
JT8D–217C and –219 Engines Removed From
Service
(m) JT8D–217C and –219 engines removed
from service may be returned to service after
a detailed inspection and repair or
replacement for all blades, of the failed stage,
that exceed Engine Manual limits is done.
Information on repairing or replacing turbine
blades can be found in Sections 72–53–12
through 72–53–13 of the JT8D–200 Engine
Manual, Part No. 773128.
WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS
Other Criteria for All Engine Models Listed
in This AD
(n) Whenever a refurbished or used blade
is intermixed with new blades in a rotor, use
the lowest initial inspection threshold that is
applicable.
(o) The initial torque inspection or the
repetitive inspection intervals for a particular
stage may not be reset unless the blades for
that stage are refurbished or replaced.
(p) Whenever a used (service run) blade is
reinstalled in a rotor, the previous used time
should be subtracted from the initial torque
inspection threshold.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:20 Jun 30, 2010
Jkt 220001
Disposition
One to six ...........................
Seven or more ...................
One or more .......................
Repeat torque inspection within 1,000 hours TIS
last inspection.
Repeat torque inspection within 500 hours TIS
last inspection.
Repeat torque inspection within 125 hours TIS
last inspection.
Remove engine from service within 20 hours TIS
last inspection.
Remove engine from service within 20 hours TIS
last inspection.
What This AD Changes
LPT-to-Exhaust Case Bolts and Nuts
Replacement, and Crushable Sleeve Spacer
Installation
(q) At next accessibility to the LPT-toExhaust Case bolts and nuts, do the
following:
(1) Replace the bolts with part number (P/
N) MS9557–26 bolts; and
(2) Replace the nuts with P/N 375095 nuts
or P/N 490270 nuts; and
(3) Install crushable sleeve spacers, P/N
822903, under the head of the bolts.
(4) Guidance on replacing the bolts and
nuts and installing the crushable sleeve
spacers can be found in PW ASB No. JT8D
A6494, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2010.
Previous Credit
(r) Initial inspections performed before the
effective date of this AD using PW ASB No.
JT8D A6224, Revision 5, dated June 11, 2004,
or Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007, satisfy the
initial inspection requirements of this AD.
Definitions
(s) For the purpose of this AD,
refurbishment is defined as restoration of
either the shrouds or blade retwist or both,
PO 00000
Frm 00014
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
since
since
since
since
since
per the JT8D–200 Engine Manual, Part No.
773128.
(t) For the purpose of this AD, ‘‘As-Cast’’
refers to blades that were machined from new
castings and ‘‘Modified’’ refers to blades that
were derived from the pre-SB No. 6090
configuration.
(u) For the purpose of this AD,
‘‘accessibility to the LPT-to-exhaust case
bolts’’ refers to when the engine is
disassembled sufficiently to give access to
the LPT-to-exhaust case bolts, which is
whenever the inner turbine fan ducts are
removed.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(v) The Manager, Engine Certification
Office, has the authority to approve
alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs)
for this AD if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. AMOCs approved for
the initial and repetitive inspection
requirements of AD 2005–02–03 are
approved as AMOCs for this AD.
Related Information
(w) Contact Kevin Dickert, Aerospace
Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA,
Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM
01JYP1
38056
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 126 / Thursday, July 1, 2010 / Proposed Rules
01803; e-mail: kevin.dickert@faa.gov;
telephone (781) 238–7117; fax (781) 238–
7199, for more information about this AD.
(x) Contact Pratt & Whitney, 400 Main St.,
East Hartford, CT 06108; telephone (860)
565–8770, fax (860) 565–4503, for a copy of
the service information referenced in this
AD.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
June 22, 2010.
Peter A. White,
Assistant Manager, Engine and Propeller
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010–16010 Filed 6–30–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0645; Directorate
Identifier 2009–NM–200–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell
Douglas Corporation Model MD–90–30
Airplanes
WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to
supersede an existing airworthiness
directive (AD) that applies to certain
Model MD–90–30 airplanes. The
existing AD currently requires a detailed
inspection for certain defects of the
upper fasteners of the aft mount support
fittings of the left and right engines, and
corrective actions if necessary. This
proposed AD would instead require
repetitive replacement of the upper row
of fasteners of the support fittings of the
engine aft mount with new fasteners;
and perform repetitive general visual
inspections for defects of the lower row
fasteners (Row B) of the support fittings
of the left and right engine aft mounts,
and replacement of all clearance fit
fasteners in the lower row if necessary.
This proposed AD results from reports
of loose, cracked, or missing fasteners in
the aft mount support fitting of the left
and right engines. We are proposing this
AD to prevent loose, cracked, or missing
fasteners in the engine aft mount
support fittings, which could lead to
separation of the support fittings from
the pylon, and could result in
separation of the engine from the
airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 16, 2010.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:20 Jun 30, 2010
Jkt 220001
You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations,
M–30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590,
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data
& Services Management, 3855
Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800 0019,
Long Beach, California 90846–0001;
telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2;
fax 206 766–5683; e-mail
dse.boecom@boeing.com; Internet
https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
may review copies of the referenced
service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington.
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 425–227–
1221.
ADDRESSES:
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov; 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 proposed AD, the
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for the Docket Office
(telephone 800–647–5527) is in the
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after
receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood,
California 90712–4137; telephone (562)
627–5233; fax (562) 627–5210.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to send any written
relevant data, views, or arguments about
this proposed AD. Send your comments
to an address listed under the
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2010–0645; Directorate Identifier
2009–NM–200–AD’’ at the beginning of
PO 00000
Frm 00015
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of this proposed AD. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend this
proposed AD because of those
comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact we receive
about this proposed AD.
Discussion
On August 25, 2008, we issued AD
2008–18–10, Amendment 39–15667 (73
FR 52203, September 9, 2008), for
certain McDonnell Douglas Corporation
Model MD–90–30 airplanes. That AD
requires a detailed inspection for certain
defects of the upper fasteners of the aft
mount support fittings of the left and
right engines, and corrective actions if
necessary. That AD resulted from
reports of loose, cracked, or missing
fasteners in the aft mount support
fittings of the left and right engines. We
issued that AD to detect and correct
loose, cracked, or missing fasteners in
the engine aft support mount fittings,
which could lead to separation of the
support fittings from the pylon, and
could result in separation of the engine
from the airplane.
Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued
The preamble to AD 2008–18–10
explains that we considered the
requirements ‘‘interim action’’ and were
considering further rulemaking. We now
have determined that further
rulemaking is indeed necessary, and
this proposed AD follows from that
determination.
We also have received additional
reports of loose, cracked, or missing
fasteners in the aft mount support fitting
of the left and right engines on 29
McDonnell Douglas Corporation Model
MD–90–30 airplanes. The airplanes had
accumulated between 15,560 and 37,298
total flight hours, and between 13,995
and 31,294 total flight cycles.
Results of a safety assessment of the
missing fasteners indicate that loose or
otherwise discrepant fasteners in the top
horizontal row, common with the pylon
skin, significantly decrease the margin
of safety of the aft mount support
installation at the design limit load.
Replacement of the upper row of
fasteners at new specified intervals will
help minimize the possibility of these
fasteners becoming an unsafe condition
while in service. Inspection of the lower
E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM
01JYP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 126 (Thursday, July 1, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38052-38056]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-16010]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2010-0452; Directorate Identifier 98-ANE-80-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney JT8D-209, -217, -217A,
-217C, and -219 Series Turbofan Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness
directive (AD) for Pratt & Whitney (PW) JT8D-209, -217, -217A, -217C,
and -219 series turbofan engines. That AD requires initial and
repetitive torque inspections of the 3rd stage and 4th stage low-
pressure turbine (LPT) blades for shroud notch wear and replacement of
the blade if wear limits are exceeded. That AD also requires replacing
LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and nuts with bolts and nuts made of Tinidur
material. This proposed AD would require the same actions but would
require replacement of the LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and nuts with
longer bolts made of Tinidur material, with nuts made of Tinidur
material, and installation of crushable sleeve spacers on the bolts.
This proposed AD results from nine reports of failure of Tinidur
material LPT-to-exhaust case bolts since AD 2005-02-03 became
effective. We are proposing this AD to prevent turbine blade failures
that could result in uncontained engine debris and damage to the
airplane.
DATES: We must receive any comments on this proposed AD by August 30,
2010.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to comment on this
proposed AD.
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., West Building Ground
Floor, Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin Dickert, Aerospace Engineer,
Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12
New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail:
kevin.dickert@faa.gov; telephone (781) 238-7117; fax (781) 238-7199.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments regarding this proposal. Send your comments to an address
listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2010-0452; Directorate
Identifier 98-ANE-80-AD'' in the subject line of your comments. We
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will consider
all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposed AD
in light of those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact
with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search
function of the Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any
of our dockets, including, if provided, the name of the individual who
sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association,
business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT's complete Privacy
Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65
FR 19477-78).
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street
address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is
the same as the Mail address provided in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
Discussion
The FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 by superseding AD 2005-02-
03, Amendment 39-13948 (70 FR 3867, January 27, 2005). That AD requires
torque inspection of the 3rd stage and 4th stage LPT blades for shroud
notch wear and replacement of the blade if wear limits are exceeded.
That AD also requires replacing LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and nuts with
bolts and nuts made of Tinidur material. That AD was the result of
reports of 194 blade fractures since 1991, with 37 of those blade
fractures resulting in LPT case separation, and three reports of
uncontained 3rd stage and 4th stage LPT blade failures with cowl
penetration. That condition, if not corrected, could result in turbine
blade failures that could result in uncontained engine debris and
damage to the airplane.
Actions Since AD 2005-02-03 Was Issued
Since AD 2005-02-03 was issued, we received nine reports of failure
of Tinidur material LPT-to-exhaust case bolts occurring during 3rd and/
or 4th stage blade fracture events. Three of these events resulted in
cowl penetration. The bolts mandated by AD 2005-02-03 do not provide
enough energy absorption during a blade fracture event. PW has
introduced longer bolts made of Tinidur and crushable sleeve spacers
that will increase the energy absorption capability of the fasteners
during a blade fracture event.
Also since AD 2005-02-03 was issued, PW revised Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) No. JT8D A6224, Revision 5, dated June 11, 2004, with
Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed and approved the technical contents of PW ASB No.
JT8D A6224, Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007. That ASB describes
procedures for performing torque inspections of the 3rd and 4th stage
turbine blades.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD
We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on other products
of this same type design. For that reason, we are proposing this AD,
which would require torque inspection of the 3rd stage and 4th stage
LPT blades for shroud notch wear and replacement of the blade if wear
limits are exceeded. This proposed AD would also require the
replacement of LPT-to-exhaust case bolts and nuts with longer bolts
made of Tinidur material, with nuts made of Tinidur material, and
installation of crushable sleeve spacers on the bolts.
[[Page 38053]]
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 1,143 engines
installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would
take about 1 work-hour per engine to perform the proposed blade
inspection, and 1.5 work-hours per engine to replace the LPT-to-exhaust
case bolts and nuts and install the crushable sleeve spacers. Required
bolts, nuts, and sleeve spacers would cost about $4,576 per engine. We
anticipate that 61 engines would require blade replacement each year.
Required blades would cost about $131,560 per engine. The average labor
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the
total cost of the proposed AD to U.S. operators to be $13,617,671.
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 proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this proposed AD. See the ADDRESSES section for a location
to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the
Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 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.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by removing Amendment 39-13948 (70 FR
3867, January 27, 2005) and by adding a new airworthiness directive to
read as follows:
Pratt & Whitney: Docket No. FAA-2010-0452; Directorate Identifier
98-ANE-80-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must receive
comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) action by August 30,
2010.
Affected ADs
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2005-02-03.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Pratt & Whitney (PW) JT8D-209, -217, -
217A, -217C, and -219 series turbofan engines. These engines are
installed on, but not limited to, Boeing 727 series and McDonnell
Douglas MD-80 series airplanes.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from nine reports of failure of Tinidur
material low-pressure turbine (LPT)-to-exhaust case bolts since AD
2005-02-03 became effective. We are issuing this AD to prevent
turbine blade failures that could result in uncontained engine
debris and damage to the airplane.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified unless the
actions have already been done.
Requirements of AD 2005-02-03
Initial Torque Inspection for JT8D-209, -217, and -217A Engines
(f) For JT8D-209, -217, and -217A engines, perform the initial
torque inspection of 3rd and 4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch
wear. Use the procedures described in Accomplishment Instructions,
Part 1, Paragraphs 1 through 3, of PW Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007, at the applicable
threshold in the following Table 1:
Table 1--Initial Torque Inspection Threshold for JT8D-209, -217, and -
217A Engines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hours time-in-
service (TIS) as
of March 3, 2005
Blade type (the effective Inspection threshold
date of AD 2005-
02-03)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) New pre-Service Bulletin Any number....... Within 6,000 hours
(SB) No. 5867 (small notch) TIS.
3rd stage turbine blades.
(2) Refurbished pre-SB No. (i) Fewer than Within 4,000 hours
5867 (small notch) 3rd stage 3,000. TIS.
turbine blades.
(ii) 3,000 or Within 6,000 hours
more. TIS, or within 1,000
hours TIS from March
3, 2005, whichever
occurs first.
(3) New post-SB No. 5867 Any number....... Within 10,000 hours
(large notch) 3rd stage TIS.
turbine blades.
(4) Refurbished post-SB No. (i) Fewer than Within 7,000 hours
5867 (large notch) 3rd stage 6,000. TIS.
turbine blades.
(ii) 6,000 or Within 8,000 hours
more. TIS, or within 1,000
hours TIS from March
3, 2005, whichever
occurs first.
(5) New pre-SB No. 6029 (small Any number....... Within 6,000 hours
notch) 4th stage turbine TIS.
blades.
[[Page 38054]]
(6) Refurbished pre-SB No. (i) Fewer than Within 4,000 hours
6029 (small notch) 4th stage 3,000. TIS.
turbine blades.
(ii) 3,000 or Within 6,000 hours
more. TIS, or within 1,000
hours TIS from March
3, 2005, whichever
occurs first.
(7) New post-SB No. 6029 or Any number....... Within 10,000 hours
new post-SB No. 6308 (large TIS.
notch) 4th stage turbine
blades.
(8) Refurbished post-SB No. (i) Fewer than Within 7,000 hours
6029 or refurbished post-SB 6,000. TIS.
No. 6308 (large notch) 4th
stage turbine blades.
(ii) 6,000 or Within 8,000 hours
more. TIS, or within 1,000
hours TIS from March
3, 2005, whichever
occurs first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive Torque Inspections for JT8D-209, -217, and -217A Engines
(g) For JT8D-209, -217, and -217A engines, perform repetitive
torque inspections of 3rd and 4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch
wear. Use the procedures described in Accomplishment Instructions,
Part 1, Paragraph 1 of PW ASB No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6, dated May
3, 2007, at the applicable intervals in the following Table 2 and
Table 3:
Table 2--3rd Stage Repetitive Torque Inspection Intervals for JT8D-209,
217, and -217A Engines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of
Inspection torque readings readings Disposition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greater than or equal to 15 LB- All.............. Repeat torque
IN (1.695 N.m). inspection within
1,000 hours TIS
since last
inspection.
Less than 15 LB-IN (1.695 N.m) One or more...... Repeat torque
but greater than or equal to inspection within
10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m). 500 hours TIS since
last inspection.
Less than 10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m) One to three..... Repeat torque
but greater than or equal to inspection within
5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). 125 hours TIS since
last inspection.
Less than 10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m) Four or more..... Remove engine from
but greater than or equal to service within 20
5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). hours TIS since last
inspection.
Less than 5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). One or more...... Remove engine from
service within 20
hours TIS since last
inspection.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 3--4th Stage Repetitive Torque Inspection Intervals for JT8D-209,
217, and -217A Engines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of
Inspection torque readings readings Disposition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greater than or equal to 15 LB- All.............. Repeat torque
IN (1.695 N.m). inspection within
1,000 hours TIS
since last
inspection.
Less than 15 LB-IN (1.695 N.m) One or more...... Repeat torque
but greater than or equal to inspection within
10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m). 500 hours TIS since
last inspection.
Less than 10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m) One to six....... Repeat torque
but greater than or equal to inspection within
5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). 125 hours TIS since
last inspection.
Less than 10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m) Seven or more.... Remove engine from
but greater than or equal to service within 20
5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). hours TIS since last
inspection.
Less than 5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). One or more...... Remove engine from
service within 20
hours TIS since last
inspection.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(h) Subsequent repeat inspection intervals must not exceed the
previous inspection interval.
JT8D-209, -217, and -217A Engines Removed From Service
(i) JT8D-209, -217, and -217A engines removed from service may
be returned to service after a detailed inspection and repair or
replacement for all blades, of the failed stage, that exceed Engine
Manual limits is done. Information on repairing or replacing turbine
blades can be found in Sections 72-53-12 through 72-53-13 of the
JT8D-200 Engine Manual, Part No. 773128.
Initial Inspection for JT8D-217C and -219 Engines
(j) For JT8D-217C and -219 engines, perform the initial torque
inspection of 4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch wear. Use the
procedures described in Accomplishment Instructions, Part 2,
Paragraphs 1 through 3 of PW ASB No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6 dated
May 3, 2007, at the applicable threshold in the following Table 4:
[[Page 38055]]
Table 4--Initial Torque Inspection Threshold for JT8D-217C and -219
Engines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
TIS as of March
Blade type 3, 2005 Inspection threshold
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) New pre-SB No. 6090 (small Any number....... Within 5,000 hours
notch) 4th stage turbine TIS.
blades.
(2) Refurbished pre-SB No. (i) Fewer than Within 4,000 hours
6090 (small notch) 4th stage 3,000. TIS.
turbine blades.
(ii) 3,000 or Within 5,000 hours
more. TIS, or within 1,000
hours TIS from March
3, 2005, whichever
occurs first.
(3) New post-SB No. 6090, new Any number....... Within 10,000 hours
post-SB No. 6402, or new post- TIS.
SB No. 6412 (large notch) 4th
stage turbine blades.
(4) Refurbished ``As-Cast'' Any number....... Within 7,000 hours
post-SB No. 6090, post-SB No. TIS.
6402, or post-SB No. 6412
(large notch) 4th stage
turbine blades.
(5) Refurbished ``Modified'' (i) Fewer than Within 4,000 hours
post-SB No. 6090, post-SB No. 3,000. TIS.
6402, or post-SB No. 6412
(large notch) 4th stage
turbine blades.
(ii) 3,000 or Within 7,000 hours
more. TIS, or within 1,000
hours TIS from March
3, 2005, whichever
occurs first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive Torque Inspections for JT8D-217C and -219 Engines
(k) For JT8D-217C and -219 engines, perform repetitive torque
inspections of 4th stage LPT blades for shroud notch wear. Use the
procedures described in Accomplishment Instructions, Part 2,
Paragraph 1 of PW ASB No. JT8D A6224, Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007,
at the applicable intervals in the following Table 5:
Table 5--Repetitive Torque Inspection Intervals for JT8D-217C and -219
Engines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of
Inspection torque readings readings Disposition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greater than or equal to 15 LB- All.............. Repeat torque
IN (1.695 N.m). inspection within
1,000 hours TIS
since last
inspection.
Less than 15 LB-IN (1.695 N.m) One or more...... Repeat torque
but greater than or equal to inspection within
10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m). 500 hours TIS since
last inspection.
Less than 10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m) One to six....... Repeat torque
but greater than or equal to inspection within
5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). 125 hours TIS since
last inspection.
Less than 10 LB-IN (1.130 N.m) Seven or more.... Remove engine from
but greater than or equal to service within 20
5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). hours TIS since last
inspection.
Less than 5 LB-IN (0.565 N.m). One or more...... Remove engine from
service within 20
hours TIS since last
inspection.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(l) Subsequent repeat inspection intervals must not exceed the
previous inspection interval.
JT8D-217C and -219 Engines Removed From Service
(m) JT8D-217C and -219 engines removed from service may be
returned to service after a detailed inspection and repair or
replacement for all blades, of the failed stage, that exceed Engine
Manual limits is done. Information on repairing or replacing turbine
blades can be found in Sections 72-53-12 through 72-53-13 of the
JT8D-200 Engine Manual, Part No. 773128.
Other Criteria for All Engine Models Listed in This AD
(n) Whenever a refurbished or used blade is intermixed with new
blades in a rotor, use the lowest initial inspection threshold that
is applicable.
(o) The initial torque inspection or the repetitive inspection
intervals for a particular stage may not be reset unless the blades
for that stage are refurbished or replaced.
(p) Whenever a used (service run) blade is reinstalled in a
rotor, the previous used time should be subtracted from the initial
torque inspection threshold.
What This AD Changes
LPT-to-Exhaust Case Bolts and Nuts Replacement, and Crushable Sleeve
Spacer Installation
(q) At next accessibility to the LPT-to-Exhaust Case bolts and
nuts, do the following:
(1) Replace the bolts with part number (P/N) MS9557-26 bolts;
and
(2) Replace the nuts with P/N 375095 nuts or P/N 490270 nuts;
and
(3) Install crushable sleeve spacers, P/N 822903, under the head
of the bolts.
(4) Guidance on replacing the bolts and nuts and installing the
crushable sleeve spacers can be found in PW ASB No. JT8D A6494,
Revision 1, dated January 26, 2010.
Previous Credit
(r) Initial inspections performed before the effective date of
this AD using PW ASB No. JT8D A6224, Revision 5, dated June 11,
2004, or Revision 6, dated May 3, 2007, satisfy the initial
inspection requirements of this AD.
Definitions
(s) For the purpose of this AD, refurbishment is defined as
restoration of either the shrouds or blade retwist or both, per the
JT8D-200 Engine Manual, Part No. 773128.
(t) For the purpose of this AD, ``As-Cast'' refers to blades
that were machined from new castings and ``Modified'' refers to
blades that were derived from the pre-SB No. 6090 configuration.
(u) For the purpose of this AD, ``accessibility to the LPT-to-
exhaust case bolts'' refers to when the engine is disassembled
sufficiently to give access to the LPT-to-exhaust case bolts, which
is whenever the inner turbine fan ducts are removed.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(v) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, has the authority
to approve alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) for this AD if
requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. AMOCs approved
for the initial and repetitive inspection requirements of AD 2005-
02-03 are approved as AMOCs for this AD.
Related Information
(w) Contact Kevin Dickert, Aerospace Engineer, Engine
Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
[[Page 38056]]
01803; e-mail: kevin.dickert@faa.gov; telephone (781) 238-7117; fax
(781) 238-7199, for more information about this AD.
(x) Contact Pratt & Whitney, 400 Main St., East Hartford, CT
06108; telephone (860) 565-8770, fax (860) 565-4503, for a copy of
the service information referenced in this AD.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on June 22, 2010.
Peter A. White,
Assistant Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-16010 Filed 6-30-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P