Aviation Instrumentation Notes
1. Thermocouple
Definition:
A thermocouple is a temperature-sensing device that converts thermal energy into electrical voltage based on
the Seebeck effect.
Seebeck Effect:
When two dissimilar metals are joined at two junctions and the junctions are at different temperatures, an
EMF is generated.
Materials Used:
- ChromelAlumel (Type K)
- IronConstantan (Type J)
- CopperConstantan (Type T)
Factors Affecting:
- Material type
- Temperature gradient
- Wire length
- Oxidation/corrosion
- Electrical noise
Used For:
- EGT (Exhaust Gas Temp)
- TIT (Turbine Inlet Temp)
- CHT (Cylinder Head Temp)
2. Tachogenerator / Tachometer Generator
Purpose:
Converts mechanical rotation (RPM) into an electrical signal.
Working Principle:
Aviation Instrumentation Notes
Based on Electromagnetic Induction (EMI).
Construction:
- Armature
- Field magnets
- Output terminals
Precautions:
- Inspect with power OFF
- Avoid damage
- Check connections
3. Capacitance and Fuel Quantity Indicating System
Formula: C = (A) / d
Factors:
- Dielectric material
- Plate area
- Distance between plates
- Fuel density
Fuel Quantity Measurement:
- Capacitance sensors per tank
- Connected in parallel
- Capacitance changes with fuel level
- Commonly 3 sensors in A380
Series vs Parallel:
- Parallel gives average value
4. Magnetic Compass
Aviation Instrumentation Notes
Construction:
- Magnetic needle
- Fluid-filled (kerosene or alcohol)
- Lubber line
Purpose of Fluid:
- Reduces friction
- Stabilizes buoyancy
- Dampens oscillation
Errors:
- Magnetic deviation
- Magnetic dip
- Acceleration/deceleration error
Compass Swing Check:
- Rotate aircraft in 30 steps over 360
- Compare with compass rose or DG
- Deviation graph
- Correction screws (non-metallic screwdriver)
- Max acceptable deviation: 10
5. Operational Checks of Instruments
Tachometer:
- Check signal vs RPM
- Generator connection
- Inspect with switch OFF
Thermocouple:
- Compare reading to standard
- Check voltage
- Inspect wires
Aviation Instrumentation Notes
6. Pitot Tube and Heating System
Purpose:
Measures airspeed
Construction:
- Heater around pitot tube
- Switch on pilot side above ACP
Circuit:
- Breaker
- Heater switch
- Relay
- Pitot heater
Learjet/Bonanza Location:
Under wing or nose
7. Magnetic Compass Types
- Wet Compass: Kerosene filled
- Whiskey Compass: Alcohol filled
Use:
- More reliable for long flights
- DG used for short flights
8. Basic Six Instruments
1. Airspeed Indicator
2. Attitude Indicator
3. Altimeter
4. Turn Coordinator
5. Heading Indicator
Aviation Instrumentation Notes
6. Vertical Speed Indicator