Using digital tools to minimize disruptions

Solutions such as oil analysis technology and remote support tools like Onsight by Librestream make rapid, tailored support possible even if a representative cannot be on site. 

Note: During this challenging time, we are taking the necessary measures to reduce COVID-19 related safety risks for our employees, customers, suppliers and partners. As you plan for potentially significant effects on your operations, we are working to ensure we have the appropriate measures in place to continue providing the support you need. We are also publishing a series of articles on Airtime with practical advice to help in that regard.

Pratt & Whitney’s oil analysis technology is an engine health management tool that provides greater visibility into engines without intrusive inspections. Currently available for nearly 30 turbofan, PT6A turboprop and helicopter engine models, the solution continues to roll out progressively to a growing number of P&W-powered aircraft. For optimal results, it’s recommended that customers take a sample every 200 to 300 flying hours.

However, for many engine models, this technology also has an important role to play if you’re planning to preserve your engine for an extended period of time, notes Nicholas Bonomo, Senior Service Engineering Associate. “In this case,” he says, “we advise that you send us a sample for analysis once a month.”

The reason for this is to keep an eye on two key engine oil parameters: water content and total acid number (TAN) results, which are included as part of the oil analysis technology full service package.

If the analysis shows that the water or TAN levels are above the acceptable threshold, what should you do?

“Flush the oil system and replenish it,” says Nicholas. “The steps you need to take are outlined in your engine and/or aircraft maintenance manual.”

By taking monthly oil samples, you can help ensure your engines are in good condition and ready to go whenever it’s time for your aircraft to return to service.

During normal times when your engines are in use, the technology is an important diagnostic tool. By analyzing particles in oil samples taken from an engine and comparing them to the healthy baseline for that model, Pratt & Whitney’s experts are able to diagnose the condition of oil-wetted components and identify potential issues well in advance of an event so that it can be mitigated or avoided.

The simple process is done using an oil sample kit supplied by Pratt & Whitney. The sample is then returned in a pre-paid envelope. Results are typically provided in about 48 hours, either online or in a PDF report sent by email.

Oil analysis technology is included in many Pratt & Whitney Eagle Service™ Plan (ESP™) engine maintenance programs and is also available separately.

There may be times when you need assistance from a Pratt & Whitney Field Support Representative (FSR) but one is not available due to travel restrictions or cannot reach you quickly enough to deal with an urgent issue.

To remotely support our customers, a digital tool is available that enables personalized assistance from a distance: Onsight by Librestream.

This two-way audio-visual technology platform allows aircraft technicians and Pratt & Whitney support personnel to interact in real time, explains Jeremy Murray, Regional Manager, Field Operations.

The basic Onsight service is free of charge. Customers who would like to use it will be sent a guest license. They can then download the app onto their iOS or Android device and initiate a call.

Various features help to make remote collaboration seamless, including Onsight’s low-bandwidth capability and functions such as taking photos, recording videos, sharing high-definition stills, and telestration, which allows users to digitally “sketch” over top of videos and images.

This tool may be used to receive guidance or training in various situations, including support for customers with questions about preserving their engine during downtime or returning it to service.

If you’d like to use Onsight, you may contact either the Customer First Centre or an FSR.

To learn about the various options that are available to customers with questions about engine preservation or any other issues, read How to Get Support and Information from Your Engine Experts.