Description of Driving Event:
Improved Auxiliary Power Unit (APU)
Lesson(s) Learned:
A new gas generator valve module for the Improved Auxiliary Power Unit (IAPU) is currently entering the process of certification. When fully certified, the IAPU with this new valve is planned to be qualified for 75 hours of operation between scheduled teardowns and overhauls (in excess of 10 years at projected use rates).
Recommendation(s):
Once certification is achieved for 75 hours of IAPU operation, NASA should establish a periodic inspection and test program to assure that IAPUs continue to perform in accordance with requirements throughout their service life.
Evidence of Recurrence Control Effectiveness:
An IAPU maintenance plan is being developed by the NASA and contractor technical community. Current activity is focused on developing a maintenance specification, evaluating long-term life of elastomeric components, and organizing a parts tracking/usage database. At the conclusion of this effort in late FY 1997, a long-term maintenance plan will be baselined for implementation. Supplementing this to provide long-term service life information is a fleet leader test program at WSTF. The WSTF program is currently scheduled to conclude in FY 1999 and is to demonstrate 75-hour run time and evaluate 10+ year teardown and overhaul time.
Documents Related to Lesson:
N/A
Mission Directorate(s):
- Exploration Systems
- Space Operations
- Aeronautics Research
Additional Key Phrase(s):
- Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel
- Hardware
- Hazardous/Toxic Waste/Materials
- Risk Management/Assessment
- Spacecraft
- Test Article
- Test & Verification
Additional Info:
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