Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk: Aircraft Borescopes

A borescope camera is an inspection tool used to visually examine internal aircraft components and structures that are difficult to access directly. It typically consists of a long, thin tube equipped with a camera or optical lens and a light source at the tip. Images captured by the camera are transmitted to a viewer, allowing aircraft maintenance technicians to inspect the interior of engines, turbines, and airframes without disassembly. This saves time and reduces maintenance costs while ensuring equipment integrity.

There are three main types of borescopes used in aircraft maintenance.

• Rigid borescopes have a fixed, inflexible tube that allows for a direct view of the inspected area. These are typically used for inspecting straight or slightly curved passages, such as the interior of engine cylinders. While rigid borescopes provide excellent image quality, they are limited by their inability to navigate around bends.
• Articulating borescopes have a bendable tube, allowing them to navigate difficult-to-reach areas with complex or curved structures, such as turbine engines or pipes. While articulating borescopes offer greater maneuverability, their image quality may not be as sharp as rigid models due to the flexibility required for articulation.
• Video borescopes are equipped with cameras that transmit live images to a separate monitor, allowing for easier viewing and recording.

Traditional inspections often involve removing engine components, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Borescopes provide a noninvasive method for inspecting internal engine components like blades, combustion chambers, and turbines for signs of wear, damage, corrosion, or foreign objects, ensuring safe operation and preventing costly engine failures.

Borescopes can identify a variety of issues in aircraft engines, such as:

• Cracks in cylinder walls or turbine blades
• Carbon buildup on pistons or valves
• Wear on piston rings or bearing surfaces
• Foreign object debris (FOD) lodged within the engine
• Signs of oil leaks or corrosion

By allowing detailed visual inspections of internal components without disassembly, borescopes help identify potential issues before they become critical. This proactive approach ensures that aircraft systems remain safe and operational, minimizing the risk of in-flight failures.

When selecting a borescope for aircraft maintenance, consider the following factors:

• Inspection Requirements: Determine the types of components that need to be inspected and the level of detail required.
• Scope Diameter: Choose a scope diameter that is appropriate for the access openings and the size of the components being inspected.
• Scope Length: Select a scope that is long enough to reach the areas targeted for inspection.
• Image Quality: Look for a borescope with high-resolution optics and good lighting.
• Durability: Consider the durability of the borescope, especially if it will be used in harsh environments.
• Advanced Features: Some modern borescopes include additional features like high-definition imaging, zoom capabilities, built-in recording, wireless connectivity, data capturing, and integration with other diagnostic tools.

Yes! Borescopes can be used to inspect various non-engine components, such as airframes, landing gear, and fuel systems. Their ability to access confined spaces makes borescopes invaluable for identifying structural integrity issues and fluid leaks.

Video borescopes provide real-time, high-definition video of internal components, making it easier to spot defects. These borescopes also allow technicians to record and store inspection data, which is useful for maintenance records and further analysis.

Borescope inspections are typically performed during routine maintenance intervals or whenever specific issues arise, like abnormal engine noise or performance degradation. Regular inspections with borescopes can help extend the lifespan of aircraft components and prevent unexpected failures. For specific inspection guidelines, consult your aircraft maintenance manual (AMM).

While borescopes are available for purchase to the general public, using them effectively for aircraft engine inspections requires specialized training and an understanding of engine components and potential issues. Therefore, only certified and trained aircraft mechanics with expertise in borescope interpretation of inspection results should perform these inspections.