Engine Cooling and Exhaust Systems

It has always been a wonder how we have attained flight through the help of the aircraft. But in an effort to keep us soaring through the sky, aircraft produce so much heat – especially in its engine. The powerful engine that makes flight possible needs to be cooled in order to prevent it from burning.

Liquid Cooling and Air Cooling 

There are two ways to keep aircraft engines from overheating: liquid cooling and air cooling.

In the process of liquid cooling, fluids run through the aircraft’s engine and regulates the temperature at comfortable levels. Aside from water, some coolants like ethylene glycol are used to help regulate aircraft temperature. While liquid cooling is considered to be less hazardous, and that the coolants can reach critical areas of the engine, liquid cooling systems add considerable weight to aircraft.

On the other hand, air-cooling is made possible with the movement of air into the internal parts of the aircraft, especially through the engine compartment. Air is allowed to enter the engine compartment through the openings in front of the engine cowling. Air is then routed to other parts of the engine, absorbing the heat, and the expulsed through one or more openings at the lower part of the engine cowling. The downside of air-cooling is that air is less efficient than liquid in regulating heat so in order for it to work, a lot of air is needed. Also, when you need to keep the engine warm during cold situations, you will need to control the amount of heat that goes out.

It must be noted that since the efficiency of air cooling depends on the amount of air that flows through the engine compartment, controlling airflow is important. During ground operations and during takeoffs, there is low airspeed but high power. On the contrary, during descent, there is exceedingly high airspeed.

Exhaust Systems

Aircraft exhaust systems are essential parts that promote air-cooling. With the help of aircraft exhaust systems, you are able to control the amount of air that goes in and out of your aircraft engine. A properly-working aircraft exhaust system will expel heat and gases out of your aircraft and provide the necessary heat in cold weather.

One of the dangerous gases that exhaust systems expel is carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that is deadly when inhaled, especially in high concentration. The exhaust system must be able to expel carbon monoxide out of the engine without leaking it into the cockpit. That being said, you must always maintain your aircraft exhaust system.

Knisley Welding’s Exhaust Systems

Knisley Welding knows how important exhaust systems are for your aircrafts. That is why we specialize in providing exhaust parts and systems, as well as their installation, maintenance, and repair.

In order for your aircraft to keep soaring through the skies without the hazards of overheating, as well as carbon monoxide poisoning, get high quality and high performance exhaust systems from Knisley Welding now! Don’t forget that for aircraft exhaust systems, Knisley Welding is the best choice!