Aircraft fluid lines are usually made of metal tubing or flexible hose. Metal tubing (also called rigid fluid lines) is used in stationary applications and where long, relatively straight runs are possible. They are widely used in aircraft for fuel, oil, coolant, oxygen, instrument, and hydraulic lines. Flexible hose is generally used with moving parts or where the hose is subject to considerable vibration.
Occasionally, it may be necessary to repair or replace damaged aircraft fluid lines. Very often the repair can be made simply by replacing the tubing. However, if replacements are not available, the needed parts may have to be fabricated. Replacement tubing should be of the same size and material as the original tubing. All tubing is pressure tested prior to initial installation and is designed to withstand several times the normal operating pressure to which it is subjected. If a tube bursts or cracks, it is generally the result of excessive vibration, improper installation, or damage caused by collision with an object. All tubing failures should be carefully studied and the cause of the failure determined.
- Rigid Fluid Lines – Tubing Materials, Material Identification, Sizes
- Rigid Fluid Lines – Fabrication of Metal Tube Lines, Tube Cutting
- Rigid Fluid Lines – Tube Bending, Alternative Bending Methods
- Rigid Fluid Lines – Tube Flaring
- Rigid Fluid Lines – Fittings, Beading
- Rigid Fluid Lines – Fluid Line Identification, Fluid Line End Fittings, Universal Bulkhead Fittings
- Rigid Fluid Lines – AN Flared Fittings, MS Flareless Fittings, Swaged Fittings, Cryofit Fittings
- Rigid Tubing Installation and Inspection
- Flexible Hose Fluid Lines – Hose Materials and Construction and Identification
- Flexible Hose Fluid Lines
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