How Auxiliary Power Units Work

 How Auxiliary Power Units Work

APU engine.

* Honeywell 331-500

Aircraft systems explained

* Auxiliary power unit

* Electrical load management system

Major components covered.

* Main and APU battery, power distribution panel, APU engine, air inlet duct, inlet door, apu dc pump, electric actuator, fuel cluster, ignition unit, igniter plug and APU controller.

* Reverse flow annular combustor, centrifugal compressor, axial flow turbine, swirler, fuel nozzle, accessory gearbox, electric starter, pawl clutch mechanism, impeller, diffuser, stator, rotor, exhaust duct and fuel manifolds.

We have installed over 6,500 PBS auxiliary power units (APU). Our SAFIR auxiliary power units can be primarily seen in helicopters worldwide in several developed versions and modifications.

What is the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for Airplanes?

While the engines are the most vital part of an aircraft, there's another component that plays a crucial role in providing power, especially during ground operations. It's called the Auxiliary Power Unit or APU.

The APU is a small gas turbine engine that's typically located in the tail section of the aircraft. It's used to provide electrical power, compressed air, and hydraulic power while the aircraft is on the ground and the main engines are shut down.

When an aircraft is parked at the gate, it needs to have power for a variety of systems, such as air conditioning, lights, and communications equipment. The APU provides this power, allowing the aircraft to operate without relying on external power sources.

So how does the APU work?

 Well, it's essentially a small gas turbine engine that's connected to a generator. The engine takes in fuel and air, which is compressed and ignited. This creates a stream of hot gases that spins a turbine, which in turn powers the generator. The generator produces electricity, which is used to power the aircraft's systems.

 How Auxiliary Power Units Work

APU engine.

* Honeywell 331-500

Aircraft systems explained

* Auxiliary power unit

* Electrical load management system

Major components covered.

* Main and APU battery, power distribution panel, APU engine, air inlet duct, inlet door, apu dc pump, electric actuator, fuel cluster, ignition unit, igniter plug and APU controller.

* Reverse flow annular combustor, centrifugal compressor, axial flow turbine, swirler, fuel nozzle, accessory gearbox, electric starter, pawl clutch mechanism, impeller, diffuser, stator, rotor, exhaust duct and fuel manifolds.

We have installed over 6,500 PBS auxiliary power units (APU). Our SAFIR auxiliary power units can be primarily seen in helicopters worldwide in several developed versions and modifications.

What is the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for Airplanes?

While the engines are the most vital part of an aircraft, there's another component that plays a crucial role in providing power, especially during ground operations. It's called the Auxiliary Power Unit or APU.

The APU is a small gas turbine engine that's typically located in the tail section of the aircraft. It's used to provide electrical power, compressed air, and hydraulic power while the aircraft is on the ground and the main engines are shut down.

When an aircraft is parked at the gate, it needs to have power for a variety of systems, such as air conditioning, lights, and communications equipment. The APU provides this power, allowing the aircraft to operate without relying on external power sources.

So how does the APU work?

 Well, it's essentially a small gas turbine engine that's connected to a generator. The engine takes in fuel and air, which is compressed and ignited. This creates a stream of hot gases that spins a turbine, which in turn powers the generator. The generator produces electricity, which is used to power the aircraft's systems.