AD 2021-05-08
Recurring
final rule
Applicability
| Type | Manufacturer | Model | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| engine | Safran Helicopter Engines S.A. | Arriel 2C | Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines |
| engine | Safran Helicopter Engines S.A. | Arriel 2C1 | Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines |
| engine | Safran Helicopter Engines S.A. | Arriel 2S1 | Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines |
| engine | Safran Helicopter Engines S.A. | Arriel 2S2 | Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines |
Unsafe Condition
cracks were found on the soldered joints of torque conformation boxes, which could lead to engine in-flight shutdown, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Required Actions
performing initial and repetitive inspections of the resistance values of the torque conformation box and, depending on the results of the inspections, replacement of the torque conformation box.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Compliance Time
Within 50 flight hours
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Affected Aircraft
all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1, and 2S2 model turboshaft engines.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Federal Register Abstract
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1, and 2S2 model turboshaft engines. This AD was prompted by investigations by the manufacturer following level 1 failures in flight (minor anomalies) and level 2 failures on the ground (minor failures), where cracks were found on the soldered joints of torque conformation boxes. This AD requires performing initial and repetitive inspections of the resistance values of the torque conformation box and, depending on the results of the inspections, replacement of the torque conformation box. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Applicability Source Text
Show captured applicability text from the source AD
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type
Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1,
and 2S2 model turboshaft engines.
Document Text
Show stored source text (verify against official source)
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 46 (Thursday, March 11, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 13807-13809]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-05046]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-1118; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00516-E;
Amendment 39-21451; AD 2021-05-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type
Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1, and 2S2 model
turboshaft engines. This AD was prompted by investigations by the
manufacturer following level 1 failures in flight (minor anomalies) and
level 2 failures on the ground (minor failures), where cracks were
found on the soldered joints of torque conformation boxes. This AD
requires performing initial and repetitive inspections of the
resistance values of the torque conformation box and, depending on the
results of the inspections, replacement of the torque conformation box.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 15,
2021.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., Avenue du 1er Mai, Tarnos,
France; phone: +33 (0) 5 59 74 45 11. You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational
Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781)
238-7759. It is also available at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1118.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1118; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments
received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer,
ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone:
(781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6f180a080041180e01082f090e0e41080019"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="bbccdedcd495ccdad5dcfbdddada95dcd4cd">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Safran Helicopter
Engines, S.A. Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1, and 2S2 model turboshaft engines.
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on
[[Page 13808]]
December 10, 2020 (85 FR 79438). The NPRM was prompted by
investigations by the manufacturer following level 1 failures in flight
(minor anomalies) and level 2 failures on the ground (minor failures),
where cracks were found on the soldered joints of torque conformation
boxes. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require performing initial and
repetitive inspections of the resistance values of the torque
conformation box and, depending on the results of the inspections,
replacement of the torque conformation box. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these products.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has
issued EASA AD 2019-0110, dated May 21, 2019 (referred to after this as
``the MCAI''), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The
MCAI states:
It was reported that, during investigations following level 1
failures in flight (minor anomalies) and level 2 failures on the
ground (minor failures), cracks were found on the soldered joints of
certain torque conformation boxes. Although no events in operation
were reported of One Engine Inoperative (OEI) ratings maximum power
unavailability, the failure mode analysis for these boxes
demonstrated that such event could not be excluded. This condition,
if not detected and corrected, could lead to engine in-flight shut-
down, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter.
To address this potential unsafe condition, SAFRAN Helicopter
Engines issued the SB [Service Bulletin], to provide instructions
for repetitive checks of the box resistance values. For the reasons
described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive checks of the
affected part and, depending on findings, replacement of the
affected part with a serviceable part.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by searching for and locating
Docket No. FAA-2020-1118.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments
The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety
requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Safran Helicopter Engines Mandatory Service
Bulletin (MSB) No. 292 72 2868, Version A, dated December 2018. This
service information specifies procedures for performing an inspection
of the resistance values of the torque conformation box. This service
information is reasonably available because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course of business or by the means
identified in ADDRESSES.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 257 engines installed on
helicopters of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspect resistance values of the 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $21,845
torque conformation box. hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary
replacement that would be required based on the results of the
inspections. The agency has no way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need this replacement:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace the torque conformation box........... 1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85 $1,841 $1,926
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate.
According to the manufacturer, however, some of the costs of this AD
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on
affected individuals.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
[[Page 13809]]
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2021-05-08 Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate
previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.): Amendment 39-21451; Docket No.
FAA-2020-1118; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00516-E.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 15, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type
Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1,
and 2S2 model turboshaft engines.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7712, Engine BMEP/
Torque Indicating.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by investigations by the manufacturer
following level 1 failures in flight (minor anomalies) and level 2
failures on the ground (minor failures), where cracks were found on
the soldered joints of torque conformation boxes. The FAA is issuing
this AD to prevent failure of the torque conformation box. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the
engine, in-flight shutdown, and loss of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) For engines with the torque conformation box in pre-
modification TU 34 configuration, installed on Arriel 2C and 2C1
model turboshaft engines; pre-modification TU 34 or post-
modification TU 188 configuration, installed on Arriel 2S1 model
turboshaft engines; or post-modification TU 188 configuration,
installed on Arriel 2S2 model turboshaft engines:
(i) Within 600 engine hours (EHs) or 180 days after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, perform an
initial inspection of the resistance values of the torque
conformation box.
Note 1 to paragraph (g)(1)(i): You may delay the initial
inspection by up to 60 EHs to align with other scheduled maintenance
tasks.
(ii) Thereafter, perform repetitive inspections of the
resistance values of the torque conformation box before exceeding
600 EHs since the last inspection of the resistance values of the
torque conformation box.
(2) Use the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.3.2 or
4.3.2, of Safran Helicopter Engines Mandatory Service Bulletin No.
292 72 2868, Version A, dated December 2018, to perform the
inspections of the resistance values of the torque conformation box
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
(3) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of
this AD, a non-conforming resistance value is found, before further
flight, remove the torque conformation box from service and replace
it with a part eligible for installation.
(h) Definition
For the purpose of this AD, a ``part eligible for installation''
is a zero hour torque conformation box or a torque conformation box
that has been inspected as required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR
39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of the person
identified in Related Information. You may email your request to:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d3929d96fe9297fe929e9c9093b5b2b2fdb4bca5"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="63222d264e22274e222e2c20230502024d040c15">[email protected]</span></a>.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(j) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang,
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199;
email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c6b1a3a1a9e8b1a7a8a186a0a7a7e8a1a9b0"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="3f485a585011485e51587f595e5e11585049">[email protected]</span></a>.
(2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2019-0110, dated May 21, 2019, for more information. You may examine
the EASA AD in the AD docket at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1118.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Safran Helicopter Engines Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 292
72 2868, Version A, dated December 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Safran Helicopter Engines service information identified
in this AD, contact Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., Avenue du 1er
Mai, Tarnos, France; phone: +33 (0) 5 59 74 45 11.
(4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (781) 238-7759.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#701615140215175e1c1517111c301e1102115e171f06"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="8debe8e9ffe8eaa3e1e8eaece1cde3ecffeca3eae2fb">[email protected]</span></a>, or go to: <a href="https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html">https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html</a>.
Issued on February 19, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-05046 Filed 3-10-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
Source: Official FAA Source ↗
Retrieved: Apr 4, 2026
Rights: U.S. Government Public Domain
This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA. Always verify with official sources.
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