Vibration sensor configuration optimization for the AV-8B F402-RR-408 engine

The Marine Corps has identified that the operational reliability and availability of the AV-8B attack aircraft could be improved through better fault diagnostics and health management of its F402-RR-408 gas turbine engine. The effectiveness of the engine maintenance program is directly related to the robustness of the engine condition monitoring approach. The Condition-Based Maintenance department at the Applied Research Laboratory was focused on identifying optimum vibration sensor positions, determining the number and type of sensors, and providing signal processing recommendations for effective engine health monitoring. The project results reveal that sensor locations can be optimized and advanced signal processing can be used to improve the data quality resulting in an improved ability to assess engine condition. This information will reduce inappropriate or unnecessary maintenance actions due to misdiagnosis of engine problems, and the improved condition assessment techniques will help the Marine Corps increase overall aircraft availability and reliability.