C-130 QEC (Quick Engine Change) Kit
“QEC (Quick Engine Change) Program”
High Performance Protective Packaging Proven Solution
Application
The QEC (Quick Engine Change) Program was developed for the Hercules C-130 Aircraft. It enables owners & operators of the aircraft to swap engine(s) in need of maintenance with an engine(s) that has been overhauled and preserved. Once overhauled; an engine must be preserved at less than 40% relative humidity to prevent corrosion until it is ready for use.
Solution
Heritage Packaging designed and fabricates removable; yet hermetic, covers constructed of CEPAC HD-200 barrier material that envelop the engine while it is mounted on a mobile engine stand. An airtight zipper allows easy access to the engine for quick part swaps or changing desiccants. One-way valves are installed in the cover and allow simple interior environment evacuation and nitrogen flushing for fast re-preservation.
Testing
Prototypes were tested by preserving an engine on its mobile stand and monitoring internal humidity levels. The preservation process occurred as follows; cover installation; desiccant placement; first vacuum drawn; nitrogen purging; second vacuum drawn; and finally periodic monitoring for 180 days.
Results
Humidity level readings were consistently below 30% with no corrosion occurring. Thus, the covers were deemed a great success. They provide a certified method for parties involved in maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the aircraft to preserve engines at a fraction of the cost of previously utilized methods. With the HP QEC Cover System in use the mobility of the engine stand is not compromised, thereby increasing storage options.
