Airstarters play an important role in ground support today. Large turbine driven engines are not started like standard internal combustion motors. In fact, it takes special equipment to deliver the necessary compressed air to a jet engine. This is why choosing the right airstarters is vital.
Why Are Airstarters so Important?
Without an airstarter the first engine on a large jet cannot be started. With aircraft, weight is one of the most essential elements, as is efficiency. The starting units on large jet engines are made to work with compressed air. This is what starts the turbine rotating.
A motorized starter would be inefficient because it takes so long for the engine to start, the unit would probably burn itself out. For example, the turbine must increase its RPMS before ignition and then fuel can be applied, and this takes time. These problems are solved with airstarters.
Finding the Right Model Airstarter
When you look for the right unit, choose a company which offers the most options. For instance, some companies may only provide leasing and others may offer new or used equipment. When you choose a company who can provide leasing, refurbished equipment, and new equipment, you have the most choices. This way, you are sure to find something to meet your operating budget and technical needs.
Trailer Mounted Airstarter Units
When shopping for airstarters, trailer mounted A grade units may be the best option. They are very dependable and many are capable of starting diesel and gas turbines. In addition, you can save space with these models because they are relatively compact. Many airports are choosing models from TLD or Stewart and Stevenson, as they are known for their high quality, powerful units.
Wide-Bodied Engine Airstarters
Wide bodied aircraft have special needs when it comes to starting. This is why you should make sure your airstarter can handle the needs of these planes. You may need to talk to your provider about the best model available. Once you have the right service, you have a dependable source of advice and information about your equipment.
Should You Rent or Purchase?
There are good points with either strategy when it comes to equipment. When you rent, your rental company can take of your maintenance and this can increase efficiency and decrease the number of maintenance personnel on your payroll.
There is one more option which is sometimes overlooked. A top quality supplier of airstarts also provides complete reconditioning services. This may be the most cost effective strategy for equipment maintenance.