Health and Usage Monitoring Systems HUMS

Health and usage monitoring systems are a commonmajor component or system failure.
component in the flight deck avionics of a modernPressure measurement: a tendency to over-pressure
aircraft. The parameters which may be monitored byor low pressure may be an indication of impending
health and usage monitoring systems are extensivefailure or a loss of vital system fluids.
and may depend to some degree upon the preciseAcceleration: higher acceleration readings than normal
engine/gearbox/rotor configuration. Listed below is amay indicate that a component has been
range of typical parameters together with the reasonoverstressed or that abnormal wear is occurring. The
for their use.use of low-cycle fatigue algorithms may indicate blade
Speed probes and tachometer generators: thefatigue which could result in blade failure.
measurement of speed is of importance to ensureParticle detection: metal particle detection may
that a rotating component does not exceed limitsindicate higher than normal metal composition in an
with the risk of being overstressed.engine or gearbox oil system resulting from abnormal
Temperature measurement: exceeding temperatureor excessive wear of a bearing which could fail if left
limits or a tendency to run hot is often a prelude to aunchecked.