The Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) has approved the use of Infrared Thermography testing by Jet Aviation. The technique is the sixth non-destructive testing (NDT) technique the FOCA has approved for Jet Aviation.
“Jet Aviation is committed to innovation, quality, and service excellence. Infrared thermography is just one more way our teams of professionals enable global flight, with passion.”
Cyril Martiniere, Vice President MRO Services Europe & GM Basel
The technique’s use mostly occurs during scheduled maintenance, and is most effective on composite materials. Infrared Thermography can detect:
- delamination
- defective bonding
- water ingress
- corrosion
- material thinning
Infrared Thermography detects heat from an object. The sensitive equipment shows an image of heat distribution. Using this image, engineers can test structural integrity of parts.
“Like all NDT techniques, Infrared Thermography provides a non-invasive means of detecting problems before they escalate and potentially cause catastrophic results. For example, it can detect water collecting in the elevators or rudder, which could then be addressed to prevent the in-flight freezing and expansion that might lead to ruptures.”
Frédéric Westpalm van Hoorn, Senior Manager of Basel’s NDT and Components Shops.
Base Expansion
Jet Aviation began their Basel NDT operation in 1991. Alongside Infrared Thermography, the facility can carry out liquid penetrant, X-Ray, magnetic particle, eddy current and ultrasonic testing.
“We have been inspecting aircraft components and structures with NDT techniques for 30 years in Basel and are delighted to expand our service capabilities with this approval for infrared thermography,”
Frédéric Westpalm van Hoorn, Senior Manager of Basel’s NDT and Components Shops.
The Basel base can also carry out aircraft fitment. This includes Cabin design, manufacturing and installation. Additionally, the facility has the capability to paint aircraft, with livery design completed in house.
