What Is an Integrated Drive Generator in an Aircraft?
The integrated drive generator system has been around for decades and is the critical component in powering flight instruments and running your plane smoothly. It controls all of the engine hydraulic systems and ensures they operate at their peak efficiency so you can take off quickly with little or no issues. The IDG is an efficient and clean power source. It has an AC generator and constant speed drive (CSD) in one housing, making it very efficient with its energy usage.
Since the IDG plays a vital role in powering an aircraft's key components, you cannot take a chance with such a system. The role of the CSD here is to maintain the constant output speed necessary to keep the generator running. The CSD uses controlled differential action to perform this function. This blog will discuss the integrated drive generator system in detail with its function and how you can service it properly for its reliability.
What is an Integrated Drive Generator (IDG)?
The engine's cooling and lubrication system are vital to its operation. Hydraulic fluid such as oil helps regulate temperature. Fluids play a massive role in how well the generator rotates because of its crucial function in controlling the CSD and its mechanical rotational speed.
The integrated drive generator (IDG) is incredibly reliable because it is driven by an external engine accessory gearbox, accessible in nacelles. The quality of oil used for this piece can have a tremendous impact on how effective and cleanly operating the IDG is; ensuring there are no dirty substances or other particles mixed into its contents to significantly increase efficiency.
The sight glass is a transparent tube that allows you to observe your oil level. The sight glass also has an indicator symbol, that of which will display whether there is enough oil in the tank or not.
While operating various aircraft systems, checking the aircraft maintenance manual (AMM) may be a valuable source of information about contamination. You may also know how it can affect the particular airplane type or model's performance in different ways, ranging from causing premature filter failure to excessive wear - eventually resulting in the IDG overheating.
We recommend using a new oil can each time the IDG is serviced. This will ensure your equipment operates at peak performance, and keeps it from getting dirty or clogged up with residue, which could lead to significant problems down the line.
How does the IDG system work?
The IDG oil system consists of the following components.
- IDG
- External cooling circuits
- IDG oil cooler
The IDG has a straightforward course of operation: the heated oil is pumped out of the IDG pressure fill port, through the filter, and into the external circuit before it goes to the oil cooler to cool down. The cold oil flows back in the IDG case. When the oil level reaches its maximum point, it flows outside the IDG through an overflow drain port. The top margin of this sight glass corresponds to where you will see green banding.
The core purpose behind this servicing procedure is to ensure that all cavities in the IDG circuit are filled with oil to eliminate any air pockets. The reason is, if there is too much liquid present in the IDG, it could lead to an increase in operating temperature and even possible disengagement during flight. When you have low pressure or electrical frequency fluctuations within your engine system, it can cause generator losses, making flying hazardous. The extra burden on maintenance and flight crews comes from a condition known as 'low oil level detection.' If an aircraft has this feature, it may generate warning lights or even cause significant issues for operation.
Important Things to Note Before Servicing an IDG
Be careful when dealing with engine components shortly after they are shut down. Engine parts, including IDGs, can remain heated for up to an hour after its use and are susceptible to high temperatures as well. This metal piece emits intense heat, and scalding oil may burn your skin or eyes if you are not protected adequately with goggles/gloves – such accidents require severe medical attention.
Operating the IDG can be more daunting than other power tools, but it is easy once you know what to do. For instance, do not operate the IDG if there is too much or no oil present, and make sure that you use new fuel from clean vented containers to avoid contaminants interfering with you achieving the best results.
Aerospace Buying is operated by ASAP Semiconductor LLC. We are a premier supply chain partner, networking across the US and abroad with specialization in aviation, civil aircraft, and MRO parts. Aerospace Buying distributes aircraft parts online to your doorstep in one click. You can find over 2 billion parts, many with next-day shipping, and even track your order at every step of the purchasing process.
