Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in

applying relevant OHS procedures

using relevant maintenance documentation and aircraft manuals to

recognise through visualphysical inspection external signs of defects in the rotor rotor head tail rotor and flight control mechanical system components

ground test the rotor and control system and recognise correct function

rig and adjust rotor controls and systems

using fault diagnosis guides and equivalent data to accurately and efficiently troubleshoot the causes of unserviceabilities in rotor control systems clearly record details and identify the required rectification actions

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of

fault diagnosis techniques

standard trade practices relating to tool and testrigging equipment usage

theory of flight

airflow

conditions of flight

lift and forces

drag

rotary flight principles

terminology relating to

aerofoils

main rotor blades

rotor discs

rotors main and tail

aerodynamic characteristics

aerofoil design

forces

rotor thrust and power requirements

vortex ring

autorotation

helicopter stability

helicopter dynamic components

main rotors

blades

heads

linkages

tail rotors

swash plates

transmissions and drive shafts

clutches and freewheeling units

system and component operation including electrical and instrument system interfaces

cyclic pitch control

collective pitch control

tail rotor control

mechanical and powered control systems

engine control interface

torque reaction and antitorque devices

engine indication

vibration monitoring

helicopter maintenance procedures and troubleshooting

relevant maintenance manuals

relevant regulatory requirements and standard procedures including requirements for engine and rotor system operation

relevant OHS practices

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria required skills and knowledge range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to apply hand skills use maintenance publications and rotor and rotor control system theory knowledge to inspect test and troubleshoot rotors and their control systems on rotary wing aircraft while applying all relevant safety precautions

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The underlying skills inherent in this unit should be transferable across a range of inspection testing and troubleshooting applications including the timely involvement of supervisors or other trades associated with the rotor control systems It is essential that testing procedures take into account all safety precautions associated with ground testing of rotor and rotor control systems and that awareness be demonstrated of dual inspection requirements associated with work on control systems

Evidence of transferability of skills and knowledge related to inspection testing and troubleshooting is essential This may be demonstrated through application across a number of aircraft types Ability to interpret inspection procedures and specifications allowable limits and apply them in practice is critical The application of ground testing procedures should also clearly indicate knowledge of system operation System operation knowledge the relationship of individual components and the links with other systems will be necessary to supplement evidence of ability to troubleshoot the system within the limits of the aircraftsystem fault finding guide before undertaking any action The work plan should take account of applicable safety and quality requirements in accordance with the industry and regulatory standards

A person cannot be assessed as competent until it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the workplace assessor that the relevant elements of the unit of competency are being achieved under routine supervision on at least one item from each of Groups to as listed in the Range Statement This shall be established via the records in the Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement or where appropriate an equivalent Industry Evidence Guide

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency should be assessed in the work environment or simulated work environment using tools and equipment specified in aircraft maintenance manuals It is also expected that general purpose tools test and ground support equipment found in most routine situations would be used where appropriate The level of troubleshooting is limited in its application to the use of fault diagnosis guides or other similar information

Method of assessment

Functional testing of rotors and rotor control systems with engines running may be carried out with the applicant directing a pilot qualified on type

Guidance information for assessment

Individuals being assessed who have already attained MEAA Maintain basic rotary wing aircraft systems will have satisfied the requirements of this unit with regard to common Range Statement variables Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement records relating to MEAA Maintain basic rotary wing aircraft systems may be accepted as also meeting the evidence requirements for this unit in the applicable common areas

Individuals being assessed who have already attained MEA352A Maintain basic rotary wing aircraft systems, will have satisfied the requirements of this unit with regard to common Range Statement variables. Log of Industrial Experience and Achievement records relating to MEA352A Maintain basic rotary wing aircraft systems, may be accepted as also meeting the evidence requirements for this unit in the applicable common areas.

Note

Rotor and rotor control system

Troubleshooting

Procedures and requirements