News Review: DSTO software to balance C-130J propellers | ADM Dec 2010/Jan 2011

DSTO has developed software for RAAF C-130J Hercules aircraft to vastly improve the process of dynamic balancing of propellers to reduce vibration levels.

It has proved so useful that with the exception of the United States which is still reviewing the terms of the software licence, all current C-130J users (UK, Italy, Denmark, Canada and Norway) will soon start using the software, according to DSTO. 

To develop the initial concept, DSTO scientists working with 37 Sqn engineers at RAAF Richmond, NSW, carried out a flight test program on an Air Force C-130J aircraft.  

The results were used to develop an algorithm that together with data obtained from existing onboard sensors, provided a propeller balance solution.

Data can now be acquired during normal flight operations. 

”We found an advanced engine monitoring capability that was active but wasn’t being used,” DSTO scientist Brian Rebbechi, said.

“Access to this capability required no modification or change to aircraft hardware or software – only a tool to extract and decode data from a data bank recorded during every flight.” 

Balancing will now take two hours without the need for engine ground runs.

Previously balancing required up to five maintenance staff, up to two days, and multiple ground runs.

The software has the potential for ongoing savings for the RAAF of over $2 million worth of maintenance hours and fuel savings over the life of the aircraft and frees up personnel and aircraft for other tasks.