FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP)Turbine EnginesHard
A turbofan engine's fan case incorporates a heavy Kevlar or steel containment ring surrounding the fan blade path. What is the primary purpose of this structural feature?
- ATo contain fragments of a fan blade if one fails, preventing them from penetrating the fuselage or wing
- BTo reduce fan noise during takeoff
- CTo provide anti-icing heat to the fan blades
- DTo improve fan aerodynamic efficiency at cruise
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. To contain fragments of a fan blade if one fails, preventing them from penetrating the fuselage or wing
The fan containment case is a certification requirement (per 14 CFR Part 33) designed to contain a released fan blade and its fragments within the engine nacelle, preventing damage to the aircraft structure, fuel tanks, or control systems in the event of a blade failure.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Noise reduction is achieved by acoustic liners, not the containment ring's structural purpose.
- C. Anti-icing is provided by bleed air ducting to the nose cone and inlet, not the containment ring.
- D. Aerodynamic shaping of the fan case has little to do with the containment ring's strength design.
Fan Blade Containment
A structural design requirement where the fan case is built to contain a fan blade failure, preventing debris from exiting the engine and damaging the aircraft.
- Required by 14 CFR Part 33 certification standards
- Made of Kevlar wrap or heavy steel/titanium
- Prevents uncontained failure events
Memory trick: Think of the fan case as a bulletproof vest for a broken fan blade.