FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP)Engine InspectionMedium
A mechanic is inspecting a magnetic chip detector plug removed from an engine's oil sump. What type of debris will this device specifically attract and trap for inspection?
- AFerrous metal particles such as steel and iron
- BOnly nonferrous metal particles such as aluminum and bronze
- CCarbon deposits from combustion byproducts
- DWater contamination in the oil system
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Ferrous metal particles such as steel and iron
A magnetic chip detector uses a magnet to attract and hold ferrous (iron/steel) particles suspended in the oil, providing an early warning of wear in steel components like gears and bearings. It will not attract nonferrous materials.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Magnets attract ferrous, not nonferrous, materials.
- C. Carbon deposits are not magnetic and would not be trapped by this device.
- D. Water contamination is not captured by a magnetic detector; it's checked separately.
Magnetic Chip Detector
A magnetized plug installed in the oil system that attracts and retains ferrous metal particles for early wear detection.
- Only attracts ferrous (iron/steel) debris
- Often has an electrical warning circuit to alert pilots in flight
- Regularly inspected during maintenance for buildup of metal particles
Memory trick: 'Magnets love iron, ignore everything else'