Test Process

All test procedures follow a test plan and a coordinated checklist. The operator can use either the right or left operator’s station. With the center mounted throttle quadrant and control panels, the operator can choose the more comfortable of the two positions for operating the system. Observers or witnesses can bring their own laptop computers to the OCB and connect to the system network. They can monitor the progress of the testing and even log their own copy of the data collected by the system. This is done without any impact on the safe and reliable operation of the ATD system. Engine test operations are conducted by fully trained and qualified operators and support personnel. The test operators are all U. S. Air Force trained and qualified engine operators. They all have substantial experience in engine testing with the Air Force and with commercial engine operations. Each operator is trained and qualified by FTA for the specific test setup. A testing efficiency of 85% is normally achieved. This value is based upon FTA experience and upon customer suggestions. Factors that affect efficiency include:

• Down time for borescope inspections.
• Calibration Runs.
• Downtime for facility repair/maintenance.
• Downtime for engine or system repair/maintenance; and Weather conditions.

After the data has been logged onto the Data Workstation computer, post-processing functions are conducted. Post processing will accomplish the following tasks:

• Perform Post processing functions that prepare engineering values;
• Make predetermined data presentations in graphical and tabular formats;
• Write a copy of the data in PWC data format;
• Write selected data in MS Excel and MS Access formats; and
• Prepare a CD-ROM with all of the above written to it.
• Archived CD-ROMs will be kept and daily-reporting CD-ROMS forwarded to the customer’s engineering staff.