RAMP & TRANSIT

BOEING 737-800

NGS
OBJETIVO

• Detallar y describir el funcionamiento de

los componentes del sistema NGS.

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B737-800 Ramp & Transit
CONTENIDO

 Introduction
 Thermal Control Unit
 Air Separation Unit
 NEA Distribution System
 NGS Control

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4
NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM (NGS) - INTRODUCTION

Purpose
The Nitrogen Generation System (NGS) reduces the oxygen content of the air mixture in the
center tank to a level which will not support combustion.

General
The system does these functions:
• Controls the air pressure into the system
• Changes the ozone in the air to oxygen
• Decreases the temperature of the air
• Removes contamination from the air
• Removes oxygen from the air
• Supplies nitrogen enriched air to the center tank
• Does a check of system performance.
The Nitrogen Generation System has these subsystems:
• Thermal control unit (TCU)
• Nitrogen generation
• Distribution
• Control
• Indication

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM (NGS) - INTRODUCTION
The TCU has components in the left ECS compartment and in the left ram air duct compartment.
The nitrogen generation components are in the left ram air duct compartment. The nitrogen
enriched air distribution system (NEADS) has components in the left ram air duct compartment,
in the center tank, in the right surge tank, and in the left wheel well. The controller is installed in
the aft forward cargo area. The BITE display unit is in the right ECS compartment. The operability
indicator is in the right wheel well, adjacent to the APU shutoff switch.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

• ASM - air separation module
• BDU - BITE display unit
• BITE - built in test equipment
• CWT - center wing tank
• GSE - ground support equipment
• NEA - nitrogen enriched air
• NEADS - nitrogen enriched air distribution system
• NGS - nitrogen generation system
• PRSOV - pressure regulating and shutoff valve
• OEA - oxygen enriched air
• OTSOV - overtemperature shutoff valve
• RAV - ram air valve
• TCU - thermal control unit

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM (NGS) - INTRODUCTION

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM

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 NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - OPERATION

General
After the takeoff and during the climb, the system operates first in the low-flow mode. The system
goes to the high-flow mode when the NGSC senses an airplane altitude of 15000 ft, measured by
the altitude sensor. The NGS is in the high-flow mode for 10 minutes or until the cruise mode is
set. This is to warm up the system before the O2 sensor builtin-test (BIT). The warm up lets the
ASM become stable before the test starts. After the test the NGSC gives 10 minutes for the system
to get and record O2 data. The NGSC compares O2 levels with maximum satisfactory performance
tables installed into the NGSC software. If the 02 indications are higher than the maximum
satisfactory levels, the test is a failure and the NGSC records the data.

NOTE: If the flight is lower than 15,000 feet, or the test is not completed before reaching cruise
altitude, the test occurs during the descent. The NGS operates in the low-flow mode during cruise
flight. The highflow valve is closed, and NEA goes to the center fuel tank from the ASM through
the low-flow orifice. NGS uses the low-flow mode during cruise flight to decrease the
requirements of bleed air. The NGS operates in the high-flow mode during the descent to
pressurize the center fuel tank with NEA. The NGS high-flow valve opens by a signal from the
NGSC. NEA goes through the high flow and low flow orifices to pressurize the center fuel tank.
When the airplane lands the NGS changes from the high-flow mode to the low-flow mode. The
NGS operates in the low-flow mode on the ground for 10 minutes. When the left flow control and
shutoff valve (FCSOV) closes before 10 minutes the NGS does not start again when the FCSOV

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 NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - OPERATION

opens. When the airplane completes 10 minutes, the system goes to the cooldown mode. There is
no flow through the system during the cooldown mode. The NGS cooldown mode prevents
damage to the NGS heat exchanger. Ram air flow will not go to the heat exchanger. This prevents a
thermal shock from a fast cooldown. The NGS cooldown mode keeps the NGS SOV open and closes
the OTSOV. This lets system pressure go to the RAV to keep the valve closed. There is no ram air
flow at this time. After the NGS cooldown mode of 30 minutes stops, the NGS SOV closes. The RAV
goes from full closed to full open with spring force.

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - OPERATION

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 NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

General
The nitrogen generation system uses bleed air from the left side of the pneumatic
manifold. The NGS shutoff valve controls the airflow from the manifold. The NGS controller uses
system pressure and voltage to control the NGS shutoff valve.

Operation
The nitrogen generation system gets bleed air from the left side of the pneumatic
manifold. A sensor on the bleed air duct sends pressure data to the NGS controller. The controller
adjusts the NGS shutoff valve. The NGS shutoff valve controls the pressure that comes into the
system.
Bleed air goes through the catalytic converter to change the ozone in the air to oxygen.
Ozone can decrease the performance and mechanical properties of the air separation module. The
heat exchanger uses ram air to decrease the bleed air temperature to 160 degrees +/- 10 deg F.
The ram air valve adjusts the quantity of cool air that goes through the heat exchanger.
The temperature sensor sends temperature data to the controller. The controller adjusts the ram
air valve. The filter removes contamination before the air goes into the air separation module. A
differential pressure sensor monitors the filter.

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 NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The air separation module decreases the oxygen in the air below the quantity necessary
to support combustion. The air separation module removes oxygen from the air and releases it
overboard. Nitrogen enriched air (NEA) goes through the high flow valve to the center tank. The
high flow valve controls the quantity of NEA that goes to the center tank.
The controller uses data from the altitude sensor, differential pressure sensor, and
airplane systems to open or close the valve. The NEA distribution system (NEADS) sends NEA to the
center wing tank. NEA goes into the tank through an ejector nozzle in the climb vent in the left
part of the tank. A float valve in the right part of the tank makes sure that the concentration of
NEA is constant.
A cross vent check valve makes sure that ambient air does not dilute the nitrogen
concentration in the center tank during the descent. The controller monitors and controls system
operating temperatures and pressures. An operability indicator gives a visual indication of the
condition of the system. You use the BITE display unit to do a test of the system. You use the GSE
connection to do a test of the oxygen quantity of the air downstream of the ASM.

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM (NGS) - INTRODUCTION

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OXYGEN SENSOR:

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - COMPONENT LOCATION - 1

Thermal Control Unit

These thermal control unit components are in the forward part of the left side air conditioning
compartment:
• Pressure sensor
• NGS shutoff valve
• Ozone converter
These thermal control unit components are in the left ram-air duct bay. They are outboard of the
left air conditioning compartment:
• Heat exchanger
• Ram-air valve
• Filter
• Filter differential pressure switch
• Temperature sensor
• Thermal switch

Nitrogen Generation System

These NGS components are in the left ram-air duct compartment.
• Oxygen Sensor
• High Flow Orifice

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - COMPONENT LOCATION - 1

• Air Separation Unit (ASU)

Air Separation Unit (ASU)

The ASU consists of the following components:
• Air Separation Module (ASM)
• High Flow Valve (HFV)
• Over Temperature Shutoff Valve (OTSOV)
• Differential Pressure Sensor

Bite Display Unit (BDU)

The BITE display unit is on the right 41 beam adjacent to the forward wall of the air conditioning
compartment. You can get access to it through the right air conditioning bay door.

Operability Indicator
The NGS operability indicator is on the aft bulkhead in the right wheel well, adjacent to the APU
fire control panel. The NGS operability indicator is not functional.

NGS Control System

The NGS controller is in the pressurized mix bay aft of the forward cargo compartment.

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - COMPONENT LOCATION - 1

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - COMPONENT LOCATION - 1

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - COMPONENT LOCATION - 2

Nitrogen Enriched Air Distribution System (NEADS) - Ram Air Duct Compartment
These NEADS components are in the left ram-air duct compartment:
• Secondary backflow prevention check valve
• Drain cap
• O2 GSE port.

Nitrogen Enriched Air Distribution System (NEADS) - Center Tank and Wing Structure
These NEADS components are in the center tank:
• Flame arrestor
• Primary backflow prevention check valve
• Ejector nozzle
• Float valve.
The cross vent check valve is in the right surge tank.

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NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM - COMPONENT LOCATION - 2

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - PRESSURE SENSOR

Purpose
The pressure sensor monitors the bleed air pressure to the nitrogen generation system (NGS). It
gives protection for the air separation module (ASM) and the center fuel tank from an
overpressure condition.

Location
The pressure sensor is on the forward bulkhead of the left air conditioning compartment.

Physical Description
The sensor has pressure sensitive elements hermetically sealed in a housing. Vent holes in the
housing let small water droplets and air exit. t has a pressure sense line and an electrical
connector.

Operation
The NGSC uses data from the pressure sensor to prevent an overpressure in the NGS. When the
bleed air pressure is more than 67 psi, the NGSC closes the NGS shutoff valve (SOV). The
overtemperature shutoff valve (OTSOV) is also closed. This keeps the overpressure from the ASM
and the center fuel tank.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - PRESSURE SENSOR

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Ramp & Transit-MGS Thermal Control Unit
 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT

General
The Nitrogen Generation System (NGS) uses hot bleed air to make Nitrogen Enriched Air (NEA) for
the center tank. The Thermal Control Unit (TCU) controls the bleed air pressure and temperature.
The filter removes contamination that can damage the NGS and fuel system components.

These are the components of the TCU:

• Pressure Sensor
• NGS shutoff valve
• Ozone converter
• Heat exchanger
• Ram air valve
• NGS Filter
• Filter differential pressure switch
• Temperature sensor
• Thermal switch
• Overtemperature Shutoff Valve (OTSOV).

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SHUTOFF VALVE

Purpose
The Nitrogen Generation System (NGS) shutoff valve controls bleed air flow for the NGS.

Location
The NGS shutoff valve is in the forward section of the left air conditioning compartment.

Physical Description
The NGS shutoff valve is an electrically commanded, pneumatically actuated pressure regulating
and shutoff valve. The reference pressure regulator establishes a constant gage pressure. The
butterfly closure element is spring-loaded closed. A double acting, dual area, diaphragm-piston
actuator positions the butterfly by comparing reference pressure to the downstream bleed air
pressure admitted through a downstream sense tube. The solenoid controls the shutoff. The NGS
shutoff valve includes a manual override.

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SHUTOFF VALVE

These are the parts of the NGS shutoff valve:

• Solenoid
• Electrical connector
• Sense lines
• Reference pressure regulator
• Actuator
• Manual override and position indicator
• Manual lock arm
• Lock pin

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SHUTOFF VALVE

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SOV & OZON CONVERTER

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SHUTOFF VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

General
The NGS receives bleed air from the pneumatic manifold. The bleed air travels through
the NGS shutoff valve, into reference pressure regulator. The reference pressure regulator
controls the valve operating pressure to 10 psig (69 kPa). This reference pressure then flows to
the solenoid, which then flows to the opening chamber or is vented. When the controller sends a
signal to close the NGS shutoff valve, the solenoid is de-energized, which closes the butterfly
valve. The de-energized solenoid blocks the reference pressure to the opening chamber of the
actuator.
The existing pressure in the opening chamber is vented through the solenoid vent. With
the reference pressure blocked to the opening chamber, the spring keeps the butterfly valve
closed When the controller sends a signal to open the butterfly valve, the NGS shutoff valve is
energized. This supplies 28V DC power to the solenoid valve.
The energized solenoid closes the solenoid vent and allows the reference pressure into
the opening chamber of the actuator. The reference pressure acting on the diaphragm overcomes
the spring force and causes the butterfly valve to turn to the open position. When an over-
temperature occurs in the NGS, the controller sends a command to close the NGS shutoff valve.
This protects the sensitive equipment downstream from damage.

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SHUTOFF VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

The manual override allows you to disable the NGS shutoff valve. To manually lock the
valve, the manual lock cap is removed to vent the opening chamber. The butterfly valve is
manually overridden and the cap is placed at the manual override location to lock the valve in the
closed position only.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - SHUTOFF VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - OZONE CONVERTER

Purpose
The ozone converter gives protection to the ASM from oxidation of the membrane materials
caused by the ozone. This can cause deterioration of the mechanical properties of the
membrane.

Location
The ozone converter is in the forward section of the left air conditioning compartment.

Physical Description
The ozone converter is a cylindrical container with an air inlet and an air outlet. It has a stainless
steel body with a ferritic chromium steel matrix brazed into the body that is coated with a
catalyst formulation.

Operation
The converter decreases the ozone contents in the air by catalytic conversion to oxygen. When
bleed air goes into the converter, it contacts the hot

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - OZONE CONVERTER

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 NGS - THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - HEAT EXCHANGER

Purpose
The primary function of the heat exchanger is to condition the bleed air to 160.0 ±10.0°F (71.1
±5.6°C). Hot, compressed air, bled from the bleed air system, is cooled by the heat exchanger on
its way to the air separation module (ASM). In addition, the heat exchanger is designed to prevent
hot bleed air from entering the fuel tank in the event of a system double failure.

Location
The heat exchanger is in the left ram air duct compartment, inboard of the ASM.

General Description
The heat exchanger is an aluminum plate-fin, single-pass, crossflow, air-to-air heat exchanger.
Both bleed air and ram air fins are made from aluminum alloy sheet.

Training Information Point

The heat exchanger uses small openings with thin walls and cooling fins for satisfactory
performance. If the openings become dirty or blocked, the performance of the heat exchanger is
decreased. Keep the heat exchanger clean for maximum performance.

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NGS - THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - HEAT EXCHANGER

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - HEAT EXCHANGER

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - AIR FILTER

Purpose
The air filter removes solid and aerosol material that can be in the bleed air. It prevents
contamination of the air separation module (ASM).

Location
The air filter is in the left ram air duct compartment behind the ram air duct access panel.

Functional Description
The NGS air filter assembly is of a two stage design. There is an inner pleated coalescer
filter pack and downstream, an outer high efficiency pleated filter pack. The coalescer stage is
manufactured from layers of high efficiency glass fibre, polyester and stainless steel, all pleated
together into a filter pack. This layer provides the particulate and fluidic separation requirements
to remove large drops, for example, water and hydrocarbon fuels.
This layer uses a repulsion coalescence mechanism coupled with a wicking action, to
provide high efficient coalescence. Fluids are drained through the secondary port. The outer
pleated filter pack consists of layers of very high efficiency glass fibre, polyester and stainless
steel, all pleated together into a filter pack.

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - AIR FILTER

This layer makes sure that the whole filter element gives high efficiency particulate and fluidic
protection to the downstream system components. Separated fluidic contamination is then bled
from the system through screened bleed orifices. Both pleated filter packs are supported by
perforated stainless steel and aluminium shrouds and found in aluminium end caps.
The filter medias and support cores are potted into the end caps using an epoxy resin
based compound. The integrated element assembly, which incorporates the high efficiency filter
and the coalescer is found inside a filter housing which is split using a V-band closure to permit
access for maintenance.
The housing also provides the inlet/outlet port interfaces, location for the bleed orifices
and the aircraft insulation features. The filter assembly also includes an insulation jacket, which
covers the bowl. This jacket is manufactured from polyimide foam and in wire locked to the main
assembly using eyelets that are punched into the jacket. A differential pressure switch is on the
inlet duct to the filter. The differential pressure switch monitors the condition of the filter.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - AIR FILTER

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - RAM AIR VALVE

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - RAM AIR VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

General
The ram air valve (RAV) is an electrically-controlled and pneumatically actuated
modulating valve. It is spring-loaded open. The nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC)
gets inputs from the temperature sensor to keep the air separation module inlet temperature at
160F (71C). The NGSC sends signals to modulate the RAV. It increases or decreases the ram air
flow through the heat exchanger to keep the bleed air temperature at 160F (71C).
Air from the supply port goes into the reference pressure regulator which decreases
pressure to a constant control pressure. When the NGSC makes the torque motor close the valve,
the flapper closes the vent and chamber A pressurizes against spring force. The valve closes.
When the NGSC makes the torque motor open the valve, chamber A vents to ambient.
The spring in the actuator opens the valve. The valve modulates by changing the signal to the
torque motor. This operates the flapper to give different control pressures to chamber A. Change
of this pressure makes the valve modulate.
The manual override and visual position indicator gives manual valve operation and
shows the valve position.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - RAM AIR VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - FILTER AND DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE
SWITCH

Purpose
The filter removes particles and fluid material that can be in the bleed air. This prevents unwanted
contamination of the air separation module (ASM). The differential pressure switch senses
differential pressure across the filter.

Location
The filter and the differential pressure switch are in the left ram air duct compartment.

Physical Description
The NGS filter assembly is a two-stage design. There is an inner pleated coalescer filter pack and
an outer high efficiency pleated filter pack. The filter has a coalescer stage made from layers of
high efficiency glass fibre, polyester and stainless steel, all pleated together into a filter pack. This
layer gives the particle and fluid separation requirements to remove large drops of water, oil,
hydraulic fluid and fuel. The outer pleated filter pack of the filter has layers of very high efficiency
glass fibre, polyester and stainless steel, all pleated together into a filter pack. This layer makes
sure that all of the filter element gives high efficiency particle and fluid separation to the
downstream system components. The differential pressure switch is a snap action single pole,
double throw stainless steel switch. The switch has a high pressure port and a low pressure port.

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - FILTER AND DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE
SWITCH

It also has a hermetically sealed electrical receptacle.

Operation
Air goes through the filter. The filter removes contamination in the air. Isolated fluid
contamination bleeds from the system through drains. The drains have orifices that limit drain air
flow. A differential pressure switch is on the inlet duct to the filter. The switch gets pressure from
the inlet of the filter and a sense line connected to the outlet side of the filter. A pressure
difference of 1.2 psid across the filter operates the switch. This shows that it is necessary to
change the filter. When the pressure difference is less than 0.3 psid, the switch opens. You can
not clean the filter.

NOTE: If the pressure drop across the filter is too much, the operability indicator shows a blue
DEGRADED light.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - FILTER AND DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE
SWITCH

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - THERMAL SWITCH

Purpose
The thermal switch gives back-up temperature protection for the air separation module (ASM)
and center fuel tank. If the nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) or the nitrogen
generation system (NGS) shutoff valve (SOV) has a failure, it gives a secondary way to stop the
NGS.

Location
The thermal switch is in the left ram air duct compartment.

Physical Description
The switch has a probe and an electrical connector, and is hermetically-sealed in a metal housing.

Operation
The switch is normally closed. At a temperature of 280F (138C), the switch opens. When the
switch opens, the overtemperature shutoff valve (OTSOV) closes. This prevents the ASM from an
overheat condition. When the temperature decreases, the switch closes and the OTSOV opens.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - THERMAL SWITCH

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - TEMPERATURE SENSOR

Purpose
The temperature sensor measures the bleed air temperature before it goes into the air separation
module (ASM).

Location
The temperature sensor is in the left ram air duct compartment. It connects to the inlet duct of
the ASM.

Physical Description
The sensor has a dual temperature element. It has a probe and an electrical connector, and is
hermetically sealed in a stainless steel housing.

Operation
The temperature sensor monitors the bleed air temperature that goes into the ASM. It sends
temperature data to the nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC). The NGSC uses the
temperature data to control the ram air valve (RAV). The RAV moves to control the temperature
to 160F (71C). If the temperature is more than 225F (107C), the NGSC removes power to the NGS
SOV and OTSOV. The valves close and make the NGS stop.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - TEMPERATURE SENSOR

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - OVERTEMPERATURE SHUTOFF VALVE

Purpose
The overtemperature shutoff valve (OTSOV) gives back-up temperature protection for the air
separation module (ASM). If the NGS controller (NGSC) or the NGS shutoff valve (SOV) has a
failure, it gives a secondary way to stop the NGS.

Location
The OTSOV is in the left ram air duct compartment.

Physical Description
The OTSOV is constructed of aluminum alloys These are the parts of the OTSOV:
- Solenoid
- Electrical connector
- Valve body.

Operation
The overtemperature shutoff valve is electrically-controlled. It operates by differential pressure.
It is spring-loaded to the closed position.
NOTE: The operability indicator shows an amber INOPERATIVE light if the OTSOV fails open. It
shows a blue DEGRADED light if the OTSOV fails closed or in a transit position.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - OVERTEMPERATURE SHUTOFF VALVE

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 NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - OVERTEMPERATURE SHUTOFF VALVE
- FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
General
The overtemperature shutoff valve (OTSOV) is electrically-controlled and operates by
differential pressure. The valve is spring-loaded closed. When the solenoid de-energizes, the
ambient vent is blocked. The pressures in chambers A and B are equal and the spring keeps the
valve closed.
When the solenoid energizes, chamber A pressure goes to ambient. Pressure in control
chamber B pushes on an area between the valve seat and the seal. This makes the poppet start to
open. When the poppet starts to open, chamber B pressure pushes on the full area of the poppet.
This moves it to the full open position.

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NGS -- THERMAL CONTROL UNIT - OVERTEMPERATURE SHUTOFF VALVE
- FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

General Description
The air separation unit gets temperature controlled air from the thermal control unit.
The air separation unit controls the quantity of nitrogen enriched air (NEA) that goes to the center
fuel tank. These are the components of the air separation unit:
- Air separation module
- Oxygen sensor
- High flow valve
- Differential pressure sensor
- GSE O2 port
- Altitude sensor.
The air separation module (ASM) decreases the oxygen contents in the air to a level that
is too low to support combustion. The oxygen sensor lets the NGSC sample the NEA before it goes
into the center fuel tank. The high flow valve with high and low flow orifices controls the flow of
NEA to the center fuel tank. The nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) gets signals from
the differential pressure sensor and the altitude sensor to control the high flow valve.
The GSE O2 port lets you use test equipment to measure the quantity of O2 in the NEA.
The NGSC uses the altitude sensor to find the flight mode.

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - AIR SEPARATION MODULE

Purpose
The air separation module (ASM) makes Nitrogen Enriched Air (NEA) to send to the
center tank. The NEA mixes with tank air to decrease the oxygen percent to a level
which will not support combustion.

Location
The ASM is in the left ram air duct compartment behind the ram air duct access panel.

Physical Description
The ASM is a permeable fiber membrane bundle contained in an aluminum housing.
The housing is wrapped within an insulation foam, which protects the ASM from
overheating.

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - AIR SEPARATION MODULE

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - AIR SEPARATION MODULE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

Functional Description

The air separation module (ASM) has a membrane of thousands of thin polymer fibers.
Cooled (160 ±10°F (71 ±6°C)) bleed air goes into the ASM through the inlet manifold. The air
goes through the membrane, which removes oxygen molecules, carbon dioxide molecules,
and water from the air. The oxygen enriched air (OEA) flows out of the module to the OEA
exhaust duct. The remaining nitrogen enriched air (NEA) flows out of the air separation
module to the center tank.

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - AIR SEPARATION MODULE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - HIGH FLOW VALVE AND DIFFERENTIAL
PRESSURE SENSOR

Purpose
The high flow valve supplies low flow and high flow NEA to the center fuel tank. The high
flow differential pressure sensor gives data to the nitrogen generation system controller
(NGSC) to monitor the flow modes.

Location
The high flow valve and sensor are in the left ram air duct compartment.

Physical Description
The valve is an electrically controlled and pneumatically operated gate valve. It is spring-
loaded to the closed position (low flow). It is open for the high flow mode. These are the
parts of the high flow valve:
- Electrical connector (for solenoid)
- Solenoid
- Sense line
- Pneumatic actuator
- Valve position indicator
- Low flow orifice
- High flow orifice.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - HIGH FLOW VALVE AND DIFFERENTIAL
PRESSURE SENSOR

A high flow differential pressure sensor connects to the high flow valve. It senses pressure
differences between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve.

Operation
The valve closes in the low flow mode. The nitrogen generation system uses the low flow
mode during the climb and the cruise phases of flight to:
- Conserve bleed air
- Protect the heat exchanger
- Extend the air separation module (ASM) life.
The valve operates in the high flow mode during climb and descent. During climb, the high
flow mode warms the air separation module during the system test. During descent, the high
flow mode gives the airflow necessary to pressurize the center fuel tank with nitrogen
enriched air (NEA). This limits the flow of ambient air into the tank. The NGSC uses data from
these parts for valve position control:
- Differential pressure sensor
- Altitude sensor
- Airplane system data.
NOTE: The operability indicator shows a blue DEGRADED light when the valve fails in any
position.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - HIGH FLOW VALVE AND DIFFERENTIAL
PRESSURE SENSOR

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 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - HIGH FLOW VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION
Functional Description
When the solenoid de-energizes, the vent ports let pressure from the pneumatic
actuator go to ambient. The spring moves the gate to the closed position. Air flow meters
through the low flow orifice and the valve goes to the low flow mode. (Air flow through the
low flow orifice is not shown).
When the solenoid energizes, the air inlet pressure goes to the actuator. The
pressure on the actuator is more than the spring force and moves the gate to the open
position. Air flow meters through the high flow orifice and the valve goes to the high flow
mode. The valve position indicator retracts when the gate is closed and extends when the
gate is open.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - HIGH FLOW VALVE - FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - ALTITUDE SENSOR

Purpose
The altitude sensor senses airplane altitude and sends this data to the nitrogen generation
system controller (NGSC).

Location
The altitude sensor is in the left ram air duct compartment, attached to the filter mounting
bracket.

Physical Description
The sensor has a pressure port that is open to ambient pressure and an electrical connector.

Operation
The altitude sensor changes pressure signals to electrical signals. It sends this data to the
NGSC to find different flight modes. The different flight modes are:
- Climb
- Cruise
- Descent.
NOTE: The operability indicator shows a blue DEGRADED light if the altitude sensor can not
sense flight altitude changes.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - ALTITUDE SENSOR

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - OXYGEN SENSOR

Purpose
The oxygen sensor measures the oxygen content of the NEA during the system check. The
oxygen sensor gives this data to the nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) for the
system condition.

Location
The O2 sensor is in the left ram air duct compartment.

Physical Description
The O2 sensor has a nitrogen enriched air (NEA) inlet connection and an electrical connector.
The NEA inlet line connects at the outlet from the air separation module (ASM). The electrical
connector connects to the NGSC. The O2 sensor is a self-contained, solid-state gas analyzer.

Operation
NEA from the ASM flows into the oxygen sensor across the heads of a pressure transducer
and a positive pressure oxygen sensor. The O2 sensor generates a signal proportional to the
amount of oxygen present in the NEA.
NOTE: The operability indicator shows a blue DEGRADED light if the O2 sensor has an
electrical failure.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
 NGS -- AIR SEPARATION UNIT - OXYGEN SENSOR

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Ramp & Transit-NGS Air Separation Unit
75
NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM-NEADS - GENERAL DESCRIPTION - 1

General
The components of NEADS are in the left ram air compartment and in the fuel
distribution system.
The provisions for the NEADS system are located in the left wheel well and in the
center tank.

Components - Left Ram Air Compartment

These components are in the left ram air bay (View C):
• Ground service equipment (GSE) O2 test port
• Secondary backflow prevention check valve
• Drain cap

Components - Left Wheel Well

These components are in the left wheel well attached to the center tank rear spar (View A):
• NEA 1/2 inch supply line
• Di-electric hose
• Flame arrestor
NOTE: The flame arrestor is capped and sealed at the rear spar.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS NEA Distribution System
NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM-NEADS - GENERAL DESCRIPTION - 1

Components - Center Tank - Left Cheek

These components are in the left cheek of the center tank (View B):
• Primary backflow prevention check valve
• Ejector nozzle

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NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM-NEADS - GENERAL DESCRIPTION - 1

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Ramp & Transit-NGS NEA Distribution System
NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - FLAME ARRESTOR

CROSS VENT CHECK VALVE

The cross vent check valve (CVCV) is in the right surge tank and is usually closed.
During descent, the air pressure in the center tank must be equal to ambient air pressure. The
CVCV prevents ambient air from going into the center tank from the right surge tank. This lets
the NGS pressurize the center tank with NEA. The CVCV opens to let fuel flow to the surge tank
if there is an overfill event.

Float Valve
The float valve is in the right side (cheek) of the center tank. It closes when the center
tank is full of fuel. It opens to make sure that the NEA is in specification when there is air
volume in the center tank. The float valve is attached to the number 12 stringer. You get access
to it through the center tank access door in the right wing.

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Ramp & Transit-NGS NEA Distribution System
NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - FLAME ARRESTOR

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 NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION - 2

General
The right cheek (side) of the center tank has these components:
• Vent channel
• Float valve
The right surge tank has these components:
• Vent channel
• Cross vent check valve (CVCV)

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 NGS -- NEA DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION - 2

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Ramp & Transit-NGS NEA Distribution System
83
NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

General Description
The nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) operates the nitrogen generation
system (NGS). There is no flight compartment indication or control for the NGS. The NGSC and
components get 28v dc control power from bus 2. The NGS gets 28v dc alternate power from
the standby bus when all of these are true:
- Ground logic
- Bus 2 power is not available.
The NGSC gets data from airplane systems to start and stop the NGS. The NGSC sends
and receives data from the NGS components to make sure that the NGS operates satisfactorily.
A light on the operability indicator shows the condition of the NGS operation. The BITE display
unit (BDU) lets you get system data and recorded failures from the NGSC.
The BDU lets you operate the NGS for BITE and system operation checks. These are
the components of the control system:
- NGSC
- Operability indicator
- BDU.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM
CONTROLLER

Purpose
The nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) collects data from the airplane
systems and the nitrogen generation system (NGS) components. The NGSC uses this data to
send signals to operate the NGS.

Location
The NGSC is in the ceiling of the air conditioning distribution compartment.

Physical Description
The NGSC has a single card assembly with an integrated power supply and a
microcontroller. These components are enclosed in a metal case. The case attaches to structure
by shock mounts. On the front of the case are two electrical connectors.

Operation
The NGSC gets data from NGS sensors and from airplane systems. The NGSC uses this
data to operate the NGS. The NGSC does these things:
- Modulates the RAV to control the temperature of the air entering the ASM
- Controls the NGS SOV
- Controls the NGS OTSOV

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM
CONTROLLER

- Controls the high flow valve

- Detects overtemperature conditions
- Detects loss of flow
- Gives fault data to the operability indicator and the BDU.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - NITROGEN GENERATION SYSTEM
CONTROLLER

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - OPERABILITY INDICATOR

General
The operability indicator shows the condition of the nitrogen generation system (NGS).

Location
The indicator is on the aft bulkhead of the right main wheel well. It is adjacent to the remote
APU fire panel (P28).

Physical Description
The operability indicator has three lights that show the condition of the NGS. These are the
lights:
- OPERATIONAL - green
- DEGRADED - blue
- INOPERATIVE - amber.

Operation
The lights on the operability indicator show you the condition of the NGS. The green
OPERATIONAL light shows that the system is serviceable and no maintenance is necessary. The
blue DEGRADED light shows that the system is temporarily serviceable, but in a decreased

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - OPERABILITY INDICATOR

capacity. No maintenance is necessary, but you must record the fault before you release the
airplane. The amber INOPERATIVE light shows that the system is unserviceable. You must
manually close and lock the nitrogen generation system shutoff valve. Record the fault before
you release the airplane. When no lights are on, the operability indicator is not serviceable. Use
the BITE display unit to find the cause of the failure.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - OPERABILITY INDICATOR

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE DISPLAY UNIT

Purpose
You use the BITE display unit (BDU) to troubleshoot the nitrogen generation system (NGS)
components.

Location
The BDU is in the forward section of the right air conditioning compartment. Access to the BDU
is through the right air conditioning compartment.

Physical Description
The BDU has these items:
- BITE instructions
- Two-line vacuum fluorescent display with sixteen alphanumeric characters per line
- BITE button (6).

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE DISPLAY UNIT

Operation
The BDU interfaces with the nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC). You use the 6
buttons on the front of the BDU to do these tasks:
- Get system fault data
- Do initiated BIT checks
- Get system configuration data
- Get discrete data from system components.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE DISPLAY UNIT

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE

General
The nitrogen generation system (NGS) has these BITE functions:
- Nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) continuous monitor BITE tests
- Initiated BITE tests.
NGSC Continuous Monitor BITE Test The NGSC continuously monitors the NGS for correct
operation. The NGSC communicates with the BITE display unit (BDU) through a digital interface.

Operator Initiated BITE Tests

The initiated BITE tests let the operator do tests of components and sensors that have an
interface with the NGS. The BDU has a keypad with six buttons and a two-line display with
sixteen alphanumeric characters for each line. To start the BITE, push the ON/OFF button on the
BDU. EXISTING FAULTS? shows as the first menu item. Push the YES button to answer questions.
Push the NO or the down arrow button to see the next menu item. TOP OF LIST or END OF LIST
shows when you move to the top or bottom of the list. Push the MENU button to go out of a
menu and move up one level to the previous menu.

Main Menu
These are the BITE main menu selections:
- EXISTING FAULTS
- FAULT HISTORY

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE

-GROUND TESTS
-OTHER FUNCTIONS.

EXISTING FAULTS
EXISTING FAULTS shows faults that are present. Faults are maintenance messages for the
primary problem. From the EXISTING FAULTS menu, push the YES button. If there are no faults,
the display shows NO FAULTS FOUND. To go back to he main menu, push the MENU button. If
there is a fault or faults, the first fault shows on the display. To see the next fault, push the NO
or the down arrow button. If there are no more faults, the display shows END OF LIST.

FAULT HISTORY
FAULT HISTORY shows previous faults that are in the memory. From the FAULT HISTORY menu,
push the YES button. If there are no faults, the display shows NO FAULTS FOUND. To go back to
the main menu, push the MENU button. If there are faults, the display shows FLIGHT 01. To
show the next flight leg, push the NO or the down arrow button. Then the display shows the
next flight leg. If there are no more flight legs in memory, the display shows END OF LIST. Each
flight leg can have faults. To show a fault for a flight leg, push the YES button. The display shows
the fault. If you push the NO or the down arrow button, the display shows the next fault. If
there are no more faults, the display shows END OF LIST.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE

GROUND TEST
GROUND TEST does a series of tests of the nitrogen generation system (NGS). From the
GROUND TEST menu, push the NO or the down arrow button. The display shows these tests:
- ELECTRICAL TEST
- SYSTEM TEST
- NGS PERF LOW FLOW
- NGS PERF HI FLOW
- DISPLAY TEST.
When you start a test, TEST IN PROGRESS shows. If the test finds no faults, the display shows
SYSTEM OK. If there is a fault during the test, the display shows EXIST FAULTS for 2 seconds.
Then the display shows the EXISTING FAULTS menu. When you do the DISPLAY TEST, you test all
32 characters of the display. Push the YES button. Eight characters at a time will be on for 2.5
seconds. After the test, the display shows DISPLAY TEST.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE
OTHER FUNCTIONS
OTHER FUNCTIONS shows the specifics of the nitrogen generation system (NGS). From the
OTHER FUNCTIONS menu, push the NO or the down arrow button. The display shows these
functions:
- SYSTEM CONFIG
- I/O MONITOR.

SYSTEM CONFIG
The SYSTEM CONFIG gives this data:
- Hardware part number
- Bootloader part number
- Software part number
- Configuration part number
- Aircraft ID 737NG.

I/O MONITOR
The I/O MONITOR gives this data:
- Analog inputs
- Discrete inputs
- Outputs
- Oxygen sensor.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE DISPLAY UNIT

Functional Description
The nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) does these functions:
- Gets data from the pressure sensor and the temperature sensor to make the NGS shutoff
valve open or close
- Gets data from the pressure sensor and the temperature sensor to make the
overtemperature shutoff valve open or close
- Gets data from the temperature sensor to move the ram air valve. This controls the bleed air
temperature that goes into the air separation module
- Gets data from the altitude sensor to make the high flow valve open or close
- Monitors overtemperature conditions
- Monitors oxygen level in the nitrogen enriched air
- Gives data to the BITE display unit for BITE
- Gets data from the pressure sensor to find when there is no flow
- Gets data from the high flow differential pressure sensor to find correct flow
- Gets a signal from the filter differential pressure switch for the operability indication
- Does electrical built-in-test
- Gives the system condition to the operability indicator
- Records data in non-volatile memory during flight for BITE.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE DISPLAY UNIT

The NGS has 28v dc standby power available when all of these occur:
- Airplane on ground
- 28v dc bus 2 is not available.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - BITE DISPLAY UNIT

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - NGS OPERATION

Operation
The nitrogen generation system controller (NGSC) operates the nitrogen generation system
(NGS). The controller receives these inputs:
- 28v dc power from dc bus 2 or,
- 28v dc power from dc standby bus
- R564 engine 1 run relay
- R563 engine 2 run relay
- R951 center tank refuel valve relay
- R584 system 1 air/gnd relay
- Cargo fire control panel (P8)
- Left flow control and shutoff valve
- NGS interfaces.
The NGSC sends the NGS data to the:
- BITE display unit
- Operability indicator.
The NGSC opens the NGS shutoff valve (SOV) when these conditions are present:
- Airplane in air
- Both engines are operating
- Cargo smoke is not detected

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - NGS OPERATION

- Left flow control and shutoff valve position switch is open

- Center tank refueling valve is closed.
The NGS SOV closes when any of these conditions are present:
- Either engine is not operating
- Smoke detection in the cargo compartments
- Left flow control and shutoff valve switch is closed
- Center tank refueling valve is open.
The NGS has 28v dc standby power available when all of these are true:
- Airplane on ground
- 28v dc bus 2 is not available.

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NGS -- CONTROL SYSTEM - NGS OPERATION

105
B737-800 Ramp & Transit