AS5440B
AS5440B
Superseding AS5440A
RATIONALE
c. Editorial changes have been made to improve the readability of the document.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. SCOPE .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Intended Use ................................................................................................................................................. 4
1.2 Classification ................................................................................................................................................. 4
1.2.1 Types............................................................................................................................................................. 4
1.2.2 Classes.......................................................................................................................................................... 4
2. REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................................. 4
2.1 Applicable Documents .................................................................................................................................. 4
2.1.1 SAE Publications........................................................................................................................................... 5
2.1.2 ISO Publications ............................................................................................................................................ 7
2.1.3 NAS Publications .......................................................................................................................................... 8
2.1.4 NAVAIR Publications .................................................................................................................................... 8
2.1.5 U.S. Government Publications ...................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 Related Publications ................................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.1 U.S. Government Publications .................................................................................................................... 10
2.3 Definitions ................................................................................................................................................... 10
3. REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................................................................... 11
3.1 Materials ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 Design ......................................................................................................................................................... 11
3.3 Hydraulic Fluid ............................................................................................................................................ 11
3.4 Hydraulic Seals ........................................................................................................................................... 12
3.4.1 Gland Design .............................................................................................................................................. 12
3.4.2 O-Ring and Seal Assemblies ...................................................................................................................... 12
3.4.3 Backup Rings .............................................................................................................................................. 12
3.4.4 Scrapers ...................................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5 General System Design .............................................................................................................................. 13
3.5.1 Fluid Temperature Limitations .................................................................................................................... 13
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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TO PLACE A DOCUMENT ORDER: Tel: 877-606-7323 (inside USA and Canada)
Tel: +1 724-776-4970 (outside USA) For more information on this standard, visit
Fax: 724-776-0790
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6. NOTES ........................................................................................................................................................ 40
6.1 Revision Indicator........................................................................................................................................ 40
6.2 Dimensions Wording ................................................................................................................................... 40
6.3 Useful Hydraulic Design Information ........................................................................................................... 40
6.4 Qualified Products Lists .............................................................................................................................. 40
1. SCOPE
This specification covers the design and installation requirements for Type I and II military aircraft hydraulic systems.
The design and installation requirements covered by this specification are intended for military aircraft hydraulic systems,
such as the utility system, the flight control system, and various subsystems, and with component installation procedures
for temperatures from -65 to 275 °F (-54 to +135 °C).
NOTE: Type III systems with a temperature range of -65 to 450° F (-54 to +232 °C) are covered by MIL-H-8891.
1.2 Classification
Military aircraft hydraulic systems shall be of the following types and classes, as specified below.
1.2.1 Types
1.2.2 Classes
NOTE: For variable pressure level systems, such as 5000 psi (34500 kPa) and 3000 psi (20690 kPa), the highest pressure
shall determine the pressure class. The pressure class shall be annotated with a “V” to indicate variable pressures
(for example, class 5000V).
2. REFERENCES
The following publications form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. The latest issue of SAE publications
shall apply. The applicable issue of the other publications shall be the issue in effect on the date of the purchase order. In
the event of conflict between the text of this document and references cited herein, the text of this document takes
precedence. Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and regulations unless a specific exemption
has been obtained.
NOTE: Documents listed as “Inactive” or “Cancelled” are provided for information purposes only. The procuring agency
may use these documents as guidance or invoke them as necessary.
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Available from SAE International, 400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096-0001, Tel: 877-606-7323 (inside USA
and Canada) or +1 724-776-4970 (outside USA), [Link].
AMS4081 Aluminum Alloy Tubing, Hydraulic, Seamless, Drawn, Round, 1.0Mg - 0.60Si - 0.28Cu - 0.20Cr (6061-T4),
Solution Heat Treated and Naturally Aged
AMS4083 Aluminum Alloy Tubing, Hydraulic, Seamless, Drawn, Round, 1.0Mg - 0.60Si - 0.28Cu - 0.20Cr (6061-T6),
Solution and Precipitation Heat Treated
AMS4944 Titanium Alloy Tubing, Seamless, Hydraulic, 3.0Al - 2.5V, Cold Worked, Stress Relieved
AMS4945 Titanium Alloy Tubing, Seamless, Hydraulic, 3Al - 2.5V, Controlled Contractile Strain Ratio Cold Worked,
Stress Relieved
AMS4946 Titanium Alloy Tubing, Seamless, Hydraulic, 3Al - 2.5V, Texture Controlled Cold Worked, Stress Relieved
AMS5561 Steel, Corrosion and Heat-Resistant, Welded and Drawn or Seamless and Drawn Tubing,
9.0Mn - 20Cr - 6.5Ni - .028N High-Pressure Hydraulic
AMS7287 Fluorocarbon Elastomer (FKM), High Temperature/HTS Oil Resistant/Fuel Resistant, Low Compression
Set/70 to 80 Hardness, Low Temperature Tg -22 °F (-30 °C), for Seals in Oil/Fuel/Specific Hydraulic
Systems
AMS7379 Rubber: Fluorocarbon Elastomer (FKM), Low Temperature Sealing Tg -40 °F (-40 °C) 70 to 80 Type ‘A’
Hardness For Elastomeric Seals in Aircraft Engine Oil, Fuel and Hydraulics Systems
AMS7410 Rubber: Fluorocarbon Elastomer (FKM), Aircraft Engine Oil, Fuel and Hydraulic Fluid Resistant 70 to 80
Shore Type A Hardness, Low Temperature Sealing Tg -47 °F (-43.9 °C) for Elastomeric Seals in Aircraft
Engine, Fuel and Hydraulic Systems
AMS-P-83461 Packing, Preformed, Petroleum Hydraulic Fluid Resistant, Improved Performance at 275 °F (135 °C)
AMS-T-6845 Tubing, Steel, Corrosion-Resistant (S30400), Aerospace Vehicle Hydraulic System, 1/8 Hard Condition
ARP4386 Terminology and Definitions for Aerospace Fluid Power, Actuation and Control Technologies
ARP4835 Recommended Design and Test Requirements for Hydraulic Thermal Expansion Relief Valves
ARP4946 Recommended Design and Test Requirements for Hydraulic Check Valves
ARP5891 Achieving Cleanliness Standards for Aircraft Hydraulic Systems During Manufacture
ARP7212 Recommended Design and Test Requirements for Hydraulic Flow Regulators
AS604 Hose Assembly, Polytetrafluoroethylene, Metallic Reinforced, 3000 psi, 400 °F, Heavyweight, Hydraulic
AS614 Hose Assembly, Polytetrafluoroethylene, Metallic Reinforced, 4000 psi, 400 °F, Heavy Duty, Hydraulic and
Pneumatic
AS1300 Port - Ring Locked Fluid Connection Type, Standard Dimensions For
AS1339 Hose Assembly, Polytetrafluoroethylene, Metallic Reinforced, 3000 psi, 400 °F, Lightweight, Hydraulic and
Pneumatic
AS1975 Hose Assembly, Polytetrafluoroethylene, Para-Aramid Reinforced, 3000/4000 psi, 275 °F, Standard Duty,
Hydraulic, Aircraft Systems
AS4201 Port - Ring Locked Fluid Connection Type, 8000 psi, Design Standard
AS5781 Retainers (Backup Rings), Hydraulic and Pneumatic, Polytetrafluoroethylene Resin, Single Turn, Scarf-Cut,
For Use in AS4716 Glands
AS5782 Retainers (Backup Rings), Hydraulic and Pneumatic, Polytetrafluoroethylene Resin, Solid, Un-Cut, for Use
in AS4716 Glands
AS6235 Face Seal Gland Design, Static, O-Ring and Other Seals for Aerospace Hydraulic and Pneumatic
Applications
AS8775 Hydraulic System Components, Aircraft and Missiles, General Specification for
AS19692 Aerospace – Military Type Variable Delivery, Pressure Compensated Hydraulic Pump
AS85421 Fittings, Tube, Fluid Systems, Separable, Beam Seal, 3000/4000 psi, General Specification for
AS85720 Fittings, Tube, Fluid Systems, Separable, High Pressure Dynamic Beam Seal, 5000/8000 psi, General
Specification for
AS94900 Vehicle Management Systems - Flight Control Function, Design, Installation and Test of Piloted Military
Aircraft, General Specification For
MA2010 Packing, Preformed - O-Ring Seal Standard Sizes and Size Codes, Metric
Available from International Organization for Standardization, ISO Central Secretariat, 1, ch. de la Voie-Creuse, CP 56,
CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland, Tel: +41 22 749 01 11, [Link].
ISO 22089 Aerospace - Hydraulic power transfer units - General specifications for
ISO 22181 Aerospace fluid systems and components - Variable displacement hydraulic motors - General specifications
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Available from Aerospace Industries Association, 1000 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928,
Tel: 703-358-1000, [Link].
NASM85449/1 Clamp Assembly, Saddle-Type, Cushioned, NBR Rubber, 321 CRES, 275 °F, Fuel Resistant, General
Purpose
NASM85449/3 Clamp Assembly, Saddle-Type, Cushioned, Silicone Fabric, Reinforced, 321 CRES, 500 °F, General
Purpose
Available from Naval Air Warfare Center - Aircraft Division (Code AB43300), 48298 Shaw Rd., Building 1461, Patuxent
River, MD 20760-1900.
MIL-DTL-8348 Gage Assemblies, Air Pressure, Dial Indicating Chuck Type, Self-Contained (Inactive)
MIL-DTL-9395 Switches Pressure (Absolute, Gage and Differential), General Specification For
MIL-DTL-25579 Hose Assembly, Tetrafluoroethylene, High Temperature, Medium Pressure, General Specification For
MIL-DTL-27267 Hose, CRES Wire Reinforced, Polytetrafluoroethylene, 450 Degrees F, Medium Pressure
MIL-DTL-27272 Fittings, Polytetrafluoroethylene Hose, High Temperature, Medium Pressure, General Requirements For
MIL-DTL-83296 Fittings, Corrosion Resistant Steel, High Temperature, High Pressure (3000 PSI), Hydraulic and
Pneumatic, General Specification for
MIL-DTL-83298 Hose, Conductive, Polytetrafluoroethylene Tube, High Temperature, High Pressure (3000 PSI),
Hydraulic and Pneumatic
MIL-DTL-85052/1 Clamp, Loop, Tube, 17-7 PH CRES, 275 °F, Fuel and Petroleum Based Hydraulic Fluid Resistant
MIL-F-8815 Filter and Filter Elements, Fluid Pressure, Hydraulic Line, 15 Micron Absolute and 5 Micron Absolute,
Type II Systems, General Specification For
MIL-F-8815/4 Filter, Fluid, Pressure, Hydraulic Line, 3000 PSI, Absolute 5 Micron, Style A, Bypass, -65 Degrees F to
+275 Degrees Fahrenheit
MIL-F-8815/5 Filter, Fluid, Pressure, Hydraulic Line 3000 PSI, Absolute 5 Micron, Style B, Non Bypass, -65 Degrees
F to +275 Degrees Fahrenheit
MIL-F-8815/6 Filter Elements, Noncleanable, Fluid Pressure, Hydraulic Line, 3000 PSI, 5 Micron Absolute -65
Degrees F to +275 Degrees Fahrenheit
MIL-H-8891 Hydraulic Systems, Manned Flight Vehicles, Type III Design, Installation and Data Requirements For,
General Specification For (Inactive)
MIL-H-85800 Hose Assemblies, Polytetrafluoroethylene Aramid Fiber Reinforced, 5000 and 8000 psi, General
Specification For
MIL-P-5954 Pump Unit, Hydraulic, Electric Motor Driven Fixed Displacement (Not for New Design)
MIL-PRF-5606 Hydraulic Fluid, Petroleum Base; Aircraft, Missile, and Ordnance (Inactive)
MIL-PRF-46170 Hydraulic Fluid, Rust Inhibited, Fire Resistant, Synthetic Hydrocarbon Base, NATO Code No. H-544
MIL-PRF-81836 Filter and Disposable Element, Fluid Pressure, Hydraulic, 3 Micron Absolute, General Specification For
MIL-PRF-83282 Hydraulic Fluid, Fire Resistant, Synthetic Hydrocarbon Base, Aircraft, Metric, NATO Code Number
H-537
MIL-PRF-87257 Hydraulic Fluid, Fire Resistant; Low Temperature, Synthetic Hydrocarbon Base, Aircraft and Missile
MIL-STD-1247 Markings, Functions and Hazard Designations of Hose, Pipe, and Tube Lines for Aircraft, Missile, and
Space Systems (Inactive)
MIL-STD-5522 Test Requirements and Methods for Aircraft Hydraulic and Emergency Pneumatic Systems
MIL-STD-7179 Finishes, Coatings, and Sealants for the Protection of Aerospace Weapons Systems
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MIL-T-8504 Tubing, Steel, Corrosion-Resistant (304), Aerospace Vehicle Hydraulic Systems, Annealed, Seamless
and Welded (Inactive)
MIL-V-29592 Valve, Air Vent, Automatic, Hydraulic, Low Pressure Type II Systems, General Specification For
MIL-V-85245 Valve, Relief, Hydraulic, High Response, Type II Systems, General Specification For
MS21344 Fitting, Installation of Flared Tube, Straight Threaded Connectors, Design Standard For
The following publications are provided for information purposes only and are not a required part of this SAE Technical
Report.
2.3 Definitions
General definitions for terminology used within this document may be found in ARP4386. The following definitions are
unique to this document.
UTILITY SYSTEM: This is the hydraulic system that supplies power for the normal operation of any services on the aircraft,
excluding the operation of the aircraft’s primary flight control system surfaces.
FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM: This is the hydraulic system that supplies power for primary flight control systems used to
actuate such surfaces as ailerons, rudders, elevators, stabilizers, spoilers, rotor blades, vectoring, or combined function
surfaces.
COMBINED FLIGHT CONTROL UTILITY SYSTEM: This is the hydraulic system that supplies a portion of the power
required for primary flight control and also supplies power to the utility services.
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3. REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Materials
Materials used in the manufacture of hydraulic systems in military aircraft shall conform to applicable government and
industry specifications. The use of contractor specifications instead of the applicable government and industry specifications
requires the approval of the procuring agency.
The use of aluminum materials in flight control components in 5000 psi (34500 kPa) systems and above requires special
precautions to ensure conformance to the fatigue requirements for production configuration parts. The use of aluminum
alloy parts for 5000 psi (34500 kPa) and greater is not encouraged and shall not be used unless approved by the contracting
activity.
3.2 Design
The hydraulic systems and components shall be designed to operate under all conditions that the aircraft may encounter
within the structural limitations of the aircraft, including forces or conditions caused by:
a. Acceleration or deceleration
b. Zero gravity (g), negative g, or any flight attitudes obtainable with the aircraft
c. Structural deflection
d. Vibration
The hydraulic systems shall be configured such that failure of any two fluid systems resulting from combat or other damage
which causes the loss of fluid or pressure will not result in a complete loss of flight control.
Fixed-wing aircraft shall maintain level one flying qualities of MIL-STD-1797 with one fluid system failure (including the
power source) and level three flying qualities including carrier landing, with two fluid system failures.
Rotary wing aircraft and piloted V/STOL aircraft shall meet MIL-F-83300 flying qualities with two fluid system failures for
return to the intended landing area (including shipboard areas and land).
General aircraft combat survivability guidelines are provided in MIL-HDBK-2069 and MIL-HDBK-2089.
Fluid conforming to MIL-PRF-83282 and/or MIL-PRF-87257 shall be used for hydraulic systems and associated ground
equipment.
NOTES:
1. The use of MIL-PRF-5606 is discouraged; however, it is considered an acceptable substitute for MIL-PRF-87257 if
required by the contracting activity.
2. MIL-PRF-83282 has the best flammability resistance followed by MIL-PRF-87257 and then MIL-PRF-5606.
The operational fluid shall be used as the preservative fluid when storing components. Hydraulic fluids containing barium
(i.e., MIL-PRF-46170 or MIL-PRF-6083) shall not be used as a test or preservative fluid.
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O-rings with cross-sectional diameters of 0.070 inch (1.78 mm) or less, or their equivalent proprietary seals, shall not be
used as external seals. The best practice is to avoid the usage of 0.070 inch (1.78 mm) or less in internal sealing
applications.
The configuration and dimensions of seal glands for radial sealing shall conform to the requirements of AS4716 for dynamic
and static applications.
Non-standard glands for specialized seal assemblies shall only be used with the approval of the contracting activity.
For static face sealing (internal and external pressure applications), seal glands shall conform to the requirements of
AS6235.
For system pressure levels above class 3000, the diametral clearance gaps of AS4716 may be reduced from the minimum
of 0.003 inch (0.08 mm) to improve seal life and aid in preventing seal assembly extrusion. Care shall also be taken to
prevent binding and interference at the most adverse temperature extremes. AS4716 provides a minimum of 0.005 inch
(0.13 mm) or 5%, whichever is larger, at ambient temperature and extremes of tolerance and eccentricity. Standard
clearance may be used for system pressure levels greater than 3000 psi (20690 kPa) if proprietary-type seal assemblies
and high-modulus backup ring materials are used.
The use of the procedures detailed in ARP4727 is recommended for the calculation of seal squeeze and gland occupancy
volume for radial seals when reviewing seal and gland design details.
O-ring elastomer materials shall conform to AMS-P-83461, AMS7287, AMS7379, or AMS7410. Seal assembly
configurations other than O-rings may be used in standard glands if the design permits. Any elastomer components within
those assemblies shall use materials per AMS-P-83461, AMS7287, AMS7379, or AMS7410.
Other elastomer materials and designs can be qualified for specialty applications based on system requirements. The use
of these materials is subject to the approval of the Purchaser.
O-rings not covered by a specification should conform to AS568 or MA2010 for dimensions and tolerances. When
nonstandard seals are necessary to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the Procurement Specification, they
may be used subject to the approval of the Purchaser and indicated on the component’s assembly drawing.
AS5781 and AS5782 backup rings shall be used in AS4716 seal glands. Solid backup rings shall conform to AS5782.
Scarf-cut backup rings conforming to AS5781 may be used on dynamic applications where minimum seal friction is required
for satisfactory operation or where access to the gland prevents installation of AS5782. If AS5782 solid backup rings are
used on dynamic piston applications, friction due to pressure entrapment between the backup rings shall be considered in
the design of the device.
Extra care, training, and drawing notes should be implemented to prevent backup rings designed for AS4716 grooves from
being inadvertently used in MIL-G-5514 grooves and vice versa. Note that backup rings per AS5781 and AS5782 are
color-coded to help prevent incorrect installation into MIL-G-5514 glands.
Nonstandard backup rings may be used for system pressure levels greater than class 3000, subject to the approval of the
contracting activity. AS5781 and AS5782 provide alternate backup ring material recommendations for pressure applications
higher than 3000 psi (20690 kPa).
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3.4.4 Scrapers
Components with rod seals that may be exposed to water, dirt, or ice shall have a scraper using a gland per AS4088 or
AS4052, as applicable. The scraper lip shall maintain contact with the rod throughout the expected temperature range. The
outer diameter of the scraper shall also maintain contact with its gland throughout the expected temperature range and
under all expected rod eccentricity within the rod gland.
Hydraulic systems shall be as simple and foolproof as possible and per design, operation, inspection, and maintenance
objectives specified in the aircraft design requirements. For Navy aircraft, the hydraulic system shall be designed to
accommodate the maintenance procedures described in NAVAIR 01-1A-17 and NAVAIR 01-1A-20 manuals.
Each hydraulic system shall be separated from all other systems, and fluid shall not be transferred between systems such
that one reservoir level would increase and another reservoir level would decrease.
The MIL-PRF-83232 fluid hydraulic system shall be capable of starting and operating at fluid temperatures between -40 °F
(-40 °C) and the upper limit of the operating envelope.
The MIL-PRF-87257 fluid hydraulic system shall be capable of starting and operating at fluid temperatures between -65 °F
(-54 °C) and the upper limit of the operating envelope.
Fluid temperatures shall not exceed +160 °F (+71 °C) for Type I systems and +275 °F (+135 °C) for Type II systems at any
point in the system. Operation at these temperatures shall not result in any degradation of the system.
With contracting agency approval, any reduced actuator rates at low temperatures may be acceptable.
Ground operation, flight operation, and storage climatic extremes shall be per the weapon system procurement specification.
The hydraulic system shall be so designed and installed with other systems that it will eliminate or isolate the system(s)
from fire hazards caused by the proximity of combustible gases, heat sources, bleed-air ducts, or electrical ignition sources.
Hydraulic lines and equipment located in the vicinity of heat and ignition sources that may cause spontaneous ignition or
sustained fire of hydraulic leakage from these lines or equipment shall be protected by devices such as fire walls, shrouds,
or equivalent means that will prevent fluid ignition.
Rotating components that fail and continue to rotate shall be disconnected from their driving source, incorporate a shear
shaft to allow disconnect in the event of seizure, or be stopped to prevent heat generation and the possibility of fire.
Peak pressure resulting from any phase of the system operation shall not exceed the percent value shown in Table 1 for
the main system, subsystem, or return system pressures when measured with electronic or other test equipment. Any failure
(such as a blown line) which causes a pressure surge in excess of acceptable peak pressure limits shall be substantiated
with the fatigue life of the system and approved by the contracting activity. This resulting surge pressure shall not exceed
the proof pressure. The use of a relief valve to limit peak pressure is discouraged and is only acceptable if approved by the
contracting agency. The relief valve response time and wide-open failure modes shall be assessed.
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• Pump pressure: Pump output pressures shall be in accordance with Table 2A and the fluid temperature, speed, and
flow conditions defined in AS19692, 3.2.2 and 3.2.3.
The system and components shall be designed to function properly and prevent a change of state under the influence of
maximum back pressure. The effect of back pressure shall be considered for brakes, clutches, solenoids, internal actuator
mechanical locks, and internal hydraulic lock valves included in the hydraulic system. The system or systems shall also be
so designed that malfunctioning of any unit in the system will not render any other subsystem, emergency system, or
alternate system inoperative because of back pressure.
Return back pressure and associated component pressure drop effects including dirty filter bypass valve full flow setting
and reservoir low-pressure relief valve setting should be considered as back pressure. Specific attention shall be applied to
brake systems, pressure-operated locks, and pressure-operated valve elements.
[Link] Brakes
Back pressure resulting from the operation of any other subsystem on the aircraft shall create no greater back pressure at
the brake valve return port than 90% of that pressure which will cause contact with braking surfaces. In addition, supply
pressure to the brake system shall not drop below the minimum full capability brake-operating pressure during the operation
of any other subsystem in the aircraft during taxiing, landing, or takeoff.
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System pumps shall use an internal pressure regulating device to limit excessive pressure and to maintain constant pressure
at varying flow demands. An independent safety relief valve shall be incorporated into each system. The safety relief valve
shall be designed to handle the maximum flow of the pump and have a response rate that limits surge pressure per 3.5.3.
The maximum pressure at rated flow and minimum pressure at reseat shall be per Table 2B.
Systems that vary the pump operating pressure as power demand varies shall provide hydraulic power with pump(s) failed
at the high or low pressure setting to maintain the flying qualities outlined in 3.2. All design factors and pressure ratings
cited in this document shall be applied at the maximum pump discharge pressure.
As a minimum, lines, fittings, and equipment in return circuits shall be designed for 0.5X system pressure, except for some
components as noted in Table 2C.
Components shall meet the required performance at the minimum differential pressure.
The design should consider supply pressure effects due to pressure drop, pressure droop, system shutdown, or operating
pressures lower than the main pump along with the back-pressure effects.
Return pressure and associated pressure drop effects should be considered as back pressure.
3.5.4 Strength
All hydraulic systems and components which are subjected, during the operation of the aircraft, to structural or other loads
which are not of hydraulic origin shall withstand such loads when applied simultaneously with appropriate proof pressure
as specified in Table 2C without exceeding the material yield point at the maximum operating temperature.
All components and their attached lines and fittings, subjected to loads resulting from airframe accelerations, shall be
designed and tested based on a pressure equal to the maximum pressure that will be developed, at the maximum operating
temperature. This operation shall not exceed the material yield point.
The reservoir shall be designed so that the hydraulic fluid is completely separated from the atmosphere during the normal
functioning of the system.
Tubing size and maximum fluid velocity for each system shall be determined considering, but not limited to, the following:
b. Any pressure surges caused by high fluid velocity, rapid closure of valves, and rapid actuator piston deceleration.
c. The back pressure in return lines, as it may affect brakes and pump-case drain lines.
d. The pump inlet pressure, as affected by long suction lines, and a high response rate variable-delivery pump.
Consideration should be given to both pressure surges and cavitation.
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The systems shall be so designed that malfunctioning of any unit or subsystem will not occur because of reduced flow, such
as created by single-pump operation of a multiple-pump system, or reduced engine speed. The systems shall also be
designed such that increased flow will not adversely affect the proper functioning of any unit or subsystems; examples
include increased flow rate caused by accumulator operation or units affected by the operation with aiding loads.
Two or more subsystems pressurized by a common pressure source, one of which is essential to flight operation and the
other not essential, shall be so isolated that the system essential to flight operation will not be affected by any damage to
the nonessential system.
Each hydraulic system shall include a set of self-sealing couplings for attachment of ground power sources. System ground
service provisions shall be so designed that pressurization of any hydraulic system in the aircraft is not necessary to test
another hydraulic system. An accessible location or locations shall be provided for each system that includes connections
for attachment of ground service equipment for system checkout and flushing, reservoir bleeding, reservoir fill, and
accumulator nitrogen charging.
A set of self-sealing couplings consisting of bulkhead halves and protective caps shall be provided at a convenient location
in the aircraft, easily accessible from the ground, for attachment of ground service equipment. The aircraft bulkhead halves
shall mate with the ground cart hose halves without the use of adapters. The self-sealing couplings shall be per 3.10.25.
Electric motor-driven pumps used in emergency or auxiliary systems shall not be used for ground test purposes unless the
motor is designed for continuous operation.
When reservoirs are normally pressurized by either compressed air or nitrogen, a ground supercharging connection shall
be provided and shall consist of a fitting end per AS4395-04 or AS4396 for attachment to a ground supercharging unit. A
protective cap per AN929 with a safety chain shall be provided to protect the end connection when not in use.
Reservoirs shall be filled by low-pressure replenishment methods. The reservoir filling connection shall be a check valve
and a self-sealing coupling for attachment to ground-filling equipment. A filter shall be provided between the filling
connection and the reservoir. Direct pouring of fluid into the reservoir (including in-flight fluid replenishment provisions)
shall not be provided. When the reservoir level is not readily visible from the fill connection, a remote indicator shall be
provided at that point.
The following information shall be attached permanently on the aircraft near the ground service connections:
NOTE: Any other precautions or information considered necessary shall also be added.
Each hydraulic system shall be equipped with an air removal device to vent undissolved air from the system.
Each system shall be equipped with a manual bleed valve. Bleed valves shall be accessible without exposing personnel to
undue hazards.
Refer to AIR5829 for a discussion of sources of air and design for air reduction and elimination in hydraulic systems.
When the need is recognized, consideration shall be given to the use of onboard deaeration equipment that will remove
both dissolved and undissolved air from the hydraulic oil and systems.
The hydraulic pump(s) shall be compatible with the installed aircraft system and shall not cause abnormal or undesirable
effects on the installed aircraft system. All pumps qualified for a given application shall be physically and functionally
interchangeable and shall be compatible with the system and each other to allow mixed-use in multiple pump systems.
The pump drive couplings shall be designed to include nonmetallic spline bushings to minimize wear. The spline bushings
shall be designed per MS14169 or MS14184 and shall be supplied with the gearbox.
Hydraulic power pumps designed to provide emergency power to flight critical systems or brakes shall not be used for any
other functions.
Multiple-engine aircraft shall have pumps directly driven by at least two engines. The hydraulic systems shall have a
sufficient number of engine pumps, augmented, if necessary, by pumps powered by other separate sources, to provide
power to all systems critical for the safe operation of the air vehicle. This requirement shall be met with any combination of
engines operating to maintain flight or to be used while taxiing.
For all power-generating components (engine pumps, power packages, transfer units, etc.), pump pulsations shall be
controlled to a level that does not adversely affect the aircraft system tubing and components, and supports the installation.
The contractor shall determine by testing the effect of pump pulsations (pump ripple) on the hydraulic system.
The initial tests shall be conducted on the functional simulator (see Section 4), with recording equipment, and shall cover
the complete speed range from zero revolutions per minute (rpm) to the maximum speed, pressures, and flows that the
pump will be subjected to when installed in the aircraft.
The results of the functional simulator tests for pump ripple effects shall be documented, forwarded to the contracting activity,
and verified on the first aircraft, and any additional corrections required shall be made before the first flight.
For pumps that are not designed to withstand reverse rotation, the system and the associated components shall be designed
so that no single failure will permit reverse rotation.
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[Link] Attenuators
The harmful effects of pump cavitation resulting from system failure or air ingestion from improper maintenance shall be
considered in the design of each hydraulic system. Where appropriate, as determined upon review by the contracting
activity, attenuators shall be installed to minimize these harmful effects.
Pump supply (suction) shutoff valves shall be provided if the fire protection requirements of the particular model aircraft
specify the need for such equipment in other systems, such as fuel or lubricating oil systems, or both. These valves, when
required, shall not be located on the engine side of firewalls or flame-tight diaphragms but shall be located as close as the
design permits to these members. However, the valves shall be so removed from the engine that the loss of the engine
from the attaching structure will not impair the operation of the valve.
The pump supply shutoff valves shall be operable from the cockpit to both the closed and open positions.
Means to relieve excessive pressure accumulation shall be provided if no other pressure relief features in the isolated
volume are provided.
Hydraulic systems shall be so designed that special tools will not be required for the installation or removal of components.
Where special tools are necessary, they shall require approval by the contracting activity.
Pressure-indicating equipment shall be provided to indicate the system pressure in hydraulic systems or subsystems. This
pressure indication may be displayed to the flight crew in conjunction with other information on a multifunction, multiplexed
display. For emergency conditions of decreasing or fluctuating pressure, the pressure indication shall be displayed
immediately to the flight crew.
On engine-driven multiple-pump systems, pressure-indicating equipment shall be provided for each pump to enable the
flight crew to check for proper operation of each pump without the shutdown of any engine.
In addition, but not as a substitute for the requirement of 3.5.13, a warning light shall be installed in the cockpit in a
conspicuous location to warn the pilot of low hydraulic system pressure. The light shall be actuated by a pressure switch or
other sensors in the system. There shall be a separate warning light for each hydraulic system.
The warning light, or lights, shall not be actuated by any combination of normal flight-control operations.
A momentary flicker of the warning light during ground checkout only is permissible, provided such condition is described
in the appropriate aircraft operation and maintenance manuals and provided such condition does not occur during flight
unless a system malfunction exists.
Any pressure gages and indicators that require a preflight, postflight, or daily check shall not require work stands or platforms
to read them.
A fluid sampling valve, conforming to MIL-V-81940, shall be provided in the system return line that is common to all actuating
circuits and shall be located upstream of the main return line filter. The sampling valve(s) shall be located in a readily
accessible area and shall allow convenient use of sampling containers. Fluid sampling valves shall also be provided in other
portions of the system if considered necessary by the procuring activity.
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The sampling valve shall allow representative fluid samples to be taken while the system is fully pressurized. Contamination
generated by the operation of the valve shall not adversely affect the fluid sample. The valve nozzle shall include a protective
cap, and the cap shall also prevent external leakage in the event of valve malfunction. The cap shall be provided with a
security chain, or equivalent, to prevent loss of the cap.
Integral with each hydraulic system, a diagnostic system shall be provided to continuously monitor the system and
components and detect out-of-tolerance conditions. These out-of-tolerance conditions shall be detected during flight
operations and give an indication of a failed or failing component and indicate maintenance actions needed such as filter
replacement, accumulator recharging, and over-temperature indication.
The information shall be stored during the flight. After the flight, the information shall be displayed upon demand at a central
location on the aircraft readily accessible to ground maintenance personnel without the use of work stands, platforms, or
any other ground support equipment.
The sensors installed in the hydraulic system to accomplish this monitoring shall not degrade the safety of the hydraulic
system. The design of the system shall enable the integrity of the sensors and sensor circuits to be checked.
The system should monitor the following components and conditions and record the conditions indicating maintenance
required and conditions indicating component deterioration leading to failure:
• Accumulators
• Filters
All hydraulically operated services (excluding flight controls covered by 3.2) that are essential to the accomplishment of the
basic aircraft mission (weapon-bay doors, in-flight refueling, etc.) or essential to land and stop the aircraft (landing gear,
brakes, excluding Types I and IV brakes of AS8584) shall have provisions for emergency actuation. No failure of the utility
system shall result in the loss of the aircraft or damage that would prevent safe flight and safe landing of the aircraft.
Flight control systems, as defined in 2.3, which require hydraulic power for operation shall conform to AS94900.
When multiple hydraulic systems are used for flight control, the hydraulic systems shall be so designed that ground service
equipment may be connected to either one of the flight control systems and that system may be operated without adverse
effects on the unpressurized system, such as overflow of the system or failure of any part thereof. To accomplish this
objective, automatic bypass of the fluid in the unpressurized system from one side of the actuator piston to the other side
may be provided.
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Whenever hydraulic power is required for primary flight controls, a completely separate, integral hydraulic system shall be
provided to supply only the primary flight controls. This hydraulic system shall not be used to supply any other system or
component in the aircraft unless approval is obtained from the contracting activity. This hydraulic system shall contain a
minimum number of components.
Dual hydraulic actuator systems may employ the combined flight control and utility system function for one-half of the power,
in which case the flight control function shall be given pressure priority.
All primary flight control hydromechanical components shall be monitored for failure conditions and fully integrated into the
BIT routines of the flight control system.
An emergency power source shall be designed to provide controllability for those aircraft where direct mechanical control
is unable to obtain aircraft controllability and the emergency requirements of MIL-STD-1797 cannot be accomplished
following hydraulic power failures.
The means of engaging the emergency power system shall be either manual or automatic; however, they shall be of the
simplest and most reliable nature possible, consistent with the requirements of the aircraft. Manual engagement of the
emergency power system shall not be used unless specifically approved by the contracting activity.
If the aircraft has a single engine, the emergency power source shall be independent of the operation of this engine. On
multiple-engine aircraft, the emergency source of power shall be on a different engine than the primary source of power.
In some cases, it is permissible to utilize the utility hydraulic system as the emergency source of power, if it is accomplished
in such a way that there is no interconnection with the flight control power system. No single failure can cause loss of both
flight control and utility systems.
Consideration shall be given to the possibility of landings wherein none of the engines are operating. Because some engines
will not windmill sufficiently to provide flight control power during landing, it may be necessary to provide emergency power
sources not dependent upon engine operation. In aircraft which are capable of landing without engine power, this condition
shall not be considered an emergency, and provisions shall be made for landings with one of the power systems failing
while out of fuel. When designing for this condition, extreme care shall be exercised not to reduce the reliability of the power
systems.
The flight control power system shall return to normal operation upon the correction of the emergency condition.
Where a ram air turbine is used as the source of emergency power, it shall be capable of extension and operation under
any flight conditions. The ram air turbine shall be capable of retraction if the flight control system returns to normal operation.
Where direct mechanical control is utilized following a primary hydraulic system failure, provisions shall be made for
automatic, direct bypass of the fluid from one side of the primary flight control actuator piston to the other side. Where the
actuator can be disengaged from the system, a bypass will not be required. For dual actuator systems, the failed system
shall provide an automatic bypass. Bypass damping may be required on stiffness-critical actuator designs.
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Hydraulic systems shall be separated as far as the design will allow them to be less vulnerable and more survivable to
gunfire or engine fires. Where design permits, multiple hydraulic systems should be on opposite sides of the fuselage, the
wing spar, or similarly separated. The systems necessary for a safe flight shall be separated by a minimum of 18.0 inches
(460 mm) unless survivability and vulnerability analyses show that less separation is satisfactory. Where it is deemed
necessary for these systems to come together, as in a dual tandem surface actuator, the actuator shall be protected from
the threat to a degree specified by the contracting activity.
Subsystems and branch circuits that use a pressure lower than the full system pressure shall be designed to withstand and
operate under full system pressure or shall have a relief valve installed downstream of the pressure-reducing valve. This
relief valve may be incorporated into the same housing as the pressure reducer, provided the relief valve mechanism is
independent of the pressure reducer mechanism. The relief valve shall be capable of handling the maximum flow of the
pressure reducer when failed full open. The bypass of the relief valve shall cause an external indicator to signal a failed
pressure reducer.
Aircraft primary flight control hydraulic systems shall have engine-driven pumps as their source of power. Helicopter primary
flight control systems shall have transmission-driven pumps as a source of power so that power will be available during
autorotation.
The hydraulic flight control actuators shall provide the required actuation rates under minimum and maximum in-flight fluid
and ambient temperatures. The flight critical components shall not bind or jam under any combination of in-flight fluid and
ambient temperature conditions including single undetected failures, such as relief valves, worn pumps, failed valves, and
other heat-generating failures. The effects of differential fluid temperature in tandem units shall also be demonstrated during
actuator qualification testing.
Where emergency devices are required in hydraulic systems, the emergency systems shall be completely independent of
the main system up to, but not necessarily including, the shuttle valve, the actuating cylinder, or the motor. The system shall
be so designed that failure of an actuator in one subsystem shall not prevent the operation of or cause the failure of both
normal and emergency actuation of another subsystem. These emergency systems shall utilize hydraulic fluid, compressed
gas, gas-generating devices, direct mechanical connection, or gravity. Mechanical connections may include
electromechanical units.
Where safe operational landings cannot be accomplished without the use of hydraulically operated high lift devices, they
shall be powered by dual actuator hydraulic systems or shall be provided with an emergency system.
The emergency line from the shuttle valves shall be vented to the reservoir or a low-pressure (15 psi [100 kPa]) gage
maximum, above reservoir pressurization) non-surging return line when the emergency system is not in use. When shuttle
valve leakage is not critical, the line may be vented to the atmosphere. Provisions shall be made to bleed the compressed
gas into the atmosphere rather than back to the reservoir after the actuation of the emergency system.
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3.9 Components
All components used in the system(s) shall conform to AS8775, and the appropriately detailed specifications, except the
requirements shall be upgraded to agree with Tables 2A through 2D for the operating and test pressures. All components
used shall meet the impulse testing requirements as specified in AS603 or recommended in ARP1383. All protective finishes
shall be per MIL-STD-7179.
Standard components shall be used in preference to nonstandard components. Where no applicable AN, MS, or industry
standard exists, a uniquely designed component compatible with the performance, installation, inspection, and maintenance
requirements shall be used.
Orifices larger than 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) in diameter but smaller than 0.070 inch (1.78 mm) in diameter shall be protected
by adjacent integral strainer elements (last chance screens) having screen openings one-third to two-thirds of the diameter
of the orifice being protected. Orifices smaller than 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) in diameter are prohibited. Multiple-orifice fixed
restrictors are recommended as a means of increasing the orifice diameter and allowing the use of coarser strainer
elements, minimizing the risk of clogging.
Orifice and strainer elements, in combination, shall be strong enough to absorb system design flow and pressure drop
without rupture or permanent deformation. The filter element should be strong enough to withstand a blocked flow condition
with a pressure differential specified in the detail specification without rupture. Sintered metal powder type elements shall
not be used.
Where two or more independent hydraulic systems are utilized to power services essential for safe flight (e.g., primary flight
controls), the actuation and control devices shall be designed and constructed (either parallel or series configuration) so
that no single structural or hydraulic failure may cause loss of more than one hydraulic system or allow transfer of fluid from
one system to another. Aluminum shall not be used as a barrel material for actuators essential to safe operation
(flight control and landing gear).
If a fluid which is different from the specified fluid is used for component testing and shipping, it shall be drained and flushed
with the specified fluid before the installation of the component in the aircraft.
The hydraulic system component installation requirements specified in the following subparagraphs are considered to be
good design practice; however, it is recognized that variations from these practices will, in many cases, be necessary due
to specific installation requirements. All installation of standard parts or components shall be designed to accommodate the
worst dimensional and operational conditions permitted in the applicable part or component specification of AN or MS
standards. All components shall be installed and mounted to withstand all expected acceleration loads, wrench loads, and
vibration effects.
All system components shall be designed so that reverse installation cannot occur. Nonstandard components shall be used,
if necessary, to conform to these requirements.
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3.10.2 Accumulators
Accumulators shall be installed with the utmost consideration given to the protection of crew members and flight essential
systems in case of rupture resulting from gunfire. Hydraulic accumulators shall be per ARP4553 (self-displacing hydraulic
accumulators), ARP4378 (factory pre-charged welded bellows hydraulic accumulators), or ARP4379 (piston-separated
accumulators).
When the accumulator gas charge is critical to the functioning of the hydraulic system or subsystem, a permanent
pressure-indicating device shall be attached to the gas side of the accumulator. The pressure-indicating device shall not be
used to indicate equivalent hydraulic pressure to the crew members. Factory pre-charged welded bellows hydraulic
accumulators per ARP4378 do not require a gas pressure indicating device.
In accumulator installations that require gas charging in the field, adequate access shall be provided around the gas
charging valve for the use of a MIL-DTL-8348 high-pressure, gas-testing gage assembly and for standard fitting connections
to charge accumulators.
If the accumulator is rechargeable in the field, instructions for servicing the accumulator with gas pressure with the
accumulator oil chamber discharged shall be provided adjacent to the accumulator. Information shall be included to indicate
the proper gas preload pressure throughout the temperature range for which the accumulator will be serviced.
Accumulators shall be charged with inert gas only, such as dry nitrogen or helium.
Hydraulic actuating cylinders shall be so installed that they shall not interfere with the adjacent structure and are readily
accessible for maintenance and inspection. If design permits, the cylinder shall be installed in a protected area, or if exposed,
it shall be protected from flying debris during landing and takeoff.
Actuating cylinders other than those used for primary flight control shall conform to MIL-PRF-5503. For higher pressure
systems, MIL-PRF-5503 shall be used except the performance pressures shall be per Tables 2C and 2D.
Manual bleed valves shall conform to MIL-V-81940 and shall be so located that they can be operated without the removal
of other aircraft components. Such installations shall permit the attachment of a flexible hose so that fluid bleed-off may be
directed into a container (see 3.5.9).
When used, automatic bleed valves shall be per MIL-V-29592 and be so designed that failure in the open position results
in minimal leakage of fluid. In the most adverse case of flight duration, pressure, and temperature, the automatic bleed valve
leakage shall not exceed the emergency reserve capacity of the reservoir.
Brake valves shall be installed per AS8584 and shall conform to MIL-V-5525.
The installation of directional control valves shall be compatible with the control valve performance such that the system
operation may not be affected by back pressure, internal flow, or pressure surges which might tend to cause the valves to
open or move from their setting or cause them to transfer fluid from one system to the other. Hydraulic control valves shall
not be installed in the pilot’s cockpit or compartment.
All installations of directional control valve handles shall conform to MIL-STD-1472. Valve installation shall incorporate
internal or external stops capable of withstanding limit loads generated by the application of 75 pounds (335 N) on the
handle grip without detrimental effects.
In systems that incorporate two or more directional control valves, a provision shall be made to prevent fluid from being
transferred inadvertently, at any possible valve setting, from the cylinder ports of one valve into the cylinder ports of another
valve.
Control valve operation may be direct, such as push-pull rods, cable control, or indirect, such as electrically operated
controls. Push-pull rods shall require a minimum or no adjustment. Sheathed flexible controls shall not be used. Cable
control shall be designed to provide minimum adjustment and positive control. All controls shall be designed to prevent
overtravel or undertravel of the valve control handle by use of external or internal stops. Electrically operated valves shall
be provided with mechanical override control mechanisms.
Valves that reduce pressure for utility circuits shall conform to MIL-V-5519.
3.10.9 Filters
Filters per MIL-F-8815 with an element collapse pressure of 150% of operating pressure shall be provided in all hydraulic
systems. These filters shall be used to filter all circulating fluid in the system. The pump pressure line filter shall be located
downstream from the ground servicing connection point; otherwise, an additional filter shall be required to filter fluid entering
the aircraft from the ground servicing unit.
All vent openings or fluid exposed to breathing action through vents shall be protected by filters.
Line filters installed in the aircraft system close to an accumulator shall be, if the design permits, installed upstream from
the accumulator.
When a secondary or last chance type filter screen is used internal to or close to a component, provisions shall be made
for the removal and replacement of the screen.
Sintered metal powder-type elements shall not be used in hydraulic systems. These types of filters may be used only as air
vent filters.
All filters installed in the hydraulic system(s) shall be per the requirements of MIL-F-8815/4, MIL-F-8815/5, or MIL-F-8815/6
as applicable. All filter elements shall be capable of maintaining the particulate contamination level equal to or better than
Class 8 per AS4059.
Fluid samples for contamination tests shall be obtained from sampling valves specified in 3.5.14.
A non-bypass-type filter shall be installed in the system pressure circuit and shall be so located that all fluid from the aircraft
pump will be filtered before entering any major equipment or components of the system. In multiple pump systems, each
pump shall have a separate filter installation.
A bypass-type filter shall be installed in the return circuit. All fluid entering the return circuit shall be circulated through the
filter before entering the return line to the pump(s) and reservoir.
A non-bypass-type filter shall be installed to filter all fluid entering the system through the reservoir fill connection. The main
system return filter or the pump case drain filter may also be used for this function provided check valves are installed in
the system to prevent backflow to components. Also, the fill fluid flow rate shall be limited to prevent the opening of the filter
housing bypass valve.
Each pump case-drain line shall have a filter installed. A bypass-type filter prevents blocking the case line in the event of a
clogged filter element with the resulting risk of contamination to the downstream components, such as heat exchangers and
reservoirs. A non-bypass filter prevents downstream contamination but may result in a blocked case line and resulting pump
overheat.
Filters shall not be installed between the system reservoir and the pump suction port.
Where hydraulic sequencing is critical, and where contamination can prevent proper sequencing, each sequence valve shall
be protected from contamination in each direction of flow by a screen-type filter element. This element may be included as
a part of the sequence valve assembly.
3.10.10 Fittings
As much as the design permits, tube fittings shall be of the permanent type employing no screw threads. Threaded,
reconnectable type fittings shall be used for component installation, production breakpoints, and at other points consistent
with the maintenance plan of the aircraft.
Repair and replacement methods involving failed tubing and fittings shall be established for each aircraft model and shall
be included in the applicable aircraft publications.
Fittings with threaded connections shall conform to AS85421 for Class 4000 pressure (27600 kPa) or less and AS85720 for
greater than Class 4000. For installation in the aircraft, no lubrication or bonding material shall be applied to the threads of
reconnectable fittings except for the fluid specified in 3.3. Any other lubricating material necessary for the correct installation
of the fitting is specified in the fitting specification and is permanently applied to the fittings.
Ring-locked type boss fittings shall be used in all components. Ports for these fittings shall conform to the requirement of
AS1300 for Class 5000 systems (34500 kPa) and below and AS4201 for Class 8000 systems (55000 kPa). These
ring-locked fittings shall mate to either AS85421 or AS85720 fittings. For Class 4000 systems (27600 kPa) and below, an
AS5202 port may be used if the design permits.
Flow dividers shall not be used if the effect of a malfunction of the flow divider would result in an unsafe flight condition.
Flow regulators may be installed in the hydraulic system to limit the rate of fluid flow. They shall conform to MIL-V-8566 for
Type I systems or ARP7212. The direction and rate of fluid flow shall be clearly indicated on the flow regulator and the
adjacent structure. Regulators used under continuous dynamic conditions shall not adversely affect the operation of the
hydraulic system.
Hydraulic fuses, circuit breakers, reservoir level sensors, or other similar devices may be used to meet survivability
requirements. Premature or inadvertent shutoff or any other malfunction of such devices shall not occur during any flow or
pressure variations or any conditions of system operation. The function and reliability of such devices shall be demonstrated
in the functional simulator (see Section 4).
Hydraulic fuses shall conform to MIL-DTL-5508 for Type I systems, or AS5466 or AS5467 (as applicable).
It is recommended that second-tier screens, as defined by AIR4057, should, when fully clogged, withstand a proof pressure
test without collapse, rupture, or permanent deformation.
3.10.14 Snubbers
Pressure snubbers shall be used with all hydraulic pressure transmitters, hydraulic pressure switches, and hydraulic
pressure gages unless the application calls for a fast response of the device. When snubbing is not used, the design shall
demonstrate the capability of surviving the environment. Snubbers may be an integral part of the pressure transmitter switch
or gauge. Pneumatic pressure gages are excluded from this requirement.
Where a manually operated pump is required, either a hand-actuated or foot-actuated pump shall be selected, based on
trade-off studies. In installations where a pump can be operated by personnel in a standing position, strong consideration
shall be given to a foot pump to minimize physical exertion.
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No screen or filter shall be used in the suction line of the pump. The suction line shall be of a diameter and length to ensure
priming a dry pump and obtaining full rated flow at -40 °F (-40 °C) temperature within 12 complete cycles at a rate of
20 cycles per minute. The pump circuit shall be capable of full priming and rated flow in flight at the highest altitude at which
pump operation is essential and intended.
The effective operating handle length of hand pumps shall be such that the handle load shall not exceed 67 pounds (300 N).
The length of this handle travel at the handgrip shall not exceed 18 inches (45.7 cm).
Whenever relative motion exists between two points, metal coiled tubing per ARP584 or ARP4146 shall be used unless
hoses, extension units, or swivels are demonstrated to be superior in the application and the environment. Hoses are
preferred over extension units and swivels and shall be selected according to the following paragraphs.
Hose assemblies shall not be subjected to torsional deflection (twisting) when installed, or during system actuation. No hose
clamp-type installation shall be used in hydraulic systems.
Class 1500 (10345 kPa) polytetrafluoroethylene hose assemblies shall conform to MIL-DTL-25579. These hose assemblies
shall have permanent-type end fittings, and their installation shall allow space to permit replacement with spares conforming
to MIL-DTL-27267 and MIL-DTL-27272.
Class 3000 (20690 kPa) polytetrafluoroethylene hose shall conform to AS604 and AS1339.
Class 4000 (27600 kPa) polytetrafluoroethylene hose shall conform to AS614 and AS1975. Installations shall permit
replacement with MIL-DTL-83298 hoses and MIL-DTL-83296 hose fittings.
Class 5000 (34500 kPa) and Class 8000 (55000 kPa) aramid fiber hoses shall conform to MIL-H-85800.
The support of a flexible line shall be such that it will not tend to cause deflection of the rigid lines under any possible relative
motion that may occur. A flexible hose between two rigid connections may have excessive motion restrained where
necessary but shall not be rigidly supported by a tight rigid clamp around the outside diameter of the flexible hose. Extreme
care should be used in the selection and placement of the supports to ensure that the flexible line is not restricted and does
not rub on the structure or adjacent members during any portion of its excursion. Clamping of aramid fiber hoses is not
permitted unless absolutely necessary to prevent chafing. Extreme caution shall be used in clamping these hoses to prevent
any damage to the chafe guard or underlying fibers.
The minimum radius of bend for hose assemblies shall be a function of hose size and flexing range to which the hose
installation will be subjected. The minimum bend radius as installed for hoses shall be per the applicable hose specification.
The hose shall be protected against chafing where necessary to preclude damage to the hose and the adjoining structure,
tubing, wiring, and other equipment.
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Hose assemblies shall be so selected and installed that elongation and contraction under pressure, within the hose
specification limits, shall not be detrimental to the installation either by causing strains on the end fittings or excessive
binding or chafing of the hose.
Where lock valves are used, provisions shall be made for fluid expansion and contraction throughout the temperature range.
Where several actuating cylinders are mechanically tied together, only one lock valve shall be used to hydraulically lock all
actuators so tied together.
3.10.18 Motors
All constant-displacement motors shall be per AS7997, and variable displacement motors should be per ISO 22181.
Case flow connections shall be provided using a check valve in the case drain line. All case drain lines should be connected
to the system return line upstream of the reservoir provided the return steady state pressure is lower than the motor case
pressure. The connection of case drain lines to actuator return lines is prohibited. The shaft seal drain shall be vented
overboard.
Variable delivery pumps shall be per AS19692. The pressure differential between the pump-case cooling port and the
reservoir shall be such as to permit the pump to maintain cooling flow in any pump flow condition including zero flow.
Electric motor-driven hydraulic pumps per AS5994 may be used, as necessary, for either normal, emergency, or auxiliary
operation of hydraulic systems.
Fixed displacement pumps shall be per the procuring agency specifications. MIL-P-5954 can be used as a reference for the
development of a fixed displacement pump specification. Fixed displacement power pumps shall not be used as the main
source of fluid power in any system.
Power transfer units per ISO 22089 should be used, as necessary, for either normal, emergency, or auxiliary operation of
hydraulic systems.
The system relief valves shall be designed per Table 2B as safety devices to prevent bursting or other damage to the system
if the normal pressure regulation device malfunctions, a blocked line condition occurs, or overload forces are generated on
actuating units.
Excessive system pressure caused by the thermal expansion of the fluid shall be relieved through the thermal expansion
relief valves.
Relief valves are to be used as safety devices and not as pressure-regulating devices.
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System pressure relief valves shall relieve excessive pressure by the bypass of fluid from the pressure to the return side
(see Table 2B). The valves shall have a capacity equal to or greater than the rated flow of the largest pump when two or
more pumps have a common pressure line. The systems shall be designed so that the fluid flowing through the system
relief valves does not exceed the temperature of 160 °F (+71 °C) for Type I systems or 275 °F (+135 °C) for Type II systems.
Thermal expansion relief valves shall conform to ARP4835. For subsystems isolated from the system relief valve, local relief
valves shall be installed to prevent excessive pressure rise and system damage resulting from the thermal expansion of the
hydraulic fluid. The valve shall relieve fluid to the return side of the system. Internal valve leakage shall not be considered
an acceptable method of providing thermal relief (see Table 2B for the relief valve setting).
3.10.23 Reservoirs
When a hydraulic emergency system is used in any military aircraft, except for trainer types, a separate emergency reservoir
shall be provided. The emergency reservoir shall be located as remote as design permits from the main reservoir to minimize
the effect of gunfire damage. Both the main and emergency reservoirs shall be serviceable through a common filler port
unless the system or the reservoir design does not permit it.
The fill and vent lines for all hydraulic reservoirs shall be designed so that rupture of any reservoir, fill, or vent lines will not
cause fluid exchange between reservoirs or loss of sufficient fluid from any other reservoir to impair system operation.
Reservoirs shall be protected from failure when a rapid discharge of the main or emergency system into the reservoirs is
encountered.
Protection from overpressurization resulting from overfilling shall be incorporated into the reservoir subsystem.
Pressurized reservoir installations shall include a depressurization valve for maintenance purposes.
It is desired that the reservoir be located such that the following conditions will be obtained:
a. At a maximum practical height such that a positive static head of fluid shall be supplied to all pumps in all normal flight
attitudes of the aircraft.
b. The length of the suction line to the pump shall be minimized to prevent cavitation.
c. The best available temperature and pressure is utilized; however, it shall not be installed in engine compartments.
d. Suction lines shall be so routed as to prevent breaking of the fluid column caused by gravity after engine shutdown and
during the parking period. Where such routing is not possible, provisions shall be installed to maintain the fluid column
to the pump after engine shutdown. A swing gate-type check valve in the suction port of the reservoir should normally
maintain the fluid column to the pump.
e. If routing of the pump bypass cannot be accomplished so that breaking of the fluid column by gravity after engine
shutdown is prevented, check valves shall be incorporated in the lines.
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NOTE: Reservoir pressurization via gas includes air or inert gas-type reservoirs.
The gas pressure shall be controlled by an externally nonadjustable pressure-regulating device to control the gas pressure
in the reservoir. A relief valve shall also be connected to the airspace to protect the reservoir and pump from excessive
pressure. If the gas pressure regulator and relief valve are combined into one housing, a single failure in that unit shall not
permit overpressurization of the reservoir.
When engine bleed air is used for reservoir pressurization, a moisture removal unit shall be installed at a location to protect
the pressure regulation lines and equipment. Bleed line components shall be installed to minimize the effects of trapped
moisture. A filter shall be provided.
Reservoir fluid level indication shall be provided both on the reservoir itself as required in AS5586 and also in the cockpit.
Both fluid level indications shall be temperature compensated for the correct volume for any temperature as specified in
[Link] of this document. Cockpit indicator fluid level markings shall correspond to the direct-reading fluid level indicator
markings provided on the reservoir and shall be lighted per the applicable cockpit lighting requirements. A warning light
shall also be provided to signal the pilot of a low fluid level condition. The cockpit fluid level indicator shall not eliminate the
requirement for the direct-reading fluid level indicator on the reservoir itself, as this is required for reservoir servicing with
power off. The reservoir level monitoring and branch circuit isolation shall be accomplished electronically.
If normal system pressure is lost for any reason, the hydraulic reservoir pressurization shall be maintained. Regulated
hydraulic pressure during an inactive pump state helps to prevent pump cavitation and maintain return circuit pressurization
to prevent air intrusion. This may be accomplished by placing an accumulator, check valve, and relief valve in the hydraulic
pressurization circuit, or a mechanical provision in the reservoir. The provision for depleting this trapped pressure and
depressurizing the reservoir for ground maintenance shall be incorporated into the circuit.
Adjustable orifice restrictor valves may be used in experimental aircraft, but only fixed orifice restrictor valves shall be used
in service test and production aircraft. One-way restrictors shall be designed with different port sizes on each end to prevent
installation in the wrong flow direction. The direction of restricted and unrestricted flow shall be indicated on the restrictor.
Hydraulic systems should be provided with self-sealing couplings for each engine-driven pump and be located so that the
pump can be readily removed for servicing. A coupling should be used in each line going to each pump.
Self-sealing couplings may also be provided on all hydraulically operated brake installations where it is necessary to
disconnect the brake line to remove the wheel. The self-sealing coupling shall be attached to the brake, and it shall be
possible to remove the wheel without damaging the coupling.
Self-sealing couplings shall also be provided at all other points in the hydraulic system which require frequent disassembly
or, where convenient, to isolate parts of the system as in jacking and servicing one landing gear only. If required, provisions
for connecting couplings with trapped pressure in the hydraulic system shall be incorporated into the coupling design.
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The coupling design shall prevent inadvertent disconnection and provide an indication when a coupling connection is
incomplete. If the means of preventing inadvertent disconnection are not absolutely positive, the system shall be so
designed that a hydraulic lock resulting from an inadvertent coupling disconnection will not be the cause of an aircraft
accident.
Clearance shall be provided around the coupling to permit connection and disconnection. Self-sealing couplings installed
adjacent to each other shall be of different sizes or be otherwise so designed that inadvertent cross-connection of the lines
cannot occur.
When self-sealing couplings are provided at airframe breakpoints, especially in flight control systems, and where
disconnection of such a coupling or couplings will adversely affect the operation of any of these systems, the coupling
design shall prevent inadvertent disconnection. The design shall also provide an indication when a coupling connection is
incomplete. If the means of preventing inadvertent disconnection are not absolutely positive, the system shall be so
designed that a hydraulic lock resulting from an inadvertent coupling disconnection will not be the cause of an aircraft
accident.
When self-sealing couplings are used to mount components, they shall conform to AS4251 except at specified pressure.
The design shall provide for deflection and separation forces. Locating pins may be used to aid installation as specified in
the procurement document.
Shuttle valves shall conform to MIL-V-5530 for Type I systems and MIL-DTL-19068 for Type II systems. Shuttle valves shall
not be used in installations in which a force balance can be obtained on both inlet ports simultaneously which may cause
the shuttle valve to restrict flow from the outlet port.
Where shuttle valves are necessary to connect an actuating cylinder with the normal and emergency systems, the shuttle
valve unit shall be built into the appropriate cylinder head, using parts of the applicable shuttle valve specification above.
Where the above installation cannot be made, a standard shuttle valve may be located at the actuator port and shall be
tested to the same requirements as the actuator. In the event neither of the above installations is possible, a length of a
rigid line is permissible between the cylinder port and the shuttle valve, provided the rigid line and shuttle valve are firmly
attached to the actuating cylinder.
Hoses shall not be used between the actuating cylinder port and the shuttle valve.
Pressure switches shall conform to the requirements of MIL-DTL-9395. Pressure switches may be installed in hydraulic
systems where the regulation of hydraulic pressure is required by controlling an electric motor-driven pump. Precautions
shall be taken to prevent chatter or cutoff.
Swivel joints shall be designed per MIL-DTL-5513 except all pressure-to-atmosphere dynamic seals shall be dual unvented.
Hoses and coiled tubes have superior in-service life and should be used in place of swivel joints where design permits.
Where lines or fittings are used to drive swivel joints, they shall be supported and strong enough to ensure proper operating
installation.
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3.10.29 Tubing
Tubing shall be either corrosion-resistant steel conforming to AMS-T-6845, MIL-T-8504, or AMS5561, or titanium alloy
conforming to AMS4944, AMS4945, or AMS4946. Aluminum alloy tubing per AMS4081 or AMS4083 may be used in pump
suction lines and drain lines only. The minimum wall thickness in any alloy or tube size shall be 0.020 inch (0.51 mm).
Bends shall be uniform and shall be per AS33611. Tubing ovality shall not exceed 3% for titanium alloys, 5% for
corrosion-resistant steels, and 10% for aluminum alloys. These ovality limits apply to the tubing as installed in the air vehicle.
For tube flatness greater than the limits of AS33611, tubing pre-stress (autofrettage) may be used to reduce the flatness to
meet the requirements of AS33611 for tube assemblies.
If tubing in sizes smaller than 3/8 inch (9.53 mm) outside diameter (-6 size) is used in hydraulic systems, particular care
shall be taken to properly install, support, and protect it, and it shall be shown that proper operation of the service in which
such tubing is used will be possible at -40 °F (-40 °C) temperature.
Straight tubing between two rigid tubing end connections shall not be used.
All hydraulic fluid lines shall be permanently marked using identification markings that are per MIL-STD-1247. Hoses do not
have to be marked if the adjacent tubing or component identifies the function.
Hydraulic lines shall be marked in conspicuous locations throughout the aircraft so that each run or line may be traced. This
marking shall indicate the unit operated and the direction of flow, such as LANDING GEAR UP ----------> or FLAPS DOWN
---------->. These markings shall be repeated as often as necessary, particularly on lines entering and emerging from closed
compartments, to facilitate maintenance work.
Where fittings are located in members, such as bulkheads and webs, each fitting location shall be identified (placarded)
with its system function, using the same terminology as on its connecting line.
All hydraulic tubing shall be supported from a rigid structure by MIL-DTL-85052 (MIL-DTL-85052/1 or MIL-DTL-85052/3)
loop-type cushion clamps, NASM85449 (NASM85449/1 or NASM85449/3) saddle type cushion clamps, or line block
clamps. Supports shall be placed as close as the design permits to the start of the bend to minimize tube overhang.
Maximum spacings between supports are specified in Tables 3 and 4, except that where tubes support fittings, such as
unions and tees, spacings should be reduced by approximately 20%.
When the required spacing cannot be met, an analysis shall be provided to substantiate that the line’s natural frequency
falls outside of any excitation frequency band within the region of interest. Where tubes of different diameters are connected
together, spacing of the smallest tube diameter shall be used. Provisions shall be made in support locations to accommodate
a change in tubing length caused by expansion and contraction. To facilitate inspection and repair, tubing shall not be
bundled together.
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Hydraulic lines shall not be installed in the cockpit or cabin and shall be remote from personnel stations. In addition, hydraulic
lines shall be located remotely from exhaust stacks and manifolds, electrical, radio, oxygen, and equipment lines, and
insulating materials. In all cases, the hydraulic lines shall be routed below these items to prevent fire from line leakage.
Hydraulic lines shall not be grouped with lines carrying other flammable fluids to prevent inadvertent cross-connection of
different systems. Hydraulic drain and vent lines shall exhaust in areas where the fluid cannot be blown into the aircraft,
collect in pools in the structure, or be blown onto or near exhaust stacks, manifolds, or other sources of heat.
Tubing shall be located so that damage cannot occur from being stepped on, used as handholds, or by manipulation of
tools during maintenance. Components and lines shall be so located that easy accessibility for inspection, adjustment, and
repair is possible. Hydraulic tubing shall not be used to provide support for other aircraft installations, such as wiring, other
aircraft tubing, or similar installations. Attachment of so-called marriage clamps for spacing of such installations is likewise
prohibited. Marriage or butterfly clamps may be used where required to maintain clearances between hydraulic tubing runs,
but not for the support of such tubes.
Tubing flares shall conform to AS33583 or AS4330 and shall be used only in drain or vent lines. When installing tube
connections, care shall be exercised to keep the wrenching torque used to assemble each joint within the limits specified
on MS21344.
The installation practices of ARP994 should be used as a guide for installing hydraulic systems.
Two or more lines attached to a hydraulic component shall be designed to prevent incorrect connection to the component.
Drain or overboard vent lines coming from the pump, reservoir, or other hydraulic components shall not be connected to
any other line or any other fluid system in the aircraft in such a manner as to permit a mixture of the fluids at any of the
components being drained or vented.
Lightweight components that do not have mounting provisions may be supported by the tubing installation, provided the
component is rigidly installed and does not result in destructive vibration or cause other adverse conditions to the tubing
installation. Clamps or similar devices may be used to support such units to structure, provided that nameplates,
flow-direction arrows or markings, or other data are not obscured and that the supporting members do not affect the
operation of the unit. If the unit cannot be supported by a clamp, the tubes on each side of the components shall be clamped
to the structure within 2.0 inches (50.8 mm) of the component.
The aircraft hydraulic system components, tubing, and distribution elements shall be bonded to the aircraft per
MIL-STD-464. All electrically conductive components shall have a mounting point to structure resistance not exceeding
2.5 mΩ.
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[Link] Vibration
The complete hydraulic system, including lines and components, shall be designed to withstand the effect of vibration, pump
pulsation, and shock loads encountered during the service operation of the aircraft. Care shall be taken to ensure that main
pump pressure discharge lines, clamps, and components can withstand the most adverse conditions of pump cavitation,
pulsation, and vibration.
Aramid fiber braid hose per MIL-H-85800 and AS1975 and wire braid hose per AS1339 shall not be used in pump discharge
lines due to the hose’s low vibration-tolerant construction.
Where tubing is supported by a structure or other rigid members, a minimum tube-to-structure clearance equal to the tube
clamp thickness shall be maintained with such a member. A minimum clearance of 0.25 inch (6.35 mm) shall be maintained
with adjacent structure, tubing, or other installations. Where hydraulic tubing is located less than 3.0 inches (76.2 mm) from
the centerline of the clamp block, clamp, or port interface, a minimum clearance of 0.125 inch (3.2 mm) shall be provided
to the adjacent structure. In areas where the relative motion of adjoining components exists, a minimum clearance of
0.25 inch (6.35 mm) shall be maintained under the most adverse conditions that may be encountered.
Hoses shall clear all other lines, equipment, and adjacent structures under every operating condition to prevent structural
damage, abrasion, or excessive wear due to vibration and flexural motion or aerodynamic buffeting where appropriate.
It is an objective that tube replacement or repair be accomplished without removing adjacent tubes. ARP994 provides data
on tool clearances required for the installation and repair of tubes using various approved fittings.
The pump suction line shall be designed to provide flow and pressure at the pump inlet port. This requirement shall include
operating the pump at the maximum output flow and shall include all ground and flight conditions the aircraft will encounter.
Zero-g and negative g conditions and low-temperature start, and operation shall also be included in the above requirement.
Flight control actuator installations shall provide positive clearance between moving flight control system components and
structure or other components to ensure that no possible combination of temperature effects, air loads, or structural
deflections can cause binding, rubbing, or jamming of any portion of the primary flight control system. A clearance of 0.5 inch
(12.7 mm) minimum is recommended.
3.11 Workmanship
Workmanship shall be of such quality as to assure that the hydraulic systems furnished under this specification are free of
defects that compromise, limit, or reduce performance or intended use.
4. FUNCTIONAL SIMULATOR
A functional simulator or simulators for the hydraulic system shall be constructed to determine system performance.
As required, separate simulators may be constructed for utility functions such as landing gear, wing fold, steering, and
brakes. However, all components required for flight control shall be on one simulator. The utility functions not on the flight
control simulator shall be reproduced with hydraulic demands and valves necessary to functionally control this load in the
system. Arrangements shall be made for the application of simulated flight loads. Components shall be mounted in the
orientation and height above the reservoirs as they are on the first flight aircraft to capture any effects of gravity.
Tube diameters, wall thickness, fittings, and tube material for all simulators shall be identical to those installed in the
first-flight aircraft. Tubing installations shall match the line length and total bend angle for each functional leg installed in the
aircraft. The line-to-line connections where no change in tube size or flow direction occurs may be eliminated.
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Prototype components or laboratory models may be used for systems development testing. However, before the first flight,
testing shall be accomplished on the simulator with all components and simulated loading incorporated. This safety of flight
testing shall simulate a mission profile to duplicate actual aircraft flight conditions. All functions shall operate in a sequence
to check on unusual back pressure, surges, temperature, pump pulsation, and vibration. They shall simulate start-up,
flight-control checkout, door closing, braking, steering, flap retraction, gear retraction, and power flight control under takeoff,
cruise, approach, landing, and taxi conditions. All emergency modes and system failure conditions as required by 3.2 shall
be demonstrated.
The simulator shall be maintained beyond the development and test phase to be used to evaluate significant changes to
the system during the production of the aircraft.
Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all
inspection requirements (examinations and tests) as specified herein. Except as otherwise specified in the contract or
purchase order, the contractor may use their own or any other facilities suitable for the performance of the inspection
requirements specified herein.
All items shall meet all requirements of Section 3. The inspection requirements provided in this specification shall become
a part of the contractor’s overall inspection system or quality program. The absence of any inspection requirements in the
specification shall not relieve the contractor of the responsibility of ensuring that all products or supplies comply with all
requirements of the contract. Sampling inspection, as part of manufacturing operations, is an acceptable practice to
ascertain conformance to requirements; however, this does not authorize the submission of known defective material, either
indicated or actual.
5.2 Inspection
The hydraulic system installation of one of the first complete experimental and production aircraft shall be subject to
inspection for conformance to the requirements of this specification by engineering representatives of the contracting
activity. It is expected that this inspection will be performed at the contractor’s plant concurrently with similar engineering
inspections of other systems of the aircraft. Detailed arrangements for the inspection will be the subject of correspondence
between the contracting activity and the contractor.
The hydraulic system of the first flight aircraft shall be tested before the first flight to determine if any destructive vibration
occurs as the result of all the combinations of engine and hydraulic pump speed, and hydraulic pump flows and pressures.
Hydraulic lines, hoses and their supports, fittings, and all components shall be checked. Corrective action shall be taken if
required.
The ground and flight test requirements for the testing of aircraft hydraulic systems designed per this specification shall be
as specified in MIL-STD-5522.
To ensure that the hydraulic system is free of contamination, all parts of the hydraulic system shall be thoroughly cleaned
before installation. ARP5891 provides a discussion of solid contamination removal and gives effective procedures for system
clean-up. Each new hydraulic system shall be operated at least ten times to ensure that all of the circulating fluid has been
filtered.
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Ground equipment that is used for this cleaning process shall be provided with filters specified in [Link]. Dead-end lines
in the system shall be properly connected with jumpers to completely clean such lines. If the filter element in the hydraulic
system is used during this operation, it shall be replaced. Chlorinated solvents shall not be used to clean hydraulic
components, lines, or fittings.
A minimum of two contamination tests shall be performed on each major system, separated by a minimum of 2 flight hours
and a determination made that contamination levels meet the minimum contamination level. The particulate contamination
level shall be below the level specified in [Link]. The level of water in each hydraulic system shall be less than 250 parts
per million at delivery. The level of chlorine shall be less than 100 parts per million at delivery. The method used to measure
chlorine shall be X-ray fluorescence or equivalent. The method shall be capable of detecting 10 ppm or greater total chlorine
in oil-based samples with a level of precision of ±10% at the 100-ppm level.
To obtain approval for the hydraulic system, the information in the following subparagraphs shall be included.
This study shall be done on proposed new aircraft during the preliminary design and definition phases of research,
experimental, or prototype aircraft (see Appendix A).
This study shall be done during the development phase of the hydraulic system (see Appendix A).
Tests shall be made on components other than those specified in Appendix B, B.2.1, when analysis suggests that these
tests are required (see Appendix B).
This study applies if there are any changes in the hydraulic system after the development phase (see Appendix A).
This is a specification incorporating the necessary functional tests of the hydraulic system of production aircraft (see
Appendix B).
The schematic diagram should be such as to present the system in a clear and easily readable form, with complete
subsystems grouped and labeled accordingly (see Appendix A).
This is a schematic diagram linking the mechanical system with the hydraulic system (see Appendix A).
This is a schematic diagram of the electrical portion of the hydraulic system (see Appendix A).
The design information shall be gathered before or with the final schematic diagram (see Appendix A).
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The nonstandard component cross-sectional assembly drawings shall contain information for an evaluation to determine
whether the nonstandard component should be used (see Appendix A).
A general design for the functional simulator shall be made 30 days before the construction of the simulator (see
Appendix A).
A hydraulic system vibration test plan shall be written for the first-flight aircraft (see Appendix A).
6. NOTES
A change bar (I) located in the left margin is for the convenience of the user in locating areas where technical revisions, not
editorial changes, have been made to the previous issue of this document. An (R) symbol to the left of the document title
indicates a complete revision of the document, including technical revisions. Change bars and (R) are not used in original
publications, nor in documents that contain editorial changes only.
Dimensions and properties in inch/pound units and the Fahrenheit temperatures are primary; dimensions and properties in
SI units and the Celsius temperatures are shown as the approximate equivalents of the primary units and are presented
only for information.
The following aerospace information reports provide useful information on the design of hydraulic systems and lessons
learned:
a. AIR1362
b. AIR1657
c. AIR1899
d. AIR4543
Any requirements associated with Qualified Products Lists (QPL) may continue to be mandatory for DoD contracts.
Requirements relating to QPLs have not been adopted by SAE for this standard and are not part of this SAE document.
A.1 SCOPE
This appendix covers information that shall be included in the certification/data report when specified in the contract or
order. This appendix is only mandatory when the data item description DI-MISC-80678 is cited on the DD Form 1423.
The data listed in this paragraph should be submitted for evaluation of design studies of a proposed new aircraft during the
preliminary design and definition phases of a research, experimental, or prototype aircraft. The contractor should submit a
report covering such design studies and analyses as are required to establish the design parameters of the hydraulic system
of the proposed aircraft. The design analysis should show that the hydraulic system fulfills the needs imposed by the weapon
system requirements. This report should include the following information and data:
a. Pressure and flow rates versus time for each mission profile along with the power load analysis.
b. A thermal analysis with temperature-versus-time curves for fluid temperature for typical missions and ground operations.
This analysis shall include the highest and lowest temperatures expected in flight, including the maximum temperatures
due to single failures such as worn pumps and relief valve bypass.
c. Fluid selection. Nonflammable (or less flammable) hydraulic fluids should be considered in the interest of reducing the
potential fire hazard in a combat environment. The fluid selection should be based on a trade study to ensure that
specific improvements in safety and survivability are realized without excessive penalty in hydraulic system
performance, operational capability, or cost of the aircraft. The trade study should consider reliability and all logistic
aspects over the expected life of the aircraft including supply and maintenance as well as the impact on support and
service equipment on the flight line, in repair shops, and in overhaul facilities.
3. Whether tubing materials having a strength-to-weight ratio higher than that of AMS-T-6845 can be used
successfully, consistent with (1) and (2) alone and be available within the time constraints of the program schedule.
The following data should be submitted for approval during the development phase of the hydraulic system and should be
for use as production procurement data:
b. Detail specifications, test procedures, and test reports for the following components:
2. Flight-control actuators
NOTE: Other components that may require surveillance, because of the criticality of the particular item to the proper
functioning of the weapon system, may be specified after the hydraulic system schematic diagrams have been
reviewed. The list of surveillance items will be established during early design reviews between the applicable
service engineers and the contractor.
Where changes have been made in the hydraulic system over the developmental hydraulic system, the developmental data
required in A.2.2 should be submitted.
The schematic diagram should consist of one copy of the conventional size and one copy approximately 11 inches (280 mm)
in height. The arrangement of the schematic diagram should be such to present the system in a clear and easily readable
form, with complete subsystems grouped and labeled accordingly. Emphasis should be placed on simplicity and clarity of
presentation, with the location in the aircraft being of secondary importance. The nomenclature of each unit should be made
adjacent to or in the vicinity of each unit. In addition, the schematic diagram should contain the following information:
c. Initial gas pressure of accumulators and their normal gas and fluid capacities.
f. Total and reserve fluid capacities of the reservoir, or reservoirs, and the system; reservoir pressure; and method of
pressurization.
g. Displacement of fluid in cubic inches of each actuating cylinder for both extension and retraction.
h. Actuating cylinder piston head diameter, rod diameter, effective piston area, total and working stroke of each cylinder.
i. Displacement per revolution and number of required revolutions of hydraulic motors for each half-cycle of operation and
the torque load required for each unit.
j. Type of power-driven pump and displacement, including flow rate curve showing the engine and pump rpm, for all
phases of flight such as takeoff, climb, cruise, and landing.
l. Reservoir pressurizing system source, operating pressure, and schematic diagram of plumbing.
m. Name and part number of all units. Standard part numbers should be indicated where applicable. Nonstandard units
should also include the name of the manufacturer and the manufacturer’s part number.
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n. Connections for testing with auxiliary or ground test power systems should be indicated.
p. Hydraulic components should be shown in a simplified schematic form. Multiple position units, such as selector valves,
should clearly indicate internal fluid porting. The flow path of selector valves should be shown for each position of the
valves. Hydraulic components should be shown per AS1290.
q. Maximum and normal system temperature (estimated). In estimating maximum and normal system temperatures, the
following conditions should be specified:
1. Location of temperature
2. Altitude
3. Ambient temperature
4. Compartment temperature
6. Time duration of flight and time duration limitations for ground operation at maximum system temperature
r. Pressure and temperature pickup locations to be installed for instrumentation purposes per MIL-STD-5522 should be
indicated on the copies of the schematic diagrams submitted to the contracting activity.
This is a simple schematic diagram of linkage showing mechanical disconnects, downlocks, unlocks, and other data to tie
the mechanical system to the hydraulic system for analysis.
This is a simple schematic wiring diagram of the electrical portion of the hydraulic system giving current loads and describing
functions. (This diagram and data may be on a separate drawing.)
The hydraulic system design report should be submitted before or with the final schematic diagram. The report should
incorporate sufficient design calculations and data to verify that the hydraulic system design complies with all design
requirements. A hydraulic system temperature survey (minimum through maximum) should be included considering the
location of the hydraulic system in the aircraft. The time of flight at maximum system temperature and conditions under
which this temperature occurs should be included. Compartment temperatures should be estimated.
For primary flight control systems, peak and average flow rates and the power spectrum should be indicated. The duration
of peak flow rates should also be indicated. The minimum temperature at which full performance occurs should be
determined by the contractor and submitted for approval.
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The cross-sectional assembly drawings for each nonstandard hydraulic component shall contain information so that an
evaluation of the unit can be made. Such information shall include the applicable specification, the material protective finish
of each part, and bearing load and life data for the application. This information may appear as a written addition to the
drawing. The reason for the use of a nonstandard component, where a standard exists, should be submitted with the
component drawing.
A report describing the general design of the functional simulator, as described in Section 4, and the anticipated test program
should be submitted to the contracting activity for approval no later than 30 days before beginning construction of the
simulator so that any modification to the simulator or revision of the test program recommended by the contracting activity
may be included.
A test plan for the vibration test in 5.2.1 should be submitted to the contracting activity for approval within 30 days before
the start of the test.
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B.1 SCOPE
This appendix covers information that shall be included in the test reports when specified in the contract or order. This
appendix is only mandatory when the data item description DI-MISC-80653 is cited on the DD Form 1423.
The following procedure should be adopted by the contractor for components not listed under A.2.2(b) in Appendix A:
a. The contractor should certify, upon completion of validating tests, that the hydraulic component conforms to the
applicable military or contractor-prepared specifications approved by the contracting activity and is satisfactory for use
in the particular aircraft weapon system and hydraulic system.
b. The test reports, as well as the specifications and other applicable engineering data covering the hydraulic system
components, other than those specified in Appendix A, A.2.2(b), should be retained by the contractor and should be
available to the contracting activity upon request, with the exception that all the cross-sectional assembly drawings
should be submitted for information.
c. The contractor should list, in a status of equipment list, those components that are contractor-certified for data availability
and compliance with the applicable government-approved specifications.
A specification incorporating the necessary functional tests of the hydraulic system of production aircraft should be submitted
to the contracting activity for approval.