How cold do parked aircraft get and can that cause damage?
Join Date: Feb 2017
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Canada's Cold Weather Testing Establishment determined that air-cooled piston engine operation at low rpm, i.e. idling and taxiing, is not recommended in surface temperatures lower than -38C. Baffle plates installed ahead of the cylinders reduce the effect of cold air engine blast to a small degree. Potable/fresh water systems should be drained in anticipation of extended below-freezing soaks. Portable electric heaters can be used to warm the cabin.
Typical engine pre-heater in use. Note this Cessna 207A Stationair 8 has anti-gravel protector flaps installed immediately aft of the main wheels.
Typical engine pre-heater in use. Note this Cessna 207A Stationair 8 has anti-gravel protector flaps installed immediately aft of the main wheels.
Last edited by Kewbick; 6th Apr 2017 at 17:17.
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Not sure on airliners, but modern business jets have the ability to purge the water lines while in flight. That minimizes the skating rink on the ramp.
In addition, any liquid needs to be given consideration...Perrier, cans of Coke, bottles of Champaign, etc.
My AFM has a chart that shows outside air temp vs. hours on the ground.
Follow the two selected columns to your answer of how often you must run the Aux Power Unit/Cabin heaters to preclude water system freezing. A heated hangar simplifies the whole process, but some places do not offer such luxuries.
