Two Phase materials
Combinations of two materials produce unique and sometimes unsuspected results. Not the least of which is mass, obviously. Without a phase affinity between Ice and Fuel, the size of the clog would be reduced. Or, clogs might not form at all.
I've mentioned before colloids, and slurries. If the Ice is particulate, it's effect on thickened Fuel may be to create this occlusive material. The picture of the Face of the FOHE with "Ice" suggests "Packed Snow" rather than block Ice. The use of the Phrase "Occluded Artery" came to mind, and I note tanimbars further metaphor.
On the One hand, further research is assumed, but secondarily and of utmost importance is providing safe Fuel Systems for the affected a/c NOW.
Simply because the Fault can be broadened into discussions of "Chinese Fuel", "political Issues", and Safety/Commercial infighting deflects the focus of what should be:
Why is the AD adhered to as a FIX? If it is, it has massive exposure to failure.
1. The FOHE is defective by occurrence and by test.
2. The AD "relies" on this defective unit to prevent and/or to mitigate something the unit has CAUSED in the First Place.
There is NO free lunch, utilizing a faulty mechanism to perform a task it was not designed to, to allow the Fleet to continue to Fly?
To answer a previous post about the difference between ETOPS and "Quads" : From my perspective....... TWO ENGINES.
AF
Spilko, refreezing is a given at the FOHE in the midst of Fault, by definition. Overcome by ICE, the "melting" feature of the unit is overwhelmed, temps drop, and the migratory Ice "Packs" and freezes at the tube ends. I see your point, and terminology is critical here. Since there is no "precedent" for this, vocabulary will wean itself of misunderstanding as the mechanism is explored.
Last edited by airfoilmod; 14th March 2009 at 16:56.