Detailed airframe inspection thanks to remote visual inspection tools
Inspecting airframes requires a full range of metrology and inspection tools, especially when considering design, manufacture and in-service parts. Once assembled and in-service, many components that make up an airframe will be difficult to access, especially to the naked eye: detailed inspections become almost impossible.
Remote visual inspection is the only way to accurately inspect all areas of an airframe.
Borescopes and endoscopes for airframe inspections
Airframes are a critical part of an aircraft acting as the structural skeleton. Airframes must withstand huge amounts of pressure, from cabin weights to air pressure changes and aerodynamics. Due to this challenging environment, defects and damage can occur affecting the structural integrity of the airframe. Routine maintenance and inspection to check for the following is essential for ensuring the safety of aircrafts.
Cracks and mechanical fatigue
Corrosion and rust
Foreign object damage (FOD)
Wear and tear
Debris and residue buildup
Fluid Leaks
Damaged seals
Loose or missing parts
Many of these items will be hidden in the structure of the airframe and will require a borescope or videoscope to provide a detailed view of the surface. Videoscopes are usually the first choice, combining flexible probes at varying lengths to suit the design of the airframe. Videoscopes and flexible borescopes can be manoeuvred through small openings and around bends to reach inaccessible areas. We highly recommend the Hawkeye V3 Video Borescope for many aerospace applications.
The tip of the probe contains a miniature HD camera for clearer defect identification, LED light for clear illumination and can also be articulated with joystick controls. A dual view videoscope with 2 micro cameras for front and side inspection views such as the Hawkeye Q2 Dual View HD Video Borescope provides exceptional versatility. Image and video capture, built into the videoscope controller allows technicians to capture and save high-quality images and video of the inspection, which is essential for documentation, reporting, and getting a second opinion from other experts.
Hawekeye V3 Borescopes for airframe inspection tasks
The V3 is one of many Borescopes manufactured by Gradient Lens. The range includes rigid, flexible, and video models. Many clients benefit from the standard inspection kit, while the deluxe kit adds a side view and close focus tips, a stand, rigidity, and an additional battery (note, these are also available as stand-alone accessories).
