Engine Component Failure During Climb

Casualties unknown • Appleton, WI, US

An aircraft experienced an engine failure after a turbine module separated from the engine during a climb through 3,000 feet.

What happened

During a climb through 3,000 feet mean sea level, approximately 4 nautical miles from the airport, a low pressure turbine module separated from the engine and departed the aircraft. The incident occurred while the aircraft was climbing.

The investigation

An examination of the engine's internal components revealed significant debris and blockages:

  • The B-sump forward scavenge screen was completely blocked with coke and contained metallic flakes, the largest measuring 1/3 inch by 1/3 inch. This screen was also partially collapsed.
  • The B-sump aft scavenge screen was approximately 90 percent blocked and contained metallic flakes.
  • Oil samples from both the B-sump forward and aft scavenge lines were black and contained black particles.
  • The C-sump forward scavenge screen was roughly 75 percent blocked with coke, though the center portion remained clear.
  • The C-sump aft screen was 5 percent blocked.
  • The oil filter contained black oil and black particles, and the bypass button had popped.

Findings

Investigation of the engine components identified extensive contamination and mechanical failure, specifically noting the presence of coke and metallic flakes within the scavenge screens and oil filter.

Probable cause

The separation of a low pressure turbine module from the engine was caused by significant internal blockages and contamination, including coke and metallic debris, within the engine's scavenge screens and oil filtration system.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-02-27 Canadair CL-600-2B19 accident near Appleton, WI?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure after a turbine module separated from the engine during a climb through 3,000 feet.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-02-27 involved a Canadair CL-600-2B19, registration N991CA, operated by Comair, Inc., at Appleton, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The separation of a low pressure turbine module from the engine was caused by significant internal blockages and contamination, including coke and metallic debris, within the engine's scavenge screens and oil filtration system.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020301X00292. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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