Regular inspection of aircraft engine compressor and combustor sections is vital for maintaining engine performance and reliability. These areas contain critical components such as blades, vanes, and liners that are constantly exposed to high-speed airflow, thermal stress, and mechanical strain. Even small defects like cracks, corrosion, or deformation can affect efficiency and lead to expensive repairs if left unaddressed. Borescope inspections provide a method to visually assess these internal components safely and efficiently, allowing maintenance teams to detect issues early and maintain consistent engine performance.
Understanding Compressor Section Components
The compressor section consists of multiple stages of rotating and stationary blades, which increase air pressure before combustion. Blade tips, roots, and casing surfaces are prone to wear, erosion, and surface cracking due to repeated mechanical and thermal stress. Traditional inspections may require partial disassembly to access internal areas, which is time-consuming and increases the risk of human error. Borescopes provide visual access through inspection ports, enabling thorough assessment of blade surfaces, vanes, and other critical areas while maintaining engine integrity.
Preparing for a Borescope Inspection
Effective inspections begin with careful preparation. Technicians should review engine maintenance records and identify areas previously noted for wear or damage. Selecting the appropriate borescope model, including probe length, articulation, and camera resolution, ensures access to all target areas. Proper lighting, lens selection, and focus adjustments are necessary for high-quality imaging. Using an inspection checklist helps maintain systematic coverage and reduces the risk of missing important components.
Techniques for Accessing Internal Areas
Compressor and combustor sections contain tight spaces that are difficult to reach. Flexible borescopes with multi-directional articulation allow technicians to position the camera for optimal viewing angles. 2-way or 4-way articulating probes provide greater control, enabling inspection of leading edges, trailing edges, and airfoil surfaces. By carefully maneuvering the probe and adjusting angles, technicians can observe hidden areas without removing major engine components.
Inspecting Blades and Vanes
Blades and vanes in the compressor section experience high stress and are common locations for wear, erosion, or cracks. Using a borescope, technicians can examine blade surfaces, tips, and roots for damage. High-resolution imaging helps detect surface irregularities, small cracks, or material degradation. Systematically scanning each blade ensures that no areas are overlooked. Early detection of blade wear allows timely repairs, improving engine efficiency and extending component life.
Examining the Combustor Section
The combustor section operates at extremely high temperatures, making it susceptible to thermal damage, oxidation, and cracking. During borescope inspections, technicians should examine liners, fuel nozzles, and transition pieces. Look for signs of heat-related discoloration, corrosion, or deformation. Proper lighting and probe positioning enhance visibility, allowing subtle defects to be identified. Capturing images for documentation provides a reference for future inspections and supports accurate maintenance records.
Checking Cooling Passages and Holes
Both compressor and combustor sections often contain cooling passages to manage temperatures and maintain component longevity. Blocked or damaged passages can reduce airflow, causing hotspots and accelerated wear. Borescope inspections allow technicians to verify that cooling holes are unobstructed and surfaces are clean. Magnified imaging helps identify deposits, erosion, or scaling that could compromise cooling efficiency.
Identifying Signs of Corrosion and Erosion
High-pressure airflow, moisture, and chemical exposure can lead to corrosion and erosion in compressor and combustor sections. Using a borescope, technicians can inspect for pitting, surface roughness, and material loss. Areas around blade roots, vanes, and casings should be examined closely, as these locations are more susceptible. Documenting findings helps track wear progression and plan maintenance interventions. Early identification of corrosion or erosion prevents more extensive damage and reduces repair costs.
Systematic Inspection Methods
Efficiency and thoroughness are essential for borescope inspections. Technicians should follow a structured approach, inspecting one section at a time and using defined scanning patterns. Rotating the probe or adjusting articulation ensures complete visual coverage of blades, vanes, and combustor liners. Recording images and video allows technicians to review inspections, compare with previous records, and generate detailed reports. A consistent methodology reduces the chance of missed defects and improves overall inspection reliability.
Documentation and Reporting
Comprehensive documentation is vital for regulatory compliance, maintenance planning, and operational safety. Borescope inspections should include high-quality images and video of all observed defects or irregularities. Annotating images with locations and measurements supports accurate evaluation and decision-making. Maintaining a digital record allows trend analysis and monitoring of wear over time, ensuring maintenance actions are based on evidence. Proper documentation also facilitates communication between inspection teams, engineering staff, and management.
Training and Technician Proficiency
Proper borescope inspections require trained and experienced personnel. Technicians must be skilled in probe manipulation, image interpretation, and defect documentation. Hands-on practice enhances the ability to detect cracks, corrosion, deformation, and erosion. Well-trained technicians perform inspections more efficiently while maintaining accuracy, reducing engine downtime, and supporting reliable operations. Continuous training ensures that inspection standards remain high and consistent across maintenance teams.
Optimizing Aircraft Engine Inspection Workflows
Borescope inspections are essential for maintaining compressor and combustor sections of aircraft engines. Using proper preparation, systematic inspection techniques, and high-resolution imaging, technicians can identify wear, corrosion, cracks, and deformation without dismantling major components. Documenting findings and maintaining digital records supports maintenance planning and compliance. For aviation professionals seeking advanced, reliable tools to optimize inspections, USA Borescopes provides equipment designed to improve accuracy, efficiency, and operational safety. Contact them today.
About the Author
The Author is a technical writer with expertise in aviation maintenance, mechanical systems, and industrial inspection technology. They focus on creating content that communicates complex technical procedures clearly and effectively for professionals. With experience analyzing inspection workflows and emerging maintenance tools, they provide practical insights that support operational efficiency and safety.