AMNT322_HaleyBurns_4

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University *

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322

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Mechanical Engineering

Date

Jan 9, 2024

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docx

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8

Uploaded by KidWallaby3901

Critical Analysis of the United Flight 232 Crash 1 United Flight 232 Crash: A Critical Analysis of Technical Failures in Aircraft Maintenance Haley Burns Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
BURNS 2 Abstract The United Flight 232 crash, which occurred on July 19, 1989, is a tragic incident that stands as a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences that can result from a failure to follow technical guidance in aircraft maintenance. This research project aims to critically analyze the accident, shedding light on its contributing factors and the lapses in maintenance procedures that played a pivotal role.
BURNS 3 United Flight 232 Background United Flight 232 was a scheduled domestic passenger flight from Denver to Chicago operated by a McDonnell Douglas DC-10. The aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure of its tail-mounted engine while cruising at an altitude of 37,000 feet. The failure was caused by the disintegration of the fan disk in the tail engine, leading to the loss of hydraulic fluid and subsequent loss of control over the aircraft. Contributing Factors Faulty Fan Disk Design The root cause of the accident was identified as a manufacturing defect in the fan disk of the tail engine. The flaw, undetected during routine inspections, eventually led to the catastrophic failure. The critical analysis should delve into the specifics of this design flaw, emphasizing how it went unnoticed during maintenance checks. Inadequate Inspection Procedures The research project should explore the maintenance and inspection procedures in place at the time of the accident. It is crucial to examine whether these procedures were sufficient in detecting the manufacturing defect and whether any lapses in adherence to technical guidance occurred during routine maintenance.
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