First Engine Runs; Priming The Fuel System - RHINO Power Pack series Operation Manual

Turbine engines

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To prevent this:

· During the start-up listen to the turbine sound to check for positive sound of ignition,

check looking from the exhaust that the kero is burning, or check for an increase in

exhaust temperature in the data terminal.

If you see a small plume of white smoke from the exhaust mean that the kero is not burning,

so the kero is pooling inside the engine. Abort the start immediately.

· After a failed start, or whatever condition could cause that fuel be collected inside the

engine (i.e. extra priming), ALWAYS empty the engine of fuel by tilting the engine

nose down. Fuel will exit through the intake. Do not tilt upwards, due at the internal

engine construction; the fuel cannot exit through exhaust.

Another big difference between gas start and kero start is that the kerosene can keep burning

during long time inside the engine. This situation usually happens during an aborted start.

The start-up sequence is aborted by the user or automatically before the engine arrives to

idle. This can cause that the kerosene inside the engine to keep burning for long time, and

could destroy the engine or the model. IF A STARTUP SEQUENCE IS NOT COMPLETED,

ALWAYS CHECK FOR FLAME INSIDE THE ENGINE. If there is flame, lower the trim and

then set full throttle to engage the starter and blow out the flame, it takes a couple of seconds

to engage. USE SHORT BURSTS OF STARTER. Using the starter for long time can destroy

the starter motor. In the case that the start-up procedure has been aborted due at starter

failure, then it will be necessary to apply the CO2 fire extinguisher. White smoke from the

engine is a good indication here; mean that there is no fire inside.

6.2.3 First engine runs

· Confirm your test stand is securely fixed to a bench or heavy table. Keep your ear

defenders within easy reach and a CO2 fire extinguisher handy. THIS IS VERY

IMPORTANT ON KEROSTART ENGINES.

· Fill the fuel tank. Do not forget to filter the fuel, and to mix the oil.

· Confirm all batteries are freshly charged and connected up. USE ONLY 7.4V

Batteries.

· Check there is a temperature reading on the data terminal.

· Ensure the running area is clear of onlookers – especially the prohibited zone of a 10

meter radius 180° arc from engine center around the rear.

· Verify that the fuel tubes are full of fuel and purged of all air, if not; carry out the fuel

prime sequence as described here.

Both main fuel and starting fuel lines require the purging of all air after initial installation. Take

extra care when priming the lines; ensure that excess fuel is not pumped into the turbine.

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