Edge protection | Chafe protection | All Aircraft | EC135 Helicopter

In this 8 minute video we look at how to install/attach edge protection. This edge protection, MBBN3406-x is installed on many aircraft, probably every Airbus helicopter, all over the aircraft for the reasons of chafe protection. Usually where a wire bundle passes near the airframe. My guess is that avionics guys know learn this on day 3 or 4, but the guys in the field who never deal with this product (Rayrim) have no idea. I was educated on this nearly 10 years ago. I see a lot of edge protection on the Airbus EC135 helicopter main drive shaft fairings (clamshell fairing) falling off or installed incorrectly when I travel around.

The edge protection is a simple install, or attachment. This part is pre-pregnated with heat activated glue. Do not attach the edge protection with silicone wacker, or 1300L neoprene adhesive or the like. This will not hold up to the oil and heat in the area. Proper adhesion with the heat activated adhesive is crucial.

We review where to find the part number which is hard to find. The AMM and MTC tasks that talk about this edge protection. And we find the Raychem Rayrim document that explains how to install this. Airbus' maintenance manual simply tells you to use a hot air blower, which is better than nothing if you can find the maintenance task card that tells you this.

It was explained to me, by a pilot who had just returned from EC135 training, that the edge protection on the main driveshaft covers or fairings was there to protect the pilot from being cut by the fairing (removable firewall) when he conducted his daily pre-flight and checked the freewheeling unit. I am not sure how true that is but it sounds reasonable. With that being said, if a piece of this edge protection fell off and is no longer attached, is taking the aircraft out of service a reasonable or rational response? I guess it comes down to the company you work for, your mission profile, and which regulatory agency who has authority over you.

Good luck, don't get burned on the install.

Additional helpful link:
Product Installation Procedure for Rayrim:
https://www.te.com/commerce/DocumentD...

A special shout out to the Airbus H135/EC135 tech support, local and Grand Prairie. You guys are life savers. Thank you for all the help you have provided to me over the years.

Thank you for watching. I hope you found value in this video.

Regards,
-Helicopter Maintenance Help Desk