Filtration is crucial for maximizing aircraft performance and ensuring the safety of everyone on board. It protects the engine from damage caused by contaminants, improves air quality by removing dangerous airborne particles, and so much more!
When searching for filtration parts, you may come across PMA aircraft filters. This refers to filters manufactured by a company other than the original manufacturer. Therefore, they need to go through a rigorous approval process by a trusted organization like the FAA. In today’s blog, we will discuss FAA approval as a cornerstone of quality for PMA aircraft filters and break down the approval process.
No matter where you’re located, contact Global Filtration for PMA aircraft filters and other critical aircraft filtration components.
What is a PMA Aircraft Filter?
There are two main types of aircraft parts: OEM and PMA. OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer,” and refers to equipment manufactured by the original aircraft or engine manufacturer. PMA stands for “Parts Manufacturer Approved,” referring to equipment manufactured by a company other than the original manufacturer.
Since PMA aircraft parts are not made by the original manufacturer, their design and production need approval for replacement and modification. Unlike OEM parts, PMA parts are not produced under a Type Certification (TC) or Supplemental Type Certification (STC) held by the original producer. An FAA certification ensures that PMA parts meet the same airworthiness standards as original parts, maintaining their safety and reliability.
Overview of the FAA and PMA Application Process
The FAA, or the Federal Aviation Administration, has two primary components for PMA approval: Design Approval and Manufacturing Inspection System (MIS) Approval. Design Approval demonstrates that the PMA aircraft filter’s design conforms to the aircraft, while MIS Approval shows that the manufacturer has a robust system to ensure production of conforming parts.
The approval process typically begins by identifying airworthiness standards applicable to the PMA aircraft filter. Then, the applicant assesses the criticality of the part and submits a test plan for Design Approval. This determines how the part will be tested to meet the airworthy requirements mentioned above. Testing is then conducted, quality control is established, and a safety plan is created to ensure the part remains safe over its lifetime. Once the FAA has reviewed the documentation and conducted all necessary inspections, it can approve the PMA aircraft filter.
Design Data and Substantiation
Now let’s take a look at the different methods for Design Approval.
- Identically Without a License Agreement: Proving the part is identical to the original part and can be produced without a license from the TC holder. This requires extensive data and analysis.
- Test and Computation: Demonstrating compliance with airworthiness standards through testing, analysis, and computation.
- Licensing Agreement: Producing a part under a license from the TC holder.
There must be rigorous proof through documentation, engineering drawings, specifications, test plans, reports, stress analyses, and material specifications to meet FAA regulations.
Although FAA regulations are meticulous, they are necessary. These safeguards ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft components, including PMA aircraft filters. Choosing PMA-approved parts is a commitment to quality and compliance, benefiting the entire industry.
For more information on PMA aircraft filters, contact Global Filtration today.