Whether it an auxiliary power unit or aircraft engine one of the fastest ways to waste asset value is not taking the proper precautions of using the correct shipping methods.
A question often asked is what is non-certified equipment?
Non-certified equipment simply means that the drawing used to manufacture the equipment has not been approved by the OEM – CFM, GE, PW, Honeywell etc.
A Certified OEM APU stand or engine stand is made to strict manufacturing guidelines in material, workmanship and processes determined by the OEM.
The use of non-certified equipment often means the equipment may be poorly fabricated, made with cheaper material including cheaper steel/metal, deficient or incomplete welding and other issues. We have experienced and seen incidents of the damaging effects of improperly transporting an APU or engine on non-certified equipment. To be sure your stand is of standard we will provide a Certificate of Conformity which ensures your stand conforms to OEM manufacturing specifications, standards and has passed all tests. An OEM certified stand complies with features such as the .095 ASTM A500 Mechanical tubing, durable chemical resistant shock absorbers engineered to support specific engine model, precision machined stainless steel engine mounts, hardware and assembly plate. Stands are manufactured and calibrated to meet unique dimensions of engine mounting points. Also the use of skilled and certified technicians during the manufacturing and fabrication process.
Are crates needed for the transportation of APUs with the stand?
Honeywell only requires crates with the GTCP 131-9B and GTCP 131-9C APU.s. Crates are optional. You can use the crate for storage of the APU on the stand.
Is an APU transportation stand the same as an APU removal dolly?
No a removal dolly is only used to remove and move the APU from wing with APU hoists.
How do I know piece of equipment is approved?
A Honeywell APU stand for example will have a Honeywell Data Plate.
