“Screwdriver. Job done.”
“We never tear out the metal of the oil can. We only put a little part of the pliers or screwdriver.”
“We only punch 2 holes per can and not 20.”
“Exactly how I do it. With the point of the Leatherman pliers, 2 well aimed and convincing strikes just at the edge of the lid.”
“If it was that important about metal shavings the manufacturer or airline would have provided you with tools.”
We have heard it all, and we understand the challenge, it’s difficult to change old habits. The issue of FOD damage (foreign object debris) is real, even tiny particles in the oil will eventually lead to damage, repairs, faulty oil samples, expense and safety issues.
Everyday around the world aircraft engineers open thousands of turbine oil cans using screwdrivers, flat nosed pliers, Leatherman or a “church key”. Sharp metal tools will, almost always, deposit tool debris and can material in the oil. This contaminated oil is eventually poured into the aircraft turbine engine or hydraulic system.
As the debris enters the oil system these metal shavings wear the internal moving parts of the engine or hydraulic system by reducing clearance.
Solid particle presence in oil reduces its lubricating properties and leads to wear. Contamination by particles, even as small as 5 µm, affects the reliability and safety of the lubrication system. Larger particles – even worse!!
Read more and see the test video demonstrating the effect of metal debris in the oil from can opening with metal tools Why-fod-shortens-turbine-engine-bearing-life
Do you want to take that risk ?
Why do old habits die so hard? We are creatures of habit and changing our routine takes an open mind, there will obviously be some who remain fixed to their old habits.
Photo: Helicopter Work Aids Bell 407 toolbox with dedicated spot for TheCanKey FOD free oil can opener
Management encouragement to follow a simple sequence of steps gets the team onboard:
- Instil consideration and understanding of the risks of FOD. Open conversations about the problem and establish knowledge about it. At TheCanKey we focus on building knowledge, led by our 30+ years’ experience as aircraft engineers. Review our series of newsletters and recommendations for input and inspiration.
- Drive a change in habits, create an action plan to ensure a smooth transition for the organization, include securing new tools, like TheCanKey tools. See our offer.
- Make it simple and easy to use the new tools by making them readily available: near the aircraft, in every toolbox, in the tool store, next to oil cans.
- Set clear and consistent procedures that require implementation of the new habit. Establish routines of checking how the implementation goes. Offer support and accountability procedures e.g. use your employee ‘early adopters’ as ambassadors of change, coach and support the wider group.
- Give it time, it takes days. even weeks, for any new routine to become a habit. Don’t abandon the new routines after the first attempt, be determined and celebrate the small successes. We have observed many success stories like the Norwegian Air Ambulance operator Avincis who saved money and time due to FOD risk prevention measurements: Read more. Or seaplanes operator who saves on environmental fines by implementing FunnelCaps: Read more.
- Accept that procedural amendments might be required, keep the topic of FOD risk prevention open and current. With persistence, change will become inevitable.
