ACES Soars High with FAA Approval for GEN II Analyzers! ACES Systems is proud to announce that our innovative ACES GEN II Analyzers have received official approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for use on Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A engines using MORE STC’s and ICA’s! This means you now have a reliable and…
ACES quickly recognized the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vessel. This multi-purpose landing craft was deployed to support the recent balloon recovery operations. The Technology for Energy Corporation (TEC) team, through our Aviation Division (ACES Systems) supports every vessel in this fleet with fan balancing equipment, like the Viper 2E. The system is energized with…
In an effort to ensure better security for our clients and ourselves, we have added an extra layer of protection by implementing two-factor authentication, also commonly referred to as 2FA. What that means for you is that the next time (or the first time) you attempt to log in to the Technical Library or anywhere…
ACES Systems, a subsidiary of Technology for Energy Corp (Knoxville, TN), is proud to announce the delivery of 32 Viper 2E kits to the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The kits will be used for vibration surveys on the Rolls Royce F402 Pegasus engines. “8 months, contract award to delivery is a noteworthy achievement,…
Technology for Energy Corp. (TEC), the parent company of ACES Systems, has acquired RadioBro Corporation, an innovative engineering team focused on the development and production of embedded measurement devices and wireless communication technologies for the aerospace and defense industries. “What really excites me about RadioBro’s technology is that it allows ACES Systems to possess true…
History In the early 1990s, ACES Systems launched the beginning of the Model 1000 propeller balancing product line. We originally released the ACES Systems Model 1000 Analyzer Series in the early 1990s, continued its evolution up to the Model 1010 and 1012, and then ceased production in 2002 as the next generation of ACES products…
Do you need an easy method to verify your vibration inputs on your Cobra II and Viper II are working properly? Click here for a quick and economical step-by-step procedure. You can also purchase a 440Hz tuning fork that can be shipped to you directly by clicking here. SPECIAL OFFER: all purchases of the 440Hz…
2020 has been a year of substantial change around the world. Millions of businesses and billions of people have had to make major adjustments to their daily routines and ACES Systems is no exception. Fortunately, ACES and its associated instrumentation product lines are classified as part of the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers as defined by…
To all valued ACES Systems customers and affiliates. System Obsolescence is a common occurrence with computerized electronic equipment. ACES Systems has worked hard at supporting all legacy equipment with repair and calibration services for 3 decades. However, it has become challenging to continue to support many of the legacy processors and equipment. Starting Jan 1…
TEC and its associated instrumentation product lines are classified as part of the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers as defined by the Department of Homeland Security. Our instrumentation is used widely to support aviation, nuclear power production, electricity distribution and military customers. All of these industries are defined as critical infrastructure. Additionally, many of our customers…
Like you, we’re monitoring the latest news about the coronavirus (COVID-19). We remain committed to the health and safety of our staff, which is of utmost importance to us. While the current risk in Tennessee remains low, President Trump declared a national emergency on March 13 to protect public health and our vulnerable populations and…
This Software Release Notice covers information applicable to Service Pack 6 for the Viper II and Cobra II analyzers. The purpose of the update is to add new features and enhance current features already in the Generation II analyzers. SP6 also addressed discrepancies and recommendations in our continual quality improvement of our products and service…
Aircraft vibration is not something to be written off. If parts aren’t balanced correctly, you can risk cracking, failed avionics, and loss of engine performance. This can also contribute to metal fatigue which, if left unrepaired, can lead to potentially catastrophic engine failure. This is why monitoring aircraft vibrations is one of the most important…
According to 2017 statistics, there are about 131,500 aircraft mechanics and service technicians currently employed in the United States. As an aviation maintenance mechanic or supervisor, your job is to make sure that the aircraft in your service is safe and in its optimal condition to fly. For you to do this, you need to…
In 2015, there were 24,142,000 aircraft flight hours logged in total. With so much time spent flying, it’s important to take an active role in maintaining your aircraft to ensure it operates as it should. One of the most common issues pilots have to deal with is aircraft vibration. Vibration can cause a great deal…
As of 2011, there were 224,475 estimated aviation craft active in the United States. With so many planes and helicopters in use, it’s important to understand field balance equipment and how to properly conduct propeller balancing. Monitor Vibrations Vibration can be detrimental to every aspect of an aircraft. Control systems, instruments, avionics, and engine mounts…
Aircraft vibration is one of the technical or mechanical problems that most aircraft experience. Every aircraft is built with the intention of minimizing vibration to the lowest levels possible or eliminating it completely. Increased vibration is uncomfortable for pilots and passengers and can be quite unnerving when one is 10,000 feet above the ground. Although…
Helicopter vibration problems can quickly become an inconvenience for the flight crew and a costly problem for technicians. If unchecked, the excess vibration can reduce the lifespan of instruments and mechanical components. As such, accurate and quick vibration analysis is essential in determining the causes of vibration and how it will get fixed. This article…
Flying a plane or helicopter takes skill, a vast amount of knowledge, and experience. To be a great pilot, you also need to have great instincts. If something goes wrong in the sky, it’s up to the pilot to land the aircraft safely. If you’re considering a career in aviation, then it’s important to understand…
All aircraft requires regular maintenance according to the specifications of their manufacturers. Routine service ensures the aircraft is in good condition and is safe for flying, which is crucial whether you own an entire fleet of planes or a single craft. However, there are some common aircraft maintenance mistakes you don’t want to make when…
You must have faith in your equipment, and the right portable balance equipment will help you to have the confidence you need to make the right repairs. There are a few things that you must have in your arsenal of equipment to ensure you are delivering the best service. In 2017 there were over 131,000…
Helicopter maintenance is a growing industry, and a portable vibration analyzer can keep you ahead of your competition. The good news is: if your industry has anything to do with helicopter maintenance, you are experiencing a boom in operations. Commercial helicopter sales were up around 5 billion dollars last year. There is more good news,…
One easy thing you can do:Â invest in a vibration analyzer to increase longevity. Vibrations can seriously shorten the life of your avionics and high quality instruments. One of the best vibration analyzers is the Viper II from ACES systems. Why can vibrations be dangerous? Although some vibration is commonplace, it is a keep part…
The Signs and Common Causes of Aircraft Vibration With over 24 million general aviation flight hours logged in 2015, being able to properly maintain your aircraft is extremely important. Aircraft maintenance consists of everything from having the proper aviation equipment, to being able to track bearing vibration (or monitor vibration overall with a portable vibration…
Studies carried out by FAA suggests that aviation supports a staggering 10,600,000 jobs in the U.S.A. On the other hand, while the profitability in the aviation sector remains stable, that does not mean that other challenges been eradicated. A lot has been done to quell the situations, but a lot more needs to be done….
Maintenance for aircraft is a very important aspect in the aviation industry as it ensures the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo. This explains why, in 2017, more than 131,500 aircraft mechanics and service technicians were employed in the United States’ aviation industry. Mechanics and technicians who provide various services such as repair and maintenance…
Aviation is an important and growing industry around the world — in fact, global commercial helicopter sales were predicted to reach about $5 billion in 2017 alone. But aircraft haven’t always been this popular and commonly used. The world of aviation has undergone a lot of changes over the years, particularly regarding aircraft propellers. And…
What is Field Balancing? Field balancing is a method that aircraft mechanics use to balance a rotating part without removing the part from the machine it belongs to. Some of the advantages of field balancing are obvious: saved time by not removing the part that rotates and ensuring that the rotating part is balanced as…
Aircraft maintenance is a critical part of owning any plane, whether you have one helicopter or an entire fleet. All aircraft need to be serviced regularly according to the specifications that were provided by their manufacturers. That’s exactly why ACES Systems has come up with these 4 aircraft maintenance tips to keep you safe in…
It has been more than a century since the first commercial flight took off from St. Petersburg, Florida and landed, a mere half hour later, in Tampa. In those 100+ years, the industry has polished and perfected the art of aircraft operation and maintenance. A key factor in making flight the safest way to travel has been the establishment…
Recently, James Bridenstine, the Administrator of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) gave a presentation on the agency’s budget that he received from President Donald Trump. Among the projects he mentioned, was the potential to return to the age of supersonic air travel in the United States. His agency, he said, is currently working with…
Aircraft are used each and every day in the United States. From transporting goods to moving people from one place to another, helicopters have an important role to play. And seeing as how there were about 224,475 total active general aviation craft in the U.S. in 2011 alone, aviation engineers have their hands full maintaining…
The aviation industry is one of the biggest and most important industries in the world. As air travel becomes more affordable, people are looking to travel: in 2015 alone, there were over 24 million general aviation flight hours logged. While increased business means increased profit, only nations that possess their own domestic airlines can benefit…
The 131,500 aircraft mechanics and service technicians that were working in the U.S. in 2017 have a lot of different tools and machines they need to do their jobs properly. One of the most important tools in the aircraft service industry is a balancing machine. This article is going to delve into what a portable…
Helicopter vibration can present dangers to the aircraft and both passengers and crew members on board. Not only can it shorten the lifespan of certain aircraft components, but it can also make flight both uncomfortable and unsafe. Part of regular maintenance for aircraft is identifying types and origins of helicopter vibrations and taking steps to…
Flying an aircraft is a privilege that not many people will get to enjoy in their lifetime. Becoming a pilot is a huge responsibility! You’re responsible not only for the aircraft you’re flying, but the passengers inside. Not to mention, you’re in the air. Aviation maintenance is a matter of life and death if it’s…
The many moving parts of an aircraft means that there will be a considerable amount of vibration while the aircraft is in operation. As pilots logged 24,142,000 general aviation flight hours in 2015, the same number of hours saw a variety of vibration and treatment for the vibration with portable vibration analyzers. However, not all…
In order to properly balance the components of your aircraft, you should use field balancing equipment so that you are working on the components when they are in the same position as they are in flight. Performing aircraft maintenance in these conditions will ensure the safest conditions possible and with the FAA estimating that aviation…
Analyzing vibration in an aircraft is a delicate procedure. There will always be some vibration whenever the aircraft is on, making absolutely perfect balance unattainable. There are still standards to field balancing procedure to ensure that the bearings on the aircraft are not taking a beating from the machine. To ensure that you have realistic…
Western Michigan University is partnering with a global provider of aviation services, AAR. The goal of this partnership is to provide real-life aircraft maintenance training and work experience for students who are studying to become aircraft maintenance technicians. Through this partnership, WMU also aims to give these students the opportunity to be hired in the…
History In the early 1990s, ACES Systems launched the beginning of the Model 1000 propeller balancing product line. We originally released the ACES Systems Model 1000 Analyzer Series in the early 1990s, continued its evolution up to the Model 1010 and 1012, and then ceased production in 2002 as the next generation of ACES products…
Problem Are you experiencing issues performing a track and balance using your ACES Analyzer with a TraX? You may have a blade offset problem.  Unfortunately, blade offset issues cause erratic readings due to the analyzer misinterpreting Blade #1 as another blade on the aircraft. Blade Offset Setting Overview The ACES TraX can compensate for Main…
Simplify TFE731 Performance Runs With the New EMS Direct Connect System ACES Systems is proud to announce a new EMS (Engine Management Software) Direct Connect feature for the Viper II that does not require the use of the Model 1752B JEDA for 5-point performance runs on Honeywell TFE731 engines. Using the Viper II, the EMS…
The aircraft industry has been taking flight in recent years, with global helicopter sales in 2017 expected to amount to almost $5 billion. This massive investment also requires an attention to maintenance for aircraft, which often involves using field balancing equipment. Use this comprehensive field balancing checklist to keep your jobs on track and in…
Vibration in an aircraft can be very normal, as it will inevitably be caused by the many moving parts in an aircraft. In 2015 there were 24,142,000 general aviation flight hours logged, and operators who logged any of those hours need to be aware of unusual vibration and how it impacts the entire aircraft. Bearing…
When you are operating an aircraft, it needs to be in optimal condition so that you and any passengers are safe. Regular maintenance for aircraft is essential, and helicopter vibration analysis is a key component in ensuring that you stay safe while in the air. Untangle the mystery of vibration in aircraft by finding out…
A pilot has to know the rules and regulations set out by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before they fly their aircraft. These guidelines for routine maintenance vary greatly depending on if the pilot must follow Visual Flight Rules (VFR) or Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), so it is always best for any pilot to read…
Aviation maintenance technicians have a fulfilling job, but it’s far more than a day in the garage. With so many advancements in aviation technology and systems, the people who maintain the aircraft have a pretty in-depth job. There are many things about aviation maintenance technicians that you may not have known, just like you may…
Efficient aircraft maintenance is an integral aspect of owning any sized fleet, whether it’s one or 50. Dynamic propeller balance, vibration analysis, bearing vibration, and sky condition tolerance are just a few key aspects of proper routine maintenance. With roughly 131,500 service technicians and aircraft mechanics employed in the United States in 2017, there isn’t…
Aviation has gone through incredible changes since its conception. What started as possible flight has turned into regular use commercial and private aviation. What’s more, those advancements that have propelled the aviation world thus far will continue to do so in the future. During last year’s Paris Air Show, there were a few reveals that could indicate what…
Aviation is a large industry that started only a short time ago on the beaches of North Carolina. Since then, new and astonishing advancements have been made in a very short period of time. In just over a century, human flight has gone from impossible fantasy to a ubiquitous part of modern life. However, while…
A small group of flight line mechanics who work at the Boeing Dreamliner plant in North Charleston, South Carolina have recently voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Roughly 131,500 aircraft service technicians and mechanics held jobs in the U.S. in 2017, many of whom work for Boeing. Even though the…
Personal flying can be an enjoyable hobby, there were roughly 224,475 active general aircraft in the U.S. in 2011 alone. With the latest electronic flight-aids and navigation system, it can be compelling to use aviation apps for personal flight use. While these applications can be extremely effective and widely usable, they offer more than what…
When it comes to airworthiness, there is a distinct connection to flight safety, although it can be somewhat complicated. When a defect is present in the aircraft, it significantly affects airworthiness and can cause the craft to fail to meet the required conditions for safe operation. If left uncorrected defects can cause major accidents. Sometimes,…
Vibration in aircraft can cause significant damage. Depending on the severity of the vibration, finding its source and correcting it should be of the utmost importance of both pilots and mechanics. In most situations, an imbalanced propeller is the reason for vibration and can be quickly resolved with a dynamic propeller balance. When the propeller…
Your aircraft propeller is essential to the function of the entire aircraft, and proper maintenance will ensure it remains as such. Part of that maintenance is dynamic propeller balancing. A dynamic propeller balance will not only increase your plane’s performance and reduce vibrations, but it will add to your engine’s longevity. There are, however, common…
We will be displaying the Model 1015 and Cobra II analyzers, so stop by and see us at Booth B-014 for Sun N’ Fun 2018!
Service Pack 4 – New Firmware Available for Viper II and Cobra II Analyzers As part of our continual quality improvement or our products, ACES Systems just released Service Pack 4 for all Viper II and Cobra II analyzers. This service pack will include new features, improved features, and software fixes from the previous version…
ACES Systems welcomes John Kandel and Josh Shively to the Product Support team ACES Systems recently welcomed both John Kandel and Josh Shively aboard the aviation product support team in Knoxville. Their primary duties are providing product support, technical assistance, and training for ACES Systems customers. John…
Our Engineers Looked at the Regulations to Find Out Some people enjoy reading the Code of Federal Regulations to find out whether they can fly with Aces equipment aboard commercial airlines flights. Â Most of us, however, do not. So we got our Engineers to take a look at the “Hazardous Materials Table, Special Provisions, Hazardous…
Dear ACES Customer, You may have heard that ACES Systems recently dissolved our relationship with our sales representative, Aerotecs, located in Belgium. As a benefit to our customers, Aerotecs was also an authorized service center that handled repairs and calibrations for products like the Model 2020HR, Model 4040, Model 1725B, Viper II, and Cobra II…
Conducting Vibration Spectrum Surveys is easy Now I don’t make a lot of pies, but my grandma would say conducting a Vibration Spectrum Survey is just that simple. Let’s see what she means by that. To get this job started using the Viper II analyzer, it all begins with the power button. Yep. Turn that box on and feel the power. Now use the…
Balancing in a breeze can be challenging! Here are a few wind guidelines for dynamic propeller balancing your propeller in a breeze while using the ACES Systems ProBalancer Sport, ProBalancer, Cobra II or Viper II analyzers. Wind speed should be limited to 20 MPH (17 Knots) with a gust factor limited to 5 to 7 MPH…
 You’ve noticed there are some vibrations in your aircraft, and it’s time to balance your prop.  We’ve put together a checklist for you to use. Basic Balancing Procedure Insure all Airworthiness Directives have been accomplished for the aircraft you are balancing. You should inspect the Propeller assembly for nicks, dents, cracks, etc. (FAA Advisory Circular 20-37E should…
We offer a free Dynamic Propeller Balance course which leads to an ACES Systems Certificate of completion that may be applied to the FAA AMT Awards Program. Â After reading the following materials, complete the online test to automatically receive your certificate. #1: Â READ THE TRAINING MATERIALS Â Using the Model 2020 Probalancer Analyzer – Fixed…
Revolutionary Trim Balance Process Saves Time, Yields Better Results ABSTRACT: The technique of Transient Balance saves money by reducing the overall duration of the fan balance process. Just recently available to the flight line incorporated in a battery-operated analyzer, the method reduces technician time, engine run time, and customer returns and complaints for recurring noise…
This month we look into the different types of cables and connectors used in vibration analysis. When conducting vibration analysis in aviation maintenance using any of the ACES Systems analyzers such as the Cobra II and the Viper II, the weakest link in the chain is in the cables and connectors.  Find out why and what…
 Exchange your 1700 series, 2020 or 4040 analyzer for the next generation technology today! For a limited time, we are offering current customers an opportunity to exchange their old analyzers for the newest generation of ACES Systems vibration analysis equipment.  Contact our sales team today to learn how you can get a Viper II analyzer…
You may have seen us in Exhibit Hangar B (Bendix King) at AirVenture for the last few years, but this year we’ve moved to Hangar A (Air Spruce Specialty Co.), and our sales team can’t wait to meet you. Â Ask them about our Viper II trade-in program. Â Or maybe ask them about our next generation…
Learn more about our latest feature, Transient Balance Continuing with our Viper II Two-Minute Tip series, we’re sharing a video that explains how to conduct a transient balance job using the Viper II analyzer. Â Instead of trying to hit speed targets and wait for the analyzer to collect data, the Viper II’s transient balance feature…
We take a closer look at how vibration and rotation is measured As we learned in the previous Fundamentals Series post, titled “What is Vibration?”, vibration occurs when spinning objects become unbalanced and a lopsided weight causes a wobble in that rotation. This video is designed to explore the speed-sensing and vibration-sensing devices that record…
Dear Valued Customer, In order to keep your costs consistent and predictable, ACES Systems has long had a policy of “standard pricing” with regard to the amount we charge for the calibration of one of our balance kits. This letter is intended to clarify the pricing model for recalibration of our standard kits. Typically, the…
Smoky Mountain Air Show highlights Aeroshell, Blue Angels ACES Systems has Proudly Sponsored Aeroshell Aerobatics for More Than 10 Years! Learn More
Going back to the basics to answer one of the main questions:  What is Aviation Vibration? Wherever there are spinning parts, there’s going to be vibration. And in aviation, there are lots of spinning parts: propellers, gearboxes, rotors, and crankshafts. But what is vibration? How do we measure it? When is it bad? What happens…
The ProBalancer Sport uses 4 AA size batteries. Any AA battery may be used with the Model 1015 ProBalancer Sport. Battery life may vary between brands and types of AA batteries. For the best results, ACES Systems recommends using rechargeable 1.2V NiMH batteries with a 2700 mAh charge. Ensure the batteries are properly installed, with…
My analyzer is having trouble getting a tachometer reading Possible causes & solutions #1: Â Cables may be disconnected or damaged Your balancer may not be receiving signals from the tachometer because the cables are damaged or disconnected. Â Check your cables to make sure they are properly connected and are not damaged. #2 Damaged or missing…
Launching a future in aviation maintenance Young people face significant challenges finding their career paths in the new economy. The reality of having to choose between money and passion is real for some of those young people. What if you could have both? Our ACES Systems team recently stumbled upon a bright young person contemplating such…
ACES Systems strikes again, releases next generation Cobra II analyzer ACES Systems is proud to introduce a new analyzer to its legendary balancing equipment line – the COBRA II. This new product promises to increase job efficiency by providing a larger, high-resolution screen, wireless capabilities and PDF reporting solutions. In August of 2015, ACES conducted…
ACES Systems welcomes Stephen Boyer to support, training team ACES Systems recently welcomed Stephen Boyer aboard the aviation maintenance support team in San Diego. His primary duties as Field Support Engineer will be to provide customer service and training to the aviation division with a special focus on working with military applications. He previously retired…
US Navy’s ACU-4 Maintenance Crew Trains for Propeller/Fan Balancing US Navy sailors assigned to Assault Craft Unit 4 at the Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Virginia Beach, Virginia, recently completed the ACES Systems/Dynamic Instruments ATABS LCAC balance and vibration analysis training program. The Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) fleet is a small and unique…
When Jules Bernard was 13 years old his brother paid $1.50 for a ride in a Waco Model 10 Biplane. Â The experience caused Jules to launch a passionate career as an aircraft mechanic. Â He served in WWII and during his career worked on hundreds of different types of aircraft. Just before his 94th birthday, Jules…
Things may not be what they seem…
Given’r all she’s got!
The ACES Systems Team is in Las Vegas for NBAA 2015. Â Stop by our booth at C6922 to learn more about how Transient Balance can save you money by reducing the number of runs it takes to complete a turbine balance job. We are also drawing to give away a GoPro video camera system. Ron…
We’ve been working hard these past few months to completely redesign our website making it more useful and relevant to aviation maintenance professionals worldwide. While it’s almost certain we will have a kink or two to work out in the next couple of weeks, we hope your website experience is simpler and much more useful….
 ↓  Listen here Paul Dye, the longest-serving Flight Director in NASA’s human spaceflight program and commercial pilot with more than 4,500 hours, knows a few things about risk. And he’s more than happy to share what he knows. Recently he shared risk management tips with members of Experimental Aviation Association Chapter…