Preliminary analysis on an IVHM approach for prognosis of high-pressure filters for hydraulic Power Control Modules of helicopters

The process of filtration is critical to ensure long operative life to on-board hydraulic equipment, especially in rotating-wing application where the severe vibratory environment lead to accelerated wear of the mechanical components and hence an increased production of debris. Filtration is obtained by mechanically separating the physical contaminants from the hydraulic fluid by means of filters, which hence tend to clog under prolonged usage. Filter replacement has been so far pursued through scheduled maintenance strategy, which however have proven to be rather cost-ineffective. To transition to a Condition-Based Maintenance, new Prognostics and Health Monitoring frameworks need to be developed. The paper deals with the feasibility analysis of such a system based on a high-fidelity simulation environment, rigorous description of the operating conditions and state-of-the-art algorithms.