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Method of reworking compressor blade damage

Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice question 13 of 13 on Turbine Engines. ACS element AM.III.B.K4 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA technician is blending allowable damage from an axial-flow compressor blade. How must the re-work be accomplished?

  1. AWith a power-driven buffing wheel over the blade
  2. BBy hand, using stones, files, or emery cloth
  3. CBy welding the damaged edge, then smoothing it
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. By hand, using stones, files, or emery cloth

  • A — incorrect A power tool must not be used to buff the entire area of the blade.
  • B — correct Re-work of compressor blades must be done by hand with stones, files, or emery cloth, and the repaired surface finish must be comparable to that of a new blade.
  • C — incorrect Blade re-work is hand blending that removes a minimum of material, and the handbook separately directs that vanes not be repaired by straightening, brazing, welding, or soldering.

BACKGROUND

Minor damage to axial-flow compressor blades may be repaired if it can be removed without exceeding the limits established by the manufacturer. Whenever possible, stoning and local re-work of the blade should be performed parallel to the length of the blade. All repairs must be well blended so surfaces are smooth, and the surface finish in the repaired area must be comparable to that of a new blade. Repaired blades are then inspected by either magnetic particle or fluorescent penetrant methods to confirm all traces of damage have been removed. No cracks of any extent are tolerated in any area.

STUDY TIP

Tie blade repair to two ideas: hand tools only, and blend parallel to the blade length. If an answer involves heat or a power tool on a compressor blade, treat it as wrong.

KEY POINTS

  • Compressor blade re-work is done by hand with stones, files, or emery cloth.
  • Do not use a power tool to buff the entire blade area.
  • Repaired blades are re-inspected by magnetic particle or fluorescent penetrant methods.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-32B ch10 "Inspection & Cleaning" (Compressor Section)
Practice the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) test →Timed 100-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON TURBINE ENGINES

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-32B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Powerplant, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.