FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

What area does the augmenter system create in order to facilitate cooling of the engine?

1. A high pressure area at the front of the cowling

2. A low pressure area at the lower rear of the cowling

3. A neutral pressure area around the engine

4. An exhaust pressure area

The correct answer is: A low pressure area at the lower rear of the cowling

The augmenter system is designed to enhance the cooling of an engine by creating a low pressure area at the lower rear of the cowling. This low pressure helps to draw cool air into the engine compartment, promoting airflow and cooling over the engine components. The system works by utilizing the exhaust gases from the engine. As these gases exit, they create a venturi effect that decreases the pressure in the vicinity, thus enabling a steady flow of cooler atmospheric air to be pulled into the engine bay. This process is particularly important in maintaining optimal engine temperatures, especially during operations where airflow may be restricted, such as in climb or during low-speed conditions. While other areas such as high pressure zones or neutral pressure areas may influence airflow, they do not specifically facilitate cooling in the same effective manner as the low pressure area created by the augmenter system. The focus on creating a low pressure environment is what makes this system efficient in drawing in the necessary cool air for engine cooling.