Air Conditioning

Air conditioning includes heating, cooling, ventilation, moisture/contaminant control, temperature control, distribution, and cabin pressure control. Common systems are the air conditioning system (ACS) and the cabin pressure control system (CPCS).

Air cycle refrigeration is the predominant means of air conditioning for commercial and military aircraft of all types. The aircraft air cycle air conditioning system utilizes high-pressure air extracted from the gas turbine engine compressor or by other means, such as electrically driven compressor, to satisfy the aircraft ventilation, heating, cooling and pressurization requirements. A water separator removes moisture condensed during the refrigeration process. The refrigerated fresh air is mixed with re-circulated air, temperature controlled and delivered to the aircraft compartments to cool or heat, pressurize and ventilate these areas with conditioned air.

The cabin pressure control system includes the outflow valves, controller, selector panel and positive and negative pressure relief valves. This system controls cabin pressure by modulating the airflow discharged from the pressurized cabin through one or more cabin outflow valves.

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