[Wing] [Fwd: RV-List: Crack found in part]

[Rob Prior]

Those of us still building may want to check our parts... This came from 
the RV-List.

-RB4

-------- Original Message --------

Purchasers of part VAF-MU-G from Vans Aircraft are warned that cracks have 
been found in the handle of one item.

It is suggested that, although the part is designed to hold liquids up to 
100C, the part failure may be due to inappropriate use of automated 
cleansing mechanisms where high temperatures and caustic chemicals may have 
damaged the component. Alternatively, the part may have been mishandled and 
consequently overstressed. Vans Aircraft cannot comment further since the 
failed part has not yet been returned to Vans Aircraft for analysis. 
Concerned builders should NOT contact Vans Aircraft regarding this... Vans 
will notify builders if any remedial action is needed.

Builders are cautioned NOT to incorporate the part into an aircraft. It is 
also suggested that the part not be used whilst airborne, and under no 
circumstances should it be used during aerobatics. Given that the part is 
designed to contain hot liquids, builders are warned that failure of the 
part may result in facial burns or other injuries.

Further, an immediate visual inspection of the part should be undertaken. 
The failed part was cracked at the bottom of the handle. Magnafluxing is 
not considered necessary. Vans has stress-tested samples to 150% of the 
design load. Vanz will re-test selected samples to ensure that currently 
supplied parts are still up to standard. It is stressed that there is no 
failure of the ceramic coating of the part, so that there is no danger of 
leakage.

FAA spokesman Loof Lipra declined to comment, saying that this part was 
outside the jurisdiction of the FAA. The NTSB are said to be concerned, but 
since no actual incident has occurred, will not be pursuing the matter.