What is the significance of compressor case integrity during an overhaul?

• A. Increases engine power.
• B. Maintains air seal and structural integrity; inspect for cracks, distortion, corrosion, oil leaks, and fastener integrity.
• C. Reduces fuel efficiency.
• D. Improves lubrication flow.

Answer: (B)

Maintaining compressor case integrity is about keeping the housing airtight and mechanically sound so the air seal and stage clearances stay correct. If the case has cracks, distortion, corrosion, oil leaks, or fastener issues, air can leak between stages or the rotating assembly can become misaligned. That leads to loss of efficiency, improper pressure ratios, possible surge or stall, and increased vibration or bearing wear. Inspecting for cracks, distortion, corrosion, oil leaks, and fastener integrity directly protects these seals and the structural fit, which is why this focus is essential during an overhaul. The other outcomes listed—increasing power, reducing fuel efficiency, or changing lubrication flow—aren’t direct results of preserving case integrity; they’re broader engine performance factors that rely on multiple systems, whereas case integrity specifically ensures the seal and structural reliability of the compressor housing.