How are the flaps actuated?

How are the flaps actuated?

• A. Hydraulically
• B. Electrically using an electric motor and jack screws
• C. Pneumatically
• D. Manually

Answer: (B)

Flap movement is accomplished with an electric actuator system that uses an electric motor connected to a jack screw. The motor’s rotation drives the screw, and a nut attached to the flap carriage travels along the screw, converting rotary motion into precise linear extension to deflect the flap. This setup provides accurate, repeatable positioning and allows the flight control system to sequence and synchronize flap deflections automatically. Advantages include eliminating hydraulic components (pumps, lines, leaks and fluid maintenance), reducing weight, and offering reliable, redundant electric control. Manual actuation would be impractical due to the large forces involved, while hydraulic or pneumatic systems require complex plumbing and power sources, making electric motor and jack screws the preferred method for this configuration.

Flap movement is accomplished with an electric actuator system that uses an electric motor connected to a jack screw. The motor’s rotation drives the screw, and a nut attached to the flap carriage travels along the screw, converting rotary motion into precise linear extension to deflect the flap. This setup provides accurate, repeatable positioning and allows the flight control system to sequence and synchronize flap deflections automatically.

Advantages include eliminating hydraulic components (pumps, lines, leaks and fluid maintenance), reducing weight, and offering reliable, redundant electric control. Manual actuation would be impractical due to the large forces involved, while hydraulic or pneumatic systems require complex plumbing and power sources, making electric motor and jack screws the preferred method for this configuration.