Response: To reduce the 24 hour cure time CFM recommends the following procedure:
1) Concurrent with performance of AMM task as RTV 106 is applied to bushing, apply equal thickness RTV 106 bead to tongue depressor and lay on high pressure compressor case in close proximity to installed bushing. Position quartz lamps under C-duct, directed at VSV lever arm with repaired bushing, positioned 1 to 3 feet away from replaced bushing. Ensure tongue depressor with RTV 106 is in same vicinity of repair bushing.
a) Following two (2) hours of cure, use a razor knife with tongue depressor to cut through RTV 106 at one end of the bead. If the RTV 106 is cured through to the center it will not be tacky to the touch. If the bead on tongue depressor is cured through to center of cut area, complete the repair and proceed to return aircraft to its usual condition.
b) If the bead on tongue depressor is NOT cured through to center of cut area, continue to cure aided by quartz lamps an additional 2 hours, then repeat the evaluation per (a) above.
c) Continue evaluation of the RTV 106 as noted in (a) and (b) above for up to 24 hours since RTV 106 application. After 24 hours since RTV 106 application it is permissible to complete the repair and proceed to return aircraft to its usual condition.
Note: CFM does not have additional guidance on how the variables accelerate the cure time, i.e. lamp wattage or distance. The TDS for RTV 106 (manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials) states “Higher temperatures and humidity will accelerate the cure process. Lower temperature and low humidity will slow the cure rate.” This is why a ‘test specimen’ approach is recommended.
