Even though heat may be required, and the air-cycling system can provide it quite easily from the engine compressors, the same operating principle can be also used for cooling.
Quote:
Originally Posted by aerohead
I'm given to understand that, they use air as the working fluid because there's available surplus power from the compressor section of the jet-turbines, and if the system were to somehow spring a leak, only 'air' would contaminate the passenger cabin and cockpit.
Some refrigerants are both flammable, explosive, and toxic, especially in confined spaces, like an aircraft.  |
Not to mention it also supplies the pressurization system.