What does PTU stand for in aviation?

The abbreviation PTU stands for Power Transfer Unit, which is a critical component in aviation systems, particularly in aircraft with multiple power sources. The primary function of a Power Transfer Unit is to transfer hydraulic power between systems, typically facilitating the operation of flight control surfaces, landing gear, and other essential aircraft components. When one hydraulic system's pressure drops, the PTU can help maintain necessary pressure by transferring power from another hydraulic system, ensuring reliability and safety during flight operations.

In aviation, it's crucial to maintain the efficiency of hydraulic systems, and the PTU plays a significant role in redundancy and power management, essential for dealing with potential failure scenarios. The understanding of PTUs is vital for pilots and maintenance personnel alike, ensuring they can effectively manage and troubleshoot hydraulic systems onboard an aircraft.