Difference between Component & Serialized Component in Aviation Industry?

Question

This one is for all the Aviation experts out there. Whats the difference between a component and a serialized(or Serial) component in reference to aircraft maintenance industry? Are they same ,i.e.is a serialized component nothing but the same as component with a different(or newly generated) Serial number when it comes for maintenance, than the original one or is a serialized component sub part of the main component.

Answer 1

A serialized component (or rotable) has a serial number to keep track of it and can usually be rebuilt when it is worn out.  Serialized components are generally major components that are life limited in some way (either time, airframe.engine hours, or airframe/engine cycles).  Examples would be an engine, a hydraulic pump, a brake assembly, a spoiler actuator, etc.

Non-serialized components are generally simple, cheap, or single use and do not require a serial number.  However ALL aircraft parts must be traceable to the manufacturer by a lot or batch number.  In the case of some used, non serialized components you can use the previous aircraft installation as certification followed by a visual check for fit, form, and function.  Examples of these are: windows, various structural fittings, floorboards, etc.

Then there are consumables which only require traceability for each package or set and they are generally one use items.  Like rivets, screws, bolts, o-rings, gaskets, cotterpins, etc.

Answer 2

Generally serialized components are a component that can be overhauled or rebuilt. Standard components would be expendable items like fasteners and seat covers.

Serialized components are controlled parts that must have a paperwork trail follow their movement.  This way there is documentation as to who worked on a particular engine or fuel pump, etc.

Answer 3

Goober and Calnickle are both right.  however a serialized component need not be a Rotable.

Rotables certain are serialized, but belong to a Pool of rotables which are exchanged with the customer.  usually the customer owns the equipment and this component is probably expensive and has a problem. one that the customer wants the supplier to either fix completely or replace for free.  The supplier however, cannot afford to fix every part for free, this would require redevelopment (a very expensive p rocess)..  so the supplier creates the pool of spare parts, and exchanges them with the customer for free and fixes the returns.

now on to serialized and non serialized.  Tracking is everything.  The FAA requires serialization of most major equipment, for safety purposes and to track serious failures.

minor components are often serialized by the manufacturer for thier own purposes.  like determine the life expectancy of the components.  That way they can add up the mean time between failure for the individual components and also for the aggregate assemblies and complete equipment.

A classic is the low oil pressure switch......cheap little component to make, but for some reason one of the most likely to fail on engines that have either heat or vibration issues or both......manufacturers serialize this component so they can track thier longevity.....alot like banding birds in the field......