Primary finding
Probable cause
A fractured compressor assembly.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
A mcdonnell DOUGLAS aircraft company dc 10 series 10 aircraft experienced an uncontained failure of the number 1 engine while in the cruise climb. The engine had sustained an uncontained failure of the 14th through 16th stage compressor spool. About 11 years before the incident, the spool was damaged beyond maintenance manual limits. The damage consisted of a 360 degree rub on the aft rim surface (surface q) of the 16th stage compressor. The spool was placed in storage for five years and then returned to service after being repaired. Flight profile stresses were analyzed by engine manufacturer. According to the engine manufacturer, peak stresses in the aft rim region or surface q occur at the same time in the flight profile as the uncontained failure.
Source record
Factual narrative
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