What is the maximum windshield wiper operation speed?

What is the maximum windshield wiper operation speed?

• A. 200 kt
• B. 210 kt
• C. 230 kt
• D. 250 kt

Answer: (C)

Windscreen wipers are limited by the mechanical and aerodynamic stresses they experience at speed. As you fly faster, the wind pushes harder on the wiper blade and arm, increasing loads on the motor, linkage, and blade-to-glass contact. The aircraft’s limits are set to a speed where the wiper system can operate safely without causing damage or losing proper contact with the windshield. For this aircraft, that approved maximum is 230 knots, so you should not operate the wipers faster than that. Choosing a lower value isn’t incorrect for safe operation, but it isn’t the maximum. A speed like 250 knots would exceed the approved limit and could risk damage or malfunction.

Windscreen wipers are limited by the mechanical and aerodynamic stresses they experience at speed. As you fly faster, the wind pushes harder on the wiper blade and arm, increasing loads on the motor, linkage, and blade-to-glass contact. The aircraft’s limits are set to a speed where the wiper system can operate safely without causing damage or losing proper contact with the windshield. For this aircraft, that approved maximum is 230 knots, so you should not operate the wipers faster than that.

Choosing a lower value isn’t incorrect for safe operation, but it isn’t the maximum. A speed like 250 knots would exceed the approved limit and could risk damage or malfunction.