What component provides engine limit protection in a FADEC system?

In a FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system, the component responsible for providing engine limit protection is the electronic control unit. This unit is a crucial part of the digital control system, which monitors various parameters of the engine and performs real-time adjustments to maintain optimal performance, efficiency, and safety.

The electronic control unit uses inputs from numerous sensors to assess engine conditions and can apply limits to prevent the engine from operating outside of safe parameters. This includes monitoring parameters such as temperature, pressure, and RPM, and taking action to adjust fuel flow and other variables to avoid damage or failure.

By managing these limits effectively, the electronic control unit ensures that the engine operates within its designed envelope, enhancing reliability and safety during operation. This level of control and protection is a distinct benefit of FADEC systems compared to older control mechanisms. Other components, such as hydro-mechanical fuel controls or fuel metering valves, do play their roles in the fuel delivery process, but they do not provide the comprehensive engine limit protection that the electronic control unit does.