This is a process explanation for the Quick Start Auxiliary Power Unit System (QSAS) on the KC-135R Aircraft. These are two separate explanations. The first explanation of the QSAS is directed towards a general audience, while the second explanation is aimed towards an audience with a better understanding. These documents showcase my ability to create content with the same meaning, but directed towards different audiences.

1. Process Explanation of the Quick Start Auxiliary Power Unit System on the KC-135R Aircraft
Richard Bogdan
TECM 4700.001: Writing in the Sciences
October 9, 2015

2. 1
The Quick Start Auxiliary Power Unit System on the KC-135R Aircraft
(general audience)
Introduction
Defining the Quick Start Auxiliary Power Unit System
In the early 1980’s, the United States Air Force modified their KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft by
installing two quick start auxiliary power unit systems (QSAS). These QSAS act as external
generators which provide electrical and hydraulic power throughout the aircraft. The QSAS was
installed in order to provide quick and reliable power to the aircraft in times of need or for
emergencies. This document describes in general terms, the process of operating the QSAS on
the KC-135R Stratotanker. The only required material for accomplishing this task is the
instructions found in technical order (T.O.) 1C-135(K)R-2-16JG-2. There are three major stages
in operating the QSAS. These stages include: preliminary checks, turning on the QSAS, and
shutting off the QSAS.
Step-by-StepDescription
1. Preliminary Checks
Operation of the QSAS begins with preliminary and safety checks to prevent harm to both the
aircraft and personnel. Carefully read the warning and caution sections of
T.O. 1C-135(K)R-2-16JG-2 to confirm that it is safe to start the QSAS.
2. Start the QSAS
The second step of operating the QSAS is turning it on by positioning the START/STOP switch
into the START position. This will increase the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) to 1200°F which
will activate the RDY (ready) light allowing you to use electric and hydraulic power throughout
the aircraft.
3. Stop the QSAS
After you are finished using the QSAS, position the START/STOP switch to STOP. This will cause
the QSAS to go into cooldown mode for thirty seconds before shutting off.
Conclusion
This document has reviewed the normal operations of the QSAS found on the KC-135R
Stratotanker. The stages went over in this document include the preliminary safety checks, the
operation of the QSAS, and the shutdown of the QSAS.

3. 2
The Quick Start Auxiliary Power Unit System on the KC-135R Aircraft
(upper-level audience)
Introduction
In the early 1980’s, the United States Air Force modified their KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft by
installing two quick start auxiliary power unit systems (QSAS). These QSAS act as generators
which provide electrical and hydraulic power throughout the aircraft, eliminating the need for
ground based power from an external source. The QSAS was installed in order to provide quick
and reliable power to the aircraft in times of urgency (i.e. quick takeoffs when the aircraft
needs to be in flight within 30 minutes) or for emergencies (if an engine fails mid-flight.)
This document describes the process of operating the QSAS on the KC-135R Stratotanker. The
only required material for accomplishing this task is the instructions found in technical order
(T.O.) 1C-135(K)R-2-16JG-2. There are three major stages in operating the QSAS. These stages
include: preliminary checks, turning on the QSAS, and shutting off the QSAS.
Step-by-StepDescription
1. Preliminary Checks
Operation of the QSAS begins with preliminary and safety checks to prevent harm to both the
aircraft and personnel. Carefully read the warning and caution sections of
T.O. 1C-135(K)R-2-16JG-2 to confirm that it is safe to start the QSAS. Failure in doing so could
cause serious injury, death, or up to millions of dollars in damages to both the QSAS and
aircraft.
2. Start the QSAS
The second step of operating the QSAS is turning it on by positioning the START/STOP switch
into the START position. This will open both of the QSAS exhaust doors that lead outside of the
aircraft allowing exhaust and excess fuel to be dumped outside of the aircraft. Exhaust gas
temperature (EGT) will rapidly increase to 800°F where it will remain that temperature for
about a minute before increasing and stabilizing at 1200°F. When the QSAS EGT reaches 1200°F
it will activate the RDY (ready) light on the console allowing you to turn on the generator switch
which will provide electric and hydraulic power throughout the aircraft.
Note: In temperatures 40°F or below, a frozen door check must be performed in order to
ensure that both exhaust doors of the QSAS can be opened. This check requires the aircraft
personnel to carefully rotate the QSAS door actuator by hand, making sure not to cause any
damage to the device.

4. 3
3. Stop the QSAS
After you are finished using the QSAS, the generator switch will be placed to OFF and the
START/STOP switch will be placed in the STOP position. This will cause the QSAS to go into
cooldown mode for approximately thirty seconds as engine rpm begins to drop. After the thirty
second cooldown period, the QSAS doors will close, ensuring that the QSAS has successfully
shut down.
Note: There is a QSAS emergency stop, but should only be used when the QSAS is on fire. This
will immediately cutoff fuel from being pumped into the QSAS and will set off the two fire
bottles located above each QSAS. Setting off the fire bottles in non-emergency situations will
cause severe damage to the QSAS, requiring a full replacement of all components.
Conclusion
This document has reviewed the normal operations of the QSAS found on the KC-135R
Stratotanker. The stages went over in this document include the preliminary safety checks, the
operation of the QSAS, and the shutdown of the QSAS. The Quick Start Auxiliary Power Unit
System is an important component of the KC-135R aircraft. It allows all four engines to be
started without the need of an external power source, provides electrical power for lights and
radio communications, and handles all components that function hydraulically like rudders,
brakes and the refueling pump. The KC-135R can still be operated in emergency situations
without both of its QSAS, however, it is not recommended. That is why the operational
knowledge of the QSAS is necessary for all aircraft mechanics on the KC-135R and not just jet
engine specialists.