Chip detectors come in two types. Which statement correctly describes the first type?

• A. It uses the accumulation of metal particles to complete a circuit and send a cockpit warning.
• B. It uses the accumulation of metal particles but does not complete a circuit or send a signal.
• C. It filters oil by magnetic separation.
• D. It also collects metal particles but sends no signal; instead this second type is removed and inspected routinely.

Answer: (A)

Chip detectors in aircraft lubrication systems come in two types: an electrical detector and a magnetic detector. The electrical type uses metal particles that accumulate and bridge a gap between two contacts, completing a circuit and sending a cockpit warning when wear is detected. This provides an immediate in-flight alert to potential engine damage. The magnetic type, on the other hand, collects metal particles without closing a circuit or sending a signal; it relies on maintenance to inspect or remove the detector element and assess wear during scheduled checks. It isn’t a filter for the oil. So the statement describing the first type as one that uses accumulated metal to complete a circuit and trigger a cockpit warning correctly captures how that electrical chip detector functions.