The Emergency Lubrication System (ELS) can continue supplying oil at a reduced rate for how many minutes?

The Emergency Lubrication System (ELS) is designed to maintain oil flow to critical components of the engine in the event of a primary lubrication failure. This system ensures that, even under emergency conditions, vital parts receive lubrication to prevent seizing or failure due to heat and friction.

In this case, the ELS can continue to supply lubrication at a reduced rate for 30 minutes. This duration is crucial as it provides pilots and maintenance crews with a buffer period during which they can assess the situation and take necessary actions, such as executing an emergency landing or managing engine performance.

Choosing a duration less than 30 minutes would not provide sufficient time for response in critical situations, while a period longer than 30 minutes might imply that the system can sustain full lubrication performance, which is not the case; the ELS operates at a reduced capacity to conserve oil reserves. Thus, the specified 30-minute duration reflects a balance between operational safety and system limitations.