Heat shield placement on the platform must include protection on which surfaces?

• A. Front only
• B. Bottom only
• C. Front, sides and bottom
• D. Top only

Answer: (C)

Heat protection for a platform must cover surfaces that are most likely to be exposed to radiant heat and heat transfer during operation. The front is in the direct line of the exhaust plume and radiant heat, so shielding there is essential. The sides can receive heat and hot debris carried by the airflow, so protecting them prevents damage to adjacent equipment and personnel. The bottom is important because heat can transfer upward from the surface or from hot components beneath the platform, risking ignition or damage to components mounted below. The top isn’t typically exposed to the main heat source in normal use, so shielding there isn’t required. That combination—front, sides and bottom—ensures comprehensive protection.