EMB ERJ 190/195 ER/LR
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Troubleshooting; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
Climbing through the mid-20s; we received a BLEED 1 LEAK EICAS message. After accomplishing the QRH procedure we leveled at FL 310. Approximately 10-minutes after the first EICAS message; we received a   BLEED-2 LEAK message. The Cabin Altitude began climbing at approximately 500-FPM. We requested and received an immediate descent to 10-thousand. Fortunately the Cabin Altitude did not climb any faster than 500 FPM; and the highest cabin altitude displayed was 10;300 FT. After accomplishing the appropriate QRH procedures; Dispatch and I made the decision to divert to ZZZ1. Maintenance Operations reports that leaks were discovered on both Bleed 1 and 2 Precoolers. The fact that both Bleed Precoolers would fail within minutes of each other may be a random event; but it could also indicate a design or manufacturing defect. This component needs to be re-evaluated from an Engineering standpoint.
Reporter stated a precooler leaking is not unheard of; but for both engines to have precoolers leaking or failing; basically at the same time; requiring an emergency descent due to pressurization loss; is a concern. They were fortunate to be in VFR weather conditions; but if they were in bad weather and had to descend; the situation could have become very serious. These aircraft are flown overwater to various islands and if the aircraft loses both packs; the flight crew has to descend to lower altitudes. The aircraft would most likely not be able to make destination and would have to find a place to land due to higher fuel consumption.Reporter stated after they got a 'chime' and then the BLEED-1 and shortly after; the BLEED-2 LEAK EICAS messages appeared; they descended; but the temperature in the Aft cabin got very warm. As part of their QRH procedures; the Cabin Manual Dump Valve switch was operated to 'Open' the Outflow Valve and allow; he believes; Ram air only to flow into the cabin. Even with the Outflow Valve open; the Aft cabin did not cool down.
Captain reports a BLEED-1 LEAK EICAS message appeared in their ERJ-190 aircraft while climbing through the mid 20s; followed by a BLEED-2 LEAK EICAS message ten minutes later. Flight crew diverted. Maintenance discovered leaks on both Bleed-1 and 2 Precoolers. Captain questions if a design or manufacturing defect exists in precoolers.