Downloads
MD Helicopters Product Information.pdf
ICA OH6.pdf
RFMS OH6.pdf
FAA form 337.pdf
Benefits
The FDC/aerofilter inlet barrier filter system provides smoothly ducted airflow with minimal pressure losses, and 99.28% capture efficiency yielding the following results:
Lowered Operating Temperatures (TOT, T4)
Decreased Fuel Burn
Increased Available Power
Elimination of Compressor/Turbine Blade Erosion
Prevention Centrifugal Coating of Internal Shafts and Resulting Imbalance
Decreased Wear in Oil Path/Bearings
Protection of the Fuel Nozzles, Labyrinth Seals and all Components Impacted by Cooling Airflow
Prevention of Ash Compaction on Turbine Wheels and Resulting Hotspots
Reduction of Corrosion due to Ingestion of Airborne Salt Nuclei Present in Coastal Operations
Prevention of FOD when the Helicopter is parked with the Inlet Covers Removed
Description
FDC/aerofilter has engineered a high efficiency, low restriction engine inlet barrier filtration system with a low inlet pressure warning system and pilot selectable alternate air door. The element is washable/cleanable and has a capture efficiency of 99.28% on SAE Coarse test dust. The filter media, comprised of a blended fabric pleated between two layers of epoxy coated wire cloth, is used to suspend an oil based tacking agent to trap and hold airborne particles. In the rare event that blockage occurs, the pilot is alerted via a low inlet pressure annunciator light, and can bypass the filter by opening the alternate air door, via a 28 volt linear actuator. All components, hardware and materials are manufactured to military standards and specifications as well as PMA/FAA standards.
Operational Characteristics Comparison
Many OH6 series aircraft have only the factory standard large mesh FOD screen capable of only stopping particles larger than 1/4 inch. An inertial particle separator option is also available. Although somewhat effective in removing larger particles when dust levels are relatively low, any particle separator's ability to filter medium to small particles of sand and dust is marginal. Secondly, the air is forced to enter dozens of swirl tubes resulting in restricted airflow and decreased inlet pressure. Bleed air is used to drive particle ejectors significantly adding to the power loss. Because these fixed losses result in higher operating temperatures and increased fuel consumption, shorter engine life and higher operating costs result. Premature engine component wear/erosion adds an exponential factor to these losses and the wear/power loss cycle feeds itself.
Installation
The FDC/aerofilter is a bolt-on installation and provides complete protection for the engine. The element is easily removable for routine cleaning and inspection without lifting the cowling. Depending on actual environmental conditions has a service life of between 1000 and 1500 hours. With 15 - 20°C reduction in TOT (particle separator/mist eliminator removed), the benefits add up quickly.
Specifications
OH6 Part Number: 1500EFS
System Weight: 12.2 lbs.
Applications
The FDC/aerofilter was selected by the US Border Patrol to resolve their costly impeller erosion problems and optimize mission readiness on the southern border. The decision was easy. Experienced gained in prior years (FDC/aerofilter equipped OH6 fleet) showed total elimination of erosion and FOD, yielding engine component life extension beyond the imagination of Rolls Royce. Coastal operators will also notice a significant reduction in salt build up and related corrosion.
Typically delivered with an inertial particle separator, many OH6 series aircraft have only a large mesh FOD screen capable of stopping objects larger than 1/4 inch. Particle separators, while somewhat effective for larger particles such as sand and grass, are historically ineffective on fine sand and dust.
The FDC/aerofilter is a bolt-on installation. 99.3% filtration efficiency prevents any damage from real world dust and debris. With 15 - 20°C reduction in TOT (particle separator/mist eliminator removed), the benefits add up quickly.
With hundreds of thousands of flight hours on MD Helicopter aircraft, FDC/aerofilter is the #1 inlet barrier filter solution for operators from the US Border Patrol and municipal law enforcement to single ship owners worldwide. |
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