GE Aviation began running its third and final eCore demonstrator last month in preparation for application on the Passport business jet engine and the new CFM Leap family, as well as a potential basis for the still orphaned NG34 turbofan development.
Electrical engineering
Three business aircraft manufacturers have selected Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems EmPower dual-use AC/USB outlets for passengers and crew. The dual-use 1295-8-XX outlet provides both a 115-VAC, 60-Hz and a 5-VDC, 2.1-amp USB socket, which can be used simultaneously. The 115 VAC socket accepts plugs from more than 155 countries and features a third ground to the aircraft structure. Internal LEDs make the plugs easy to find in a dark cabin or cockpit, and status lights indicate whether power is available for each socket.
Enhanced performance, greater reliability and reduced operator maintenance costs are the primary selling points behind the “Mercury Mod” starter generator upgrade offered by Naasco Northeastern Corporation. In addition to celebrating the 18-year history of the upgrade, Naasco is sharing news about its upcoming “Mercury Mod-Phase Two” variant at Heli-Expo’13 (Booth No. C3924.)
LMB of Malemort, France, is showcasing a range of its high-performance/high-reliability electric fans, blowers and motors here at Heli-Expo (Booth No. C3504). LMB designs and manufactures both AC (50/60 Hz, 400 Hz and wild frequency) and DC (12-300 VDC) brushless motors used in fixed- and rotor-wing aircraft, as well as in ground military vehicles. The company offers more than 1,000 shelf-qualified products, while its engineering expertise capabilities enable it to quickly design and build these components to meet specific requirements that meet Mil STD 810/461 and RTCA DO-160 standards.
GE Aviation has named Ruag Aviation an authorized service center for its CF34-3 engines, which power the Bombardier Challenger series. Under the terms of the agreement, Ruag Aviation can perform engine line maintenance as well as provide OnPoint and warranty support and facilitate access to both GE parts and technical support. The MRO offers aircraft maintenance, individual cabin designs up to a complete refurbishment of aircraft interiors, in-flight entertainment systems and satcom installations, as well as complete system upgrades.
Newly issued airworthiness directive AD 2013-03-07 for the Hawker 400A was prompted by a report that the cockpit wiring for the 5-volt direct current (DC) system on the aircraft is undersized and does not have adequate circuit protection for the smaller gauge wire. The directive, which is effective as of March 19, requires installation of an in-line fuse in the 5-volt DC system for each of the five instrument lighting control power supplies.
Cleveland, Ohio-based Constant Aviation has named Lance Lajara to the position of large fleet account manager. Lajara has more than 15 years’ experience in the aviation industry and most recently was customer care manager with Honeywell. During his tenure at Honeywell he held numerous roles covering quality, operations, logistics and customer service. “Adding a dedicated account manager who understands the large fleet operator’s expectations and processes will provide the best level of service,” said Stephen Maiden, the MRO’s president.
GE Aviation has acquired Morris Technologies and sister company Rapid Quality Manufacturing, of Cincinnati, Ohio, as part of a planned expansion of engineering and manufacturing capability. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. The two privately held companies specialize in additive manufacturing, an automated process for creating rapid prototypes and end-use production components.
The FAA has issued an Airworthiness Directive for the AgustaWestland A109S requiring the modification of the electrical power distribution system to carry a higher electrical load. It was prompted by an electrical failure that resulted from inadequate functioning of the 35 amperes “Batt Bus” circuit breaker.
The FAA plans to issue Airworthiness Directive FAA-2012-1111 to address wiring issues on the Beechjet 400A. The AD was prompted by a report that the wiring for the five-volt direct-current system is undersized and does not have adequate circuit protection for the smaller-gauge wire. This proposed AD would require installing an in-line fuse in the five-volt DC system for each of the five instrument lighting control power supplies.