Partners with AeroMech to Certify New Lithium Emergency Power
Unit
Mid-Continent Instruments
introduced their newest battery system, the MD420-1 Emergency Power
Supply at the 2009 NBAA Meeting and Convention on Monday.
The MD420-1 is a 2.5 Amp-hour battery that powers
electronic flight displays, standby instruments or other critical
avionic systems. Honeywell Bendix/King recently named the MD420-1
as the optional battery backup for the company's new KFD840 Primary
Flight Display.
"We are thrilled the MD420-1 is part of Honeywell's KFD840
program," stated Tom Genovese, Director of Sales for Mid-Continent
Instruments. "We have truly taken our emergency power supplies to
the next level, and this is evident when companies such as
Honeywell select our products."
The MD420-1 can be configured for automatic arming and
disarming, which prevents accidental battery discharge and improves
dispatch reliability. The battery system utilizes a
field-replaceable, sealed lead-acid cell module, which has a life
expectancy of three years. The MD420-1 is continuously recharged
using the main aircraft power and can accept either a 14V or 28V
input. A small panel annunciator unit controls test, status and
control functions.
The MD420-1 is TSO-certified and begins shipping November 2009.
List price is $2,485.
In a second announcement, the company said it will be partnering
with AeroMech Incorporated in the certification of the new MD835
Emergency Power Supply. This teams Mid-Continent's cutting-edge
lithium battery with AeroMech's expertise in the development of
avionics STCs, including a number of complex RVSM certifications
for fixed-wing aircraft.
"The MD835 features Lithium Nanophosphate technology, something
never-before used in an emergency power supply. We are excited to
bring this advancement in aviation to the market and feel AeroMech
is well-positioned to assist in its certification," stated Tom
Genovese, Director of Sales for Mid-Continent Instruments.
AeroMech will develop the certification plan and manage all of
the necessary coordination with the FAA to support the unit's
installation requirements. Mid-Continent will conduct RTCA DO-160
environmental testing and DO-311 for Lithium Systems qualification
in order to receive TSO and STC approval, both of which are
expected to be complete by February of next year. The companies are
seeking an Approved Model List (AML) STC, covering a wide range of
Part 23 aircraft. The Beechcraft King Air 200 will be used as the
baseline certification aircraft.
The MD835 is the industry's first emergency power supply
featuring Lithium Nanophosphate technology. This alternative energy
source offers distinct advantages over standard lead-acid designs
including weight, maintenance costs and life expectancy. The MD835
may be used as a direct replacement for older Goodrich PS835
units.