TPE331 Engine Selected For New Epic Escape

Honeywell announced recently its TPE331-10A engine has been selected by Epic Aircraft to power that company's newest turboprop aircraft, the Escape.

In its Epic Escape configuration, Honeywell states its TPE331-10 produces 940SHP (1,000 TSHP) horsepower with best in class fuel consumption, giving the Escape an 1800-nautical mile range and a 360 knot maximum cruise speed -- making it the fastest pressurized single engine turboprop in the world. The TPE331-10 features temperature and torque limiting as well as a single red-line controller with auto start capabilities.

As ANN reported, Epic Aircraft unveiled a concept model of the Escape -- essentially, a 92% scaled-down version of Epic's LT turboprop -- at Lakeland 2007. The planemaker noted at that time the experimental owner-built aircraft would fly faster than even its single-engine Victory jet.

"The TPE331 engine was the obvious choice for this aircraft as it is a high performance engine with outstanding reliability," said John Todd, Vice President, General Aviation, Honeywell Aerospace. "Delivering lower fuel consumption and longer maintenance intervals compared to like engines, the TPE331 also provides the pilot with immediate power response, thanks to its single spool design."

Though arguably not as well known in the turboprop marketplace as the venerable Pratt & Whitney PT6, Honeywell notes its TPE331 engine program has accumulated in excess of 112 million flying hours.

Flight testing on the Escape will begin in early 2008 with production engine deliveries to follow later in the year.

"The single engine turboprop segment is one of the fastest growing segments in aviation today and the TPE331 engine is well suited for these new aircraft," Todd added. 

FMI: www.honeywell.com, www.epicaircraft.com