Mon, Mar 08, 2010
Testing Shows New APU Reduces Fuel Burn By Up To 10
Percent
Honeywell announced Thursday that it has completed the initial
ground tests for the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) on the Airbus A350
XWB aircraft.
"Our HGT1700 APU features technological advances to increase
safety and operability while integrating the APU and air management
systems, giving Airbus a more efficient system," said Justin Ryan,
vice president, Airbus, at Honeywell Aerospace. "This contract
represents a new way of working together. Honeywell involvement
began early in the aircraft design cycle, providing more systems
integration and subcontracts management across a broader set of
equipment than in previous contracts, which delivers efficiencies
to Airbus and benefits to the A350 XWB operator."
The HGT1700 passed its First Engine To Test (FETT) milestone in
October, on schedule.
The HGT1700, at 1700 shaft horsepower (SHP), is the largest APU
Honeywell has ever developed. An APU is a gas-powered turbine
engine that provides bleed air for main engine starting and
pneumatic and electrical power for cockpit and galley systems. The
new APU incorporates proven technology from Honeywell 331-500/-600
APUs, including technologies that have more than 14 million hours
of service. The system's core reliability is proven in a design
with more than 14,000 hours.
Artist's Concept
Unlike predecessor APUs, the HGT1700 features variable speed
during ground operation which reduces fuel burn by up to 10
percent, a new hydraulic bleed valve for improved reliability, an
improved combustor to reduce clogging and improve field durability,
and new materials to reduce weight. The engine weighs less but
provides more power, allowing it a 13 percent power-to-weight
improvement over 331-500/-600 APUs. A starter generator system is
designed into the new APU, saving weight and simplifying design
while providing electrical power for the aircraft's system at
altitudes of up to 43,100 feet.
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