Aerospace Filtration Systems Revises STC on L3/L4s, Adds Bell 206L1/C30 Inlet Barrier Filter Certification

Aerospace Filtration Systems (AFS) has received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for its Inlet Barrier Filter (IBF) system for Bell 206L1/C30 with the ASI conversion. This Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification will enable Bell 206L1/C30 operators to maximize engine protection while enjoying a wide range of performance and cost benefits associated with these unique, high-technology filters.

A key aspect of the STC is a new Flight Manual Supplement (FMS) for L3, L4, and L1/C30 helicopters that will enable operators to carry more useful load under certain conditions. This will give operators more hot and high capability critical for gross weight-sensitive missions.

“More power is good news for any operator, but we think the aerial firefighters will especially appreciate this performance boost,” said Michael Scimone, president of AFS. “It’s all part of the AFS focus on developing products that meet the needs of the user community.” The increased capabilities offered by the system will be important to light utility helicopter operators flying air medical, search and rescue, and airborne law enforcement missions.

The newly certified system is identical to that certified for the Bell 206 L3/L4. It includes a single-filter design with a quick-access door that makes filter replacement fast and easy. Filter maintenance may be performed without the cumbersome job of removing the inlet fairing, something that is not possible with EAPS or other barrier filter systems. The AFS system also incorporates a unique progressive filter maintenance aid that lets operators track filter condition between the service cycle of 300 hours or one year.

AFS designed the Bell 206 L1/C30 IBF system to be fully interchangeable with the Bell 407/206L3/4 configuration. The common configuration between the family of Bell Long Ranger helicopters allows operators to benefit from common parts and service for single-, multiple- and mixed-fleet operators.

AFS systems filter out more than 99 percent of dirt and sand while actually enhancing engine performance, especially when compared to inlet particle separators or less capable filter systems. Operators who equip their helicopters with AFS filter systems gain more useful load, more engine temperature margin, and a greater margin of safety. The major benefits include reduced operating and overhaul costs, and reduced engine operating temperatures for increased engine life.

AFS is the industry leader in the design, development and manufacture of high-performance engine inlet barrier filtration systems for commercial and military propulsion systems. AFS has delivered more than 1,300 systems and 11,000 filters to military and commercial customers worldwide. AFS commercial products for Bell helicopters are distributed by Aeronautical Accessories.