The Arriel 2S2, with a take-off power of 923 shp, has been certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification by U.S. authorities is forecast for mid-December.
The Arriel 2S2 will power the Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter. The first production engines at the certification standard are scheduled for delivery in early in 2006. One hundred of engines should be delivered end 2006.
The Arriel 2S2 program was launched in 2002. On December 16, 2003 the first flight of a prototype aircraft with the Arriel 2S2 confirmed the excellent behavior of the engine.
The Arriel 2S2 turbo-engine delivers an extra 9 percent of power for the equivalent fuel specific consumption at take-off compared with its predecessor, the Arriel 2S1. This extra thrust confirms the value of the latest technological advances, such as a new axial compressor which allows an increase in air flow, and a new material for turbine blades which allows an increase in temperature, and hence power.
In addition, the Arriel 2S2 engine is equipped with an integrated dual-channel Define acronym (EECU).
The Arriel 2S1 powers the Sikorsky S-76C+ helicopter, providing18 percent more power than the earlier version Arriel 1 engine.
The 28 versions of the Arriel engine power the new generation helicopters such as the EC 130, EC 145, Ecureuil and Dauphin of Eurocopter, the Sikorsky S-76C+ (and soon the S-76C++) and the KHI BK117 C1 / C2. World leader in its category, the Arriel engine has proved its reliability over numerous dangerous missions such as EMS as well as the transport of personnel, utility transport and off-shore missions.
To date, Turbomeca has produced more than 6,000 Arriel engines, totalling more than 19 million flight hours for more than 1,300 clients in 100 countries.
About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With more than 2 000 customers in over 140 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 14 sites, 3 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 32 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrnes-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units. For more information, please visit our Web sites: www.turbomeca.com and www.safran-group.com.
