The Fenestron shrouded tail rotor, which was pioneered by Eurocopter and has been applied on five of its helicopter products, has been further improved and optimized for its newest application on the EC145 T2 that was unveiled this week at Heli-Expo 2011.

The EC145 T2’s new Fenestron is the largest ever used on a Eurocopter helicopter, with a diameter of 1.15 meters. Overall advantages of the Fenestron include significantly higher safety levels on the ground, during landing/takeoff operations in confined areas, and in flight; enhanced anti-torque control efficiency; reduced power demand in forward flight; and lower sound and vibration levels.

For the EC145 T2, Eurocopter developed its largest Fenestron yet, with a diameter of 1.15 meters.  Among the key innovations is Eurocopter’s use of 10 composite blades, each of which is mounted using integrated tension/torsion straps.  This first-ever application of the integrated blade and strap design eliminates blade mount joints on other Fenestrons, removing the opportunity for corrosion build-up, and significantly improving maintenance with the blades’ easy removal and reinstallation.

The EC145 T2’s Fenestron is driven by an all-new lightweight gearbox that has a high operating lifetime, and the helicopter’s tail rotor drive shaft utilizes state-of-the-art ceramic bearing supports with very good corrosion resistance and a longer lifetime.   Another new feature is the EC145 T2 Fenestron’s installation on an all-composite tail boom, which has a damage-tolerant design and includes provisions for easy customizing including the installation of antennas.

Following the EC145 T2’s unveiling at Heli-Expo 2011 this week, the initial launch customers for this new helicopter were announced, including three U.S. operators: Metro Aviation, Lewis Energy Group and Leading Edge.