PA100 PUREairSystem flown by Mustang Helicopters after completing falling and blowing snow flight test. Pall Corporation Photo
Pall Corporation has announced that the PA100 PUREair engine protection system for Airbus Helicopters’ H125/AS350, and EC130 families of helicopters has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The next generation PA100 PUREair System, co-developed by Pall Aerospace and DART Aerospace, is a totally redesigned, re-engineered, and retested engine air protection system that takes the capabilities of its predecessors to the next level. Featuring Pall’s latest PUREair vortex tube technology, the new system is self-cleaning and virtually maintenance-free, unlike other filtration systems qualified for this aircraft.
The PA100 PUREair system provides the highest level of helicopter engine protection, while offering a two percent gain in engine power over conventional inlet barrier filters and an even greater performance and reliability advantage over legacy sand filter systems allowing for operations with basic performance charts.
The EASA certification joins a list of certifications that includes Canada (TCCA), the United States (FAA), and Brazil (ANAC). The EC130 T2 has also been added to the applicability of the STC with TCCA, FAA and ANAC and EASA expected to closely follow the initial STC.
The PA100 underwent snow trials in Canada in November 2015 to add full clearance for falling and blowing snow operations, which is included in the EASA STC.
“We are extremely pleased to have the EASA STC for the PA100 and have many customers waiting eagerly to adopt the PA100,” said Steve Simpson, director of marketing for Europe. “We are also working closely with Airbus Helicopters to make this available as a first fit option due to its superior performance over legacy sand filter systems.”
The fourth generation PA100 system uses the latest advances in Pall Aerospace technology including 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) optimized system design and innovative nano-material technologies. PUREair vortex systems enhance operations in all weather conditions, including snow, heavy rain, and salt spray.
