Honeywell is demonstrating a compact auxiliary power unit (APU) to manufacturers of small business jet aircraft and helicopters. The 50hp (37kW) RE50 will weigh around 45kg (100lb) installed and generate 4kW of variable-frequency electric power.
"The RE50 is running now," says Ron Rich, director, advanced technology development, Honeywell Engine, Systems & Services. The small, simple APU is gearless and oilless, using air bearings and a direct-drive starter/generator. "It's a two-wheel machine," he says.
The RE50 is being aimed at new and retrofit applications too small for the company's RE100 APU, which is installed in aircraft like the Bombardier Learjet 45.
Source: Flight International
