Honeywell is at the show fresh from winning a contract for the supply of upgraded T55-GA-714A gas turbine engines on the US Army's CH-47D Chinook helicopter over the next eight years.
The US Army operates nearly 450 D-Model Chinooks in its worldwide fleet.
The contract is estimated at $1.1 billion if all engine options are exercised and is a key part of the Improved Cargo Helicopter (ICH) manufacturing programme.
Major engine improvements include a full authority digital electronic control, corrosion resistant materials for improved reliability during operation in corrosive environments and thermal barrier coated combustion components for greater fuel efficiency.
Other engine improvements include longer life compressor discs, improved turbine blades, stainless steel compressor case, aluminium inlet housing and starter gearbox, aluminium accessory gearbox, and enhanced engine cooling.
"Our upgraded T55-GA-714A engines deliver a 22% improvement in power, 7% better fuel economy and greater reliability over older T55-L-12 engines," says Mike Redenbaugh, vice-president, propulsion, Honeywell Engines, Systems and Services.
"The T55-GA-714A engine provides the Army with a cost-effective way to improve its existing engines with modern technology while enhancing the mission capability of the Chinook helicopter, with improved weight lift capability in a high and hot environment."
Source: Flight Daily News
