Mobile Test Facility

Citation

(2004), "Mobile Test Facility", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 76 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2004.12776dad.004

Mobile Test Facility

Mobile Test Facility

Keywords: Helicopters, Engines, Testing

Mobile helicopter engine testing platform – the Mobile Test Facility from engine testing suppliers, IAC Aviation of the UK – recently made its debut at Aerospace Testing EXPO 2004.

The MTF's primary benefit is that it allows engine testing on location in a war theatre, saving valuable time and manpower resources. It is said to be completely self sufficient with on-board power generation and can operate anywhere, anytime.

The MTF was developed for the UKs Ministry of Defence to support the new RTM322 helicopter engine that is entering into service across all British armed forces. Already commissioned at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, the MTF is soon to be rolled out to RNAS.

The MTFs so far supplied support both the Mk100 “Merlin”, Mk100, Mk250 and Mk200 “Support” RTM322 engine variants. These engines are utilised in the Royal Navy's and the RAF's versions of the EH101 helicopter. Other RTM322 variants (i.e. Apache and NH90) and/or other turbo-shaft engine types, reportedly can be easily accommodated as can engines such as the T700, T800, Gnome and Gem.

The MTF tests the new engine to flight idle speed with a full load performance option also available. While the first MTF requires ground support equipment, MTFs now have as standard an onboard air starter and high performance running gear.

The MTF's additional features include an air conditioned Acoustic Control Room with full- width bullet-resistant viewing window, while the computerised Data Acquisition System gives the operator access to all engine and facility parameters Black Box Event Logs, and integral Alarm with Automated Engine Shutdown.

For further details, contact: IAC Limited. Tel: +44 (0)1962 873000.