Rolls-Royce announces new M250 upgrade kit for Bell 407 and MD600 helicopters
During rigorous engine tests, the VIP upgrade kit reduced fuel burn by 2% while increasing hot/high engine performance by 5% – with no increase in engine weight. The VIP upgrade received certification in late 2011 and will be available to operators in the 1st Quarter of this year.
Greg Fedele, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President, Helicopters, said: “Rolls-Royce leads the way in technology in the light helicopter turbo-shaft industry, and this M250 upgrade is yet another great example. The M250 engine, with reliability gained over 210 Million flight hours, has been continually upgraded and remains the benchmark for the light helicopter industry.”
The upgrade uses advanced technology developed for the Rolls-Royce RR300 and RR500 engines, which include modifications to the engine impeller and diffuser, as well as optimization of the first-stage turbine nozzle. The VIP upgrade kit is simple, low-cost and easily retrofitted at any Rolls-Royce authorised FIRST Network location.
The VIP development programme was executed on time, meeting a commitment to customers. Several 'lead the fleet' operators have already been identified to install the VIP upgrade to begin reaping fuel and power benefits.
