GEOFF THOMAS
Engine vibration is bad for both passengers and power units, so it's easy to understand why the Meggitt company Vibro-Meter SA announced yesterday at the show that it will supply engine vibration monitoring units (EVMUs) for Dassault's new ultra-long-range executive jet, the Falcon 7X.
It is the second contract for EVMUs awarded to the company by the French aircraft manufacturer. The EVMU is a key predictive maintenance device because its fan trim balance feature contributes to a well-balanced engine, giving passengers a smoother flight.
The Falcon 7X will launch a new era in business jet travel from 2005, flying faster, farther and higher than any Falcon in service today with a non-stop range of 5,700nm (10,500km).
It will be powered by three of Pratt & Whitney Canada's new PW307A engines with a thrust of 6,100lb (27.2kN).
Vibro-Meter's engine vibration monitoring unit will help to predict maintenance requirements, obviating the need for costly unscheduled repairs. Output from the unit is also used to help balance engines, enhancing the comfort of the regular - and increasingly discerning - business traveller.
The Falcon 7X also uses accelerometers offered through PWC from Endevco, an operating business within Meggitt's specialist, high-value electronics division.
Forefront
Vibro-Meter's relationship with Dassault started in 2000 with a first vibration monitoring unit contract for the Falcon 2000 EX, a derivative of the Falcon 2000, featuring PW308C turbofans. Vibro-Meter began shipping EVMUs for the Falcon 2000 EX in 2002. The aircraft was certificated in March this year.
Richard Greaves, managing director of Meggitt Aerospace Systems Division and Vibro-Meter's president comments: "We are excited to be working with Dassault, a company at the forefront of future generation business jet design. The Falcon 7X will be the first business jet to feature fly-by-wire controls and this technology, adapted from Dassault fighter jets, will add performance and safety benefits."
Source: Flight Daily News
