PRECISION AIRMOTIVE has introduced a lightweight electric starter for aircraft piston engines. The Lamar permanent-magnet starter has demonstrated quicker engine starts than conventional starters under most conditions, the Everett, Washing- ton-based company says.
The bulky field windings of a conventional starter motor are replaced with lightweight permanent magnets. The unit weighs about 40% less than existing starters and delivers sufficient torque to start "virtually any" general-aviation piston engine, Precision says.
While conventional starters usually have to be repaired or replaced at least once during the overhaul interval of a piston engine, Precision says, the permanent-magnet starter is designed to last between engine overhauls.
Source: Flight International
