Eurocopter will offer a choice of powerplants on its in-development X4 helicopter, having confirmed that Turbomeca will supply its new TM800 engine for the programme, in addition to the previously confirmed Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210.
Unlike the P&WC offering, the TM800 will be an all-new 1,100shp (809kW) category turboshaft engine, designed for rotorcraft of 4-6t, says Turbomeca. It will use advanced materials and enhanced internals - including new single stage turbines - to optimise the powerplant's performance.
A Turbomeca statement says: "The advantage for the customer is [a] reduction of fuel consumption and associated environmental footprint, together with [a] reduction in maintenance costs. In parallel, the reduced fuel consumption will enhance the payload and range of the helicopter's missions."
The TM800 draws on technologies already shown on the company's Tech800 full-scale engine core demonstrator. Turbomeca is aiming for certification and entry into service of the powerplant in 2017, in-line with the X4's development schedule.
Eurocopter confirmed in April that the 1,000shp PW210 would be offered on the next-generation helicopter.
Source: Flight International
