StandardAero has introduced a new custom solution for operators of Rolls-Royce M250-C47 engines to improve starting performance by lowering starting temperatures on engines that are currently experiencing warm starting conditions.

The solution, a custom overhauled Hydromechanical Unit (HMU), was designed by StandardAero engineers through continuous improvement efforts to optimize the performance of M250-C47 engines.

“Our industry leading experience has revealed that some M250 Series IV FADEC engine operators flying in hot and/or high conditions are experiencing elevated starting temperatures. This causes operators to resort to alternate starting procedures,” said Manny Atwal, Vice President of StandardAero Helicopters business unit. “StandardAero engineers have determined the root cause of elevated start temperatures and have developed new inspection, build and test procedures that help identify and reduce engine starting temperatures and prevent starting problems.”

The custom overhauled HMU solution is currently in use on more than 20 helicopters. Engine start data provided by these operators has confirmed that average start temperatures range between 725°C and 735°C. StandardAero’s enhanced HMU has provided start temperature reductions of more than 120°C on several HMUs with a history of warm starting problems.

“We’re pleased to make progress with our HMU technology and look forward to increasing reliability and performance for our customers,” Atwal added.

Bolsters Rolls-Royce M250 and RR300 engine rental pool

In further news, StandardAero has reached an agreement with Rolls-Royce to purchase additional helicopter engines to bolster its current rental pool to more than $10M in assets with 25 engines and over 70 modules.

These rental engines provide operators with instantly available powerplants to minimize aircraft down time and maximize flight mission performance and availability.

Over the past year, StandardAero has purchased additional Rolls-Royce M250-C47B and RR300 engines from Rolls-Royce to service Bell 407 and Robinson R66 operators. "These continuing investments will help us to more effectively serve our customers rental and leasing requirements,” said Brian Hughes, Sales Director for StandardAero's Helicopter business unit.

StandardAero currently owns the world's largest lease and exchange pool of M250 engines and serves customers worldwide through six authorized overhaul facilities. The company brings more than 45 years experience providing repair and overhaul services to the helicopter marketplace. The company offers turbine, compressor, gearbox and full engine and accessory repair and overhaul services on all variants of the M250 engine as well as for the RR300, through its OEM authorizations with Rolls-Royce.

“At StandardAero, we take pride in quality workmanship, personal service and strong communications with our customers,” added Manny Atwal. "We have made significant investments in our rental pool because we believe in providing our customers with world’s best service and flexible solutions.”