Ardiden 3C/WZ16 engine has successful first run
The Turbomeca- and AVIC Engine-developed Ardiden 3C helicopter engine has completed its first run at the Turbomeca Bordes plant in France. According to the companies the run was successful in confirming the aeromechanical behaviour and performances of the new generation engine.
Known as WZ16 in China, the engine is being developed to meet growing market requirements for the 6 to 8 tons helicopter segment, including the Chinese Avicopter AC352. The engine has been designed to be modular with dual channel FADEC to be as reliable and easy to operate as possible, with low fuel consumption.
The Ardiden 3C / WZ16 engine will now enter the test and certification phases of the development programme. Some preliminary testing of major components has already been performed with positive results.
Olivier Andriès, chairman and CEO, Turbomeca, said: ‘This first run reflects the high quality of our partnership with AVIC Engine and is the first concrete step of a long term and sustainable programme.’
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