GE Aerospace tapped South Africa-based helicopter operator and maintenance provider Henley Air as the launch customer for its Rotor Analysis Diagnostic System Next Generation (RADS-NG).
The RADS-NG—which builds on GE's more than 30 years of reliability as the leading rotor track and balance solution—replaces the RADS-AT (Advanced Technology) and the AVA (Aviation Vibration Analyzer) as the manufacturer’s portable vibration diagnostics solution for vehicles where permanent installation is not practical, or to supplement existing systems.
"The RADS-NG will allow operators the ability to complete their rotor track and balance operations and diagnostics in fewer flights while significantly reducing flight and pilot time and saving fuel," explained Matt Burns, general manager of avionics for GE Aerospace. “Our team developed the system with input from customers, enabling more control over adjustment solutions and providing for future needs.”
GE Aerospace will provide training and support for the RADS-NG, which will be used on Henley Air’s fleet including the Bell 222 UT, 206 and 206L, and 407; Airbus AS365; and Leonardo AW119 MKII.
“The RADS-NG will differentiate Henley Air as a leader in cutting-edge vibration analysis for the region,” said André Coetzee, executive chairman of Henley Air. “The distinct advantage of performing regular, proactive vibration measurements on our mixed fleet of helicopters and integrating such data with GE Aerospace’s development and support structures will provide a real-time benefit in enhancing engine and component life.”