Story ID: 
Microturbo to test e-APU by year-end
By: Charles Alcock
Caption: Microturbo (Booth No.
Word Count: 216
Microturbo (Booth No. 4287) is on track to perform a first test run of its so-called e-APU family of auxiliary power units for business jets by the end of the year. The company intends to achieve certification in 2011, having recently reached an agreement with the Triumph group to provide a gear box for the APUs, which are intended to deliver the additional electrical power required by new business aircraft.
The French company, which is part of the Safran group, has already developed APUs for Dassault’s Falcon jets, as well as for several military aircraft and various helicopters. The e-APU series will deliver up to 150 shp and promises low emissions and a noise signature below 70 dB. It will be able to start at up 41,000 feet and can operate up to 51,000 feet.
Microturbo is working with several manufacturers to define precise electrical and mechanical requirements for specific applications. The critical design review was completed in February.
The firm also makes small turbojet engines for unmanned aerial vehicles. Its new TR-3 powerplant is the smallest yet, weighing just under nine pounds. Series production of this engine is due to begin next year. It has a high thrust-to-weight ratio and will be able to operate at up to 30,000 feet, the company said.