Donaldson Expands FAA Barrier Filter Approval
Donaldson Aerospace & Defense, a division of Donaldson Company, Inc., has obtained Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for the first Inlet Barrier Filter (IBF) system available for the Eurocopter AS350B3e model helicopter with the Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine.
The Donaldson IBF approval adds the AS350B3e to the existing Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for both single hydraulic aircraft (PN#112005-101) and dual hydraulic aircraft (PN#121001-101).
With this added IBF solution, Eurocopter operators can obtain maximum engine protection while reaping performance benefits from proven Donaldson technology. Expansion of the STC allows operators to keep commonality within their fleet of different AS350 models equipped with Donaldson IBFs.
Donaldson IBF systems for the Eurocopter AS350B3e feature an easily removed flat filter assembly and integral bypass design, readily installed into existing cowl designs without burdensome cowling alterations. A filter maintenance aid allows for on-condition status checks between established cleaning intervals, eliminating unnecessary service. No restrictions are imposed for flight in falling or blowing snow or with visible moisture in non-icing conditions. Users of the Donaldson IBF systems will realize better engine protection and performance over that offered by traditional sand filters or improved inertial particle separators.