LHTEC Successfully Tests Engines for Ayres Loadmaster

The Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company said Sunday that it had successfully completed the first series of engine tests on its CTP800-4T turboprop propulsion system unit that will power the Ayers Loadmaster twin-engine, single-propeller aircraft.

LHTEC's 2,700-hp twin-engine PSU completed 40 hours of testing at the AlliedSignal remote test site near Phoenix.

In initial tests, the engines reached a maximum of 1,350 shp. Clearance for full engine power tests is scheduled for next month following Hamilton-Standard 568 propeller evaluations.

"The Loadmaster is the most efficient aircraft in its size class for hauling cargo or passengers 500 nmi," said LHTEC president Mike Bush. "Our technology provides the Loadmaster with superior power-to-weight ratio, reduced fuel consumption, and low operating costs."

The CTP800-4T, mounted in the nose of the Loadmaster, consists of two engines driving a single propeller through a combining gearbox. The two engines are derivatives of the U.S. Army T800 that powers the Comanche RAH-66 Armed Reconnaissance helicopter.

LHTEC is a 50/50 partnership of AlliedSignal Engines and Allison Engine, now part of Rolls-Royce, operating as Rolls-Royce Allison.

Federal Express has chosen the Ayres Loadmaster for its air cargo feeder operations. Ayers (Booth 1331), of Albany, GA, is offering the Loadmaster for both cargo and passenger applications in domestic and international markets.

By Jim Street