German engine manufacturer Red Aircraft has successfully fitted and flown a 500-hp diesel engine in a Yak 18T test bed.
The Red Aircraft A03 is an all-aluminium 12-cylinder FADEC turbo-diesel that the manufacturer says has performance comparable to turbo-prop engines, but burns up to 50% less fuel. The Yak 18T is a Russian five-seat aircraft usually fitted with a Vedeneyev M14 radial engine.
Red Aircraft has reported the experiment showed a significant improvement in performance, including a 50% increase in useful load, a cruise speed increase from 140 KTAS to 215 KTAS and a fuel saving of 20-40%.
Red Aircraft was delighted with the performance of the engine.
”Compared to the traditional powerplant, the aircraft’s cruise speed increased significantly, while having more power reserves available," said Red's Jürgen Schwarz. "The aircraft is now equipped with modern instrumentation allowing for a precise control and monitoring of its engine systems.
"The YAK -18T- Red A03 is set for a brighter future with its powerful and more efficient power plant."
The A03 engine is configured in two banks of six cylinders, which are capable of operating completely independently of each other. All sub-systems are also indepdent, which provides redundany in the case of failure.
Red Aircraft has certified the A03 for 500 hp, but is working on a power increase to 550 hp.