Eco-efficiency for light helicopters
One of the smaller exhibits on Eurocopter’s Heli-Expo 2010 display stand has attracted a significant amount of attention from today’s mid-morning opening of the helicopter industry’s largest trade show.
This exhibit is the innovative OPOC™ (Opposite Piston Opposite Cylinder) engine from U.S.-based EcoMotors International, which illustrates Eurocopter’s goal of flying a light helicopter powered by a diesel engine.
The EM100 is a compact, high-compression engine that operates on the 2-cycle principle—generating one power stroke per crank-revolution per cylinder. It comprises two opposing cylinders per module, with a crankshaft between them, and each cylinder has two pistons moving in opposite directions.
“We are exploring different avenues in diesel power for a light single-engine helicopter, and the OPOC concept is one of many options we are pursuing,” explained Olivier Jouis, Eurocopter’s Head of Environmental Affairs. “We believe diesel is an eco-efficient solution for the future of small helicopters—as it can slash fuel consumption by as much as 40 percent.”
Jouis said Eurocopter’s objective is to work with diesel engine manufacturers to reach power-to-weight ratios that can challenge the advantages of a classic turbine.
