Heli Austria and Heli Werk have added an EASA-approved lithium battery upgrade for all EC135 models, including Helionix-equipped aircraft. The kit has been developed and certified by Heli Austria with Heli Werk’s EASA Part 21J design and certification expertise with Part 21G production capabilities. Heli Austria holds the EASA STC 10090942, while Heli Werk produces the upgrade kit via EASA Form 1.
The solution replaces conventional nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries with a TB30 or TB40 lithium-ion battery system, which depending on the aircraft’s existing battery set up could save up to 19.8kg while adding up to 15Ah in battery capacity. Furthermore, the partners say that because the new fit has an ‘on condition’ maintenance regime the need for scheduled battery overhauls is eliminated which will reduce battery-related maintenance requirements and aircraft downtime.
Kits have the option of an either a 30 Ah TB30 battery system or a 40Ah TB40 battery system Each kit includes the selected battery system, the components required for installation and the applicable STC documentation. The suitable battery option, achievable weight reduction and installation scope depend on the aircraft’s existing configuration.
“EC135 operators can now choose a complete upgrade solution that combines lower weight, higher capacity and reduced scheduled battery maintenance,” said Joachim Kies, Managing Director of Heli Werk. “Our focus was to turn the approved design into a production-ready kit supplied with the required installation components and documentation.”
“Working with Heli Werk went smoothly from start to finish,” added Roy Knaus, Managing Director of Heli Austria. “The close coordination between design and production helped us move the project through certification and deliver a solution that is ready for operators.”
Images: Heli Austria
