Scott’s–Bell 47 Says New Blades Interchangeable In
Pairs With OEM Parts
Scott’s–Bell 47 (SB47) has firmed up a contracted
with IAC Ltd. to develop new composite main rotor blades for the
model 47 fleet. The new main rotor blade will consist of a custom
selected airfoil for improved performance and will be developed
using the latest composite materials design & manufacturing
technologies.
SB47 anticipates this new airfoil will provide increases in
hover performance and a reduction in fuel burn. The development
plan also includes fatigue & damage tolerance testing planned
to demonstrate a service life increase over the current 5,000
flight hours for the Bell designed metal blades. SB47 also
confirmed that the composite blade will be designed to retain the
Model 47 helicopter’s autorotation capability. It is intended
that these new blades be interchangeable in pairs with the current
metal blades in-service.
“We think this is a very exciting development for the
model 47 operators,” stated Scott Churchill, President/Owner
of Scott’s–Bell 47. “We have been getting asked
for some time if we were considering a composite main rotor blade,
and after working with a number of potential suppliers it was clear
that this is the right choice rather than continuing to manufacture
the existing metal blades.”
“The value proposition for a composite main rotor blade is
extremely positive,” stated Neil Marshall, General Manager of
Scott’s-Bell 47. “Improved performance, potential for
improved service life, inherent damage tolerance, manufacturing
consistency blade-to-blade, and we are able to provide this while
maintaining the best-in-class autorotation performance of the Model
47.”
Also, with an eye to safety, the new blades will come as
standard with a high visibility paint scheme. “We expect the
new blades to be available late 2013 and we will keep our customer
base informed as we progress towards that goal. Considering the
recent announcement of a new Instrument Panel for the Model 47, we
believe this sends a strong message to the marketplace that SB47 is
committed to developing the Model 47 fleet,” Marshall
said.
SB47 will offer customers the option to advance order the new
composite main rotor blades at an introductory price starting at
the upcoming Heli-Expo in Dallas, Texas next month. IAC, Ltd will
also be on-hand at the show to answer questions regarding the new
blades.
IAC is an internationally recognized main and tail rotor blade
repair & overhaul service provider in Fort Worth, Texas with
FAA certifications to inspect & repair all major OEM’s
rotor blades. In addition to repair activities, IAC and its
affiliates are currently developing new blade designs for several
helicopter models.