Power of the future propulsion unit will be 1450 hp.

Photo: United Engine Corporation

United Engine Corporation completed the design engineering stage and approved a mockup of the new VK-1600S turboprop for small passenger aircraft. Power of the future propulsion unit, being Russia’s first product of such class, will be 1450 hp. 

At the next stage, an engine demonstrator and test bench will be created to validate the engineering solutions and certify the new product. The engine is being designed by UEC-Klimov in St.Petersburg on the basis of the VK-1600V helicopter engine. Existing key assemblies, including a gas generator, are used as a basis to accelerate the design process. 

Degree of unification of the helicopter and airplane engine will be 60 to 65%. The new engine design stage involved free turbine modification and creation of new gearbox and accessory box assemblies. Application of a modern electronic control system such as FADEC will ensure stable engine operation at altitudes ranging from 300 to 4500 meters at 100% humidity and temperature from −50 to +55 °C. 

“The project is intended to supplement a family of reliable state-of-the-art propulsion units for Russia’s aircraft. It is worth noting that that UEC has already created the next generation PD-8 and TV7-117ST-01 engines for regional airliners, and the PD-14 engine for medium-range aircraft. A family of solutions is being developed on the basis of the PD-35 technology engine demonstrator for long-range airliners. Small aircraft also remain unforgotten: the VK-1600S is designed for small-size passenger aircraft,” said Rostec’s representatives. 

The new VK-1600S will be used on aircraft as part of single-engine propulsion together with the AV-17 propeller.