Powerplant
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EPI TP400-D6 Turboprop
· Power output of over 11 000 shp
· Three shaft configuration combining state-of-the-art engine modules
· Off-set gearbox based on demonstrator technology
· Dual channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC)
· Optimum performance combined with low operating temperatures.
In order to fulfil the requirement of both strategic and tactical mission performance, the A400M will be powered by new-generation TP400-D6 turboprop engines. Four turboprops each rated at over 11 000 shp will contribute to excellent performance characteristics which will enable A400M to transport a variety of loads and personnel over long distances at high cruise speed. The TP400-D6 is being developed, manufactured and supported by EuroProp International (EPI), a European joint venture company consisting of Rolls-Royce, Snecma Moteurs, MTU Aero Engines and Industria deTurbopropulsores (ITP).
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Ratier-Figeac FH386 Propeller
· 5.33 m (17.5 ft) diameter, 8-bladed advanced composite propellers with de-icing
· 842 rpm max. speed; 290 m/s (951 ft/sec) tip speed at 0.68M
· Variable pitch and fully reversing.
The powerplant uses Ratier-Figeac FH386 propellers that allows the aircraft to fly up to a cruise speed of Mach 0.72.
The propeller blades are of composite construction, having a carbon spar and a composite shell. A polyurethane coating is applied on the shell to protect against erosion. Electrical de-icing is used along the leading edge. The outer part of the blade leading edge has a nickel guard to protect against erosion.
Propeller control is integrated into the FADEC, thus reducing pilot workload. The FADEC controls the blade pitch angle in order to maintain the propeller at a constant, optimum-efficiency speed. It also provides an autofeathering capability upon automatic detection of an engine failure.
Turboprops provide the optimum combination of take-off and landing performance, cruise fuel efficiency and tactical mission performance such as manoeuvring on the ground, steep descents and air-dropping. A turboprop engine consumes 20% less fuel per mission relative to a turbofan, leading to lower operating weights, and hence lower acquisition and operating costs and optimised payload.
