Rolls-Royce delivers first production RR300 engine from new assembly line

Wednesday, 12 March 2008

A newly-commissioned small engine assembly line at the Rolls-Royce facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, this week completed the assembly and test of its first production RR300 engine for installation in the new Robinson Helicopters’ R66.

Ken Roberts, Acting President of the Rolls-Royce Helicopter business said: “The RR300 engine program has gone from concept to reality in under two years. Today’s delivery milestone follows closely on the heels of receiving the Federal Aviation Administration Type and Production Certification awards.

“It also signals the start of full-rate production for the RR30; hundreds of which are on order by Robinson Helicopters over the next few years.”

The RR300 is the newest member of the Rolls-Royce family of helicopter engines and the first to provide turbine power in the lower shaft horsepower (shp) range. This is the first time there has been a proven turbine alternative to piston engines, representing a major step forward in the helicopter industry. The engine delivers 300 shaft horsepower (shp) at take-off, excellent hot and high performance and outstanding value.

A prototype RR300 engine has been flying on a Robinson helicopter since mid-2007.

In addition to orders with Robinson Helicopters, Rolls-Royce also signed Memoranda of Understanding with Enstrom Helicopters, Schweizer Aircraft and MD Helicopters to evaluate future applications of the new RR300 engine family.

The RR300 embodies new technology and advanced design methodology. The engine draws on the proven record of other Rolls-Royce turbine powerplants to deliver a powerful, dependable engine at a competitive price.
Key attributes of the RR300 include: lower acquisition and operating costs; low-weight, compact design; improved specific fuel consumption; an embedded engine monitoring system; and the ability to burn a wide variety of aviation fuels.
Rolls-Royce, the world-leading provider of power systems and services for use on land, at sea and in the air, operates in four global markets; civil aerospace, defence aerospace, marine and energy.
It continues to invest in core technologies, products, people and capabilities with the objective of broadening and strengthening the product portfolio, improving efficiency and enhancing the environmental performance of its products. These investments create high barriers to entry.
The success of its products is demonstrated by rapid and substantial gains in market share. The company now has a total of 54,000 gas turbines in service worldwide and they generate a demand for high-value services throughout their operational lives.
Rolls-Royce has a broad customer base comprising 600 airlines, 4,000 corporate and utility aircraft and helicopter operators, 160 armed forces, more than 2,000 marine customers including 70 navies, and energy customers in 120 countries. Rolls-Royce is a technology leader, employing 38,000 people in offices, manufacturing and service facilities in 50 countries.

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