Photo: Northwest UAV

by AUVSI News 

Northwest UAV announced the successful completion of the Federal Aviation Regulations 33 Endurance Test on the NW-44 Multi-Fuel UAV propulsion system. The NW-44 tests were conducted under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement, with oversight by the U.S. Special Operations Command. Endurance testing was completed March 19, following stringent 14 CFR Part 33.39 guidelines.



The 3.6-horsepower NW-44 propulsion system operated for 60 hours at or above maximum continuous speed with a full 280-watt generator load while at extreme temperatures. The engine was also operated at or above maximum continuous speed for over 100 hours, receiving only normal maintenance and inspections through the evaluation. The test as a whole was executed using logistically important heavy fuel — a kerosene based diesel fuel commonly used in military and commercial aviation.



After the successful test of the NW-44 engine, regulators performed a 14 CFR Part 33.55 compliant teardown inspection. This inspection noted that all systems maintained full flight worthy status, showing only light wear and minimal carbon build up. The system has since been reassembled and now is back in service for continued validation testing up to its anticipated 400-hour overhaul.



The manned aviation industry utilizes the FAA’s FAR 33 guidelines as the baseline test to determine engine viability for certification of manned aircraft. The NW-44 is the only small UAS propulsion system designed to be FAR 33 Subpart C compliant. 



NWUAV will be exhibiting the NW-44 engine during Xponential 2016 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans May 2 through May 5.

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