Eurocopter EC 155
The EC 155 B from the " Dauphin family " is a light multi-purpose helicopter of the German - French group Eurocopter.
Development
The helicopter is a development of the SA 365 by Sud Aviation and Aerospatiale. A special feature of EC 155 helicopter is the relatively large top speed of 327 km / h Machines of the previous series, SA 360 also featured on several world speed records.
X4
6 March 2011, Eurocopter announced to want to replace the EC 155 with the new Eurocopter X4. The X4 has besides more payload and performance even on fly- by-wire.
Construction
The machine has a hydraulic suspension, only the nose wheel is by retracting the landing gear but hidden, the two main gears are in coves that are provided on the left and right side of the fuselage for it. It has a modern glass cockpit and has a cargo space which can accommodate up to 12 people.
The EC 155 is equipped with two turbines. Instead of a conventional tail rotor, the shrouded tail rotor of the type fenestron was used. This French development works like a conventional tail rotor for torque compensation, but is quieter and safer through integrated into the rear cantilever design in operation. The newer version EC 155 B1 has among other features 53 WPS stronger turbine performance, an increased total take-off weight and improved altitude as the EC 155 B. The EC 155 is certified instrument flight and can be flown with night vision device.
Range of applications
Purpose of the EC 155 are among others in the areas of:
- Air rescue
- Search and Rescue
- Offshore missions ( overseas flights eg for the supply of rigs )
- Orders in the range of responsibilities of police or comparable security organs
- VIP transport
User
Among the most frequent users of the EC 155 include government bodies such as the Hong Kong government or the German Federal Police. At the state level police in Germany the police in North Rhine -Westphalia and Baden- Württemberg have bought each two such helicopters, primarily for the use of special task forces. Optionally can be mounted winches ( for up to 272 kg) or Abseilhilfen. Other customers are principally engaged in Ölbohrgeschäft supply companies such Dancopter. In addition, the machine is also marketed in an 8- seater VIP version.