UK-based Power Systems International is pleased to announce the launch of its new SD series 4 solid state frequency converters.
Established in 1986, Power Systems International produces custom-engineered frequency conversion power solutions for specialised applications, such as 400Hz aircraft ground power systems for airports and military airfields. The firm also supplies 28V DC power systems for the engines of helicopters and smaller commuter aircrafts.
The company has an established record of high-profile frequency converter installations for military airfield hangars, naval establishments and civil airports, plus special versions fitted to helipads on offshore oil and gas platforms.
The team at Power Systems International works closely with aircraft manufacturers, local aviation authorities, airport developers, maintenance hangars and aviation workshop operators, consulting engineers and architects to determine the best cost-effective means to deliver ground power service to aircraft ‘on-demand’ to a dedicated point-of-use.
New range of solid state frequency converters
Managing director Jon Hill said: "We have taken note of customer feedback about features the market and prospective users wanted to have on future aircraft power installations.
"The new SD series 4, solid state frequency converters are derived from our more than 25 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of rectifiers, inverters, UPS systems and frequency converters intended for heavy-duty operation in all harsh environment and climatic conditions. Our range of outdoor duty 400Hz frequency converter products are constructed in rugged, all-weather-resistant enclosures suitable for military airfields, airports, naval, offshore platforms and other applications where fixed (FGPS) or mobile (GPU) point-of-use power for aircraft and helicopters is required.
"We also have indoor versions of 400Hz frequency converters designed for use in maintenance hangars, avionics workshops, hard shelters, technical centres and simulator applications. We can also supply a ‘combination’ converter design with 400Hz output of 90kVA, 120kVA or 180kVA and with an additional 28V DC 600A output, constructed in mild steel or in a stainless-steel enclosure with ingress protection of IP55 for use with helipads on board drilling ships, offshore oil and gas platforms and other naval vessels."
The Power Systems International AC-to-DC converters can connect to normal 50Hz or 60Hz three-phase power sources and produce a highly stable 28.5V DC output for starting helicopter and aircraft engines, as well as for essential battery charging to conserve energy in on-board aircraft batteries. The DC converter is also supplied as a towable mobile unit or as a fixed indoor or outdoor construction.
The company supplies made-up flexible 400Hz and 28V DC cable harnesses, which are fitted with the industry standard 400Hz and DC aircraft power connectors. Cable reeling systems and in-ground service pits provided with power, compressed air and other services for the aircraft in the maintenance hangars. The service pits are custom engineered to meet the specific design specification of the user.
The ‘service pit’ with integral cable stowage facility enhances the focus of the company on providing ‘point of use’ power, where and when it is needed for all types of aircraft.
Power Systems International’s ‘point of use’ power products enable the 400Hz frequency converter (GPU) to be sited conveniently close to the parking position of the aircraft. This means the horizontal configured product can be underslung from the passenger loading bridge, above the main axle of the loading gantry wheels or from a base frame structure fitted with a pantograph type of cable management system with operation radius on the apron covering the parking position of all types of aircraft.
Frequency converter (GPU) sizes
The frequency converters are available from 20kVA to 300kVA suitable for use on three-phase 400V, 50Hz or 60Hz normal mains input. The output is the standard aircraft frequency 400Hz and voltage of 200V between phases with 115V between phase and neutral.
A mobile version on the frequency converter range up to 180kVA is available built onto a towable chassis constructed from galvanised steel fitted with three pneumatic tyred large diameter wheels for easy manoeuvrability and small turning circle.
The mobile converter (GPU) has a novel mechanical construction using a moulded fibreglass enclosure to achieve all weather protection (IP54), no risk of rusting, rounded moulded corners, no sharp edges, tubular fender around the base and easy access tubular cable stowage frames.
The new feature available for the GPU is a battery-powered motorised front wheel assembly to enable the GPU to be handled by one person using a simple tiller control handle, instead of the normal practice of larger airports that rely on a tow tractor to take the GPU to its place of use.
On a fully charged battery, the motorised GPU can operate for 10km at a walking pace of 7.5km/h.
For more information, please contact Power Systems International.