JetProp Operators Happy With Reliability
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Enviro ECU
Operators of the first Twin Commanders to be retrofitted with an improved version of the Enviro Systems Environment Control Unit (ECU) say they are enjoying new-found reliability.
An oil leak problem affecting Sundstrand ECUs has not been an issue with the new Enviro components, operators report. “It hasn’t spit out oil or failed like the Sundstrand,” said John Clanton, a pilot for Harrison Steel Castings, which operates a 690D (model 900).
“The crews aren’t complaining, so I’m happy,” added Mike Merek, a NOAA equipment specialist who oversees maintenance for the agency’s 695A (model 1000).
Clanton said he has gone through dozens of Sundstrand units that leaked oil in the turbine section, but so far the improved Enviro ECU has performed well. Precise temperature control in the cabin is something of an issue, Clanton added, but that will be addressed when the airplane next goes to Byerly Aviation for scheduled maintenance. Byerly installed the Enviro kit in Harrison’s 900.
Merek said cabin temperature control also was an issue after Eagle Creek Aviation Services replaced the Sundstrand unit in NOAA’s 1000 with the Enviro kit, but the problem has since been resolved.
The improved Enviro ECU is designed for JetProp models (840, 900, 980, and 1000) fitted with standard Sundstrand ECUs or an earlier version of the Enviro ECU. The improvements incorporated into the latest Enviro design are available to JetProp operators with the earlier Enviro package, while the improved Enviro kit provides for complete replacement of the Sundstrand ECU. The kit includes heat exchangers, blowers, bleed air plumbing, and new air inlet and outlet vents mounted on the aft fuselage.
A separate air-conditioning unit is required for the Enviro ECU. Sundstrand-equipped airplanes with air-conditioning would not have to replace their AC units when converting to an Enviro system.
For more information about the Enviro upgrade for JetProp Twin Commanders, contact Twin Commander Aircaft at 360-435-9797, or an authorized Twin Commander Service Center.
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