What level of experience exists with the Innodyn Turbine?

Innodyn has been conducting test cell research on the Turbine since 1997. The company has been flying an RV-4 with an Innodyn Turbine since 2002. In July 2004, we began flight-testing on the RV-6AT. An Innodyn Super Cub has recently been equipped and began flying just prior to the 2005 EAA AirVenture airshow. Flight-testing has also begun on a helicopter.

When will the Turbines be available?

We expect to begin delivering production Turbines during the fourth quarter of 2007, with consistent production and deliveries beginning in 2008. We are currently performing ground and flight-testing on the Turbines and Firewall Forward kits. While we are anxious to see our turbines flying in as many aircraft as possible, we are reluctant to rush sales and delivery until we have conducted sufficient tests to assure ourselves that the performance and reliability are what we expect.

How can I get signed up to purchase a Turbine?

Contact us by e-mail (information@innodyn.com) or phone (877.INN.1200) or download purchase information and order form.

Are installation instructions available?

Yes, Innodyn Turbine Engines: Installation and Information Manual, Edition 02-05, July 2005 is available for purchase. Copies can be ordered directly from Innodyn. The copyrighted manuals sell for $100.00 each. Manuals will be provided with the purchase and initial deposit on a turbine. The cost of the manual will be deducted from turbine purchases when buyers place an order.

What sort of fuel can I use?

Innodyn recommends diesel, kerosene, or Jet A. We are planning to test bio-diesel in the coming weeks to ensure there are no issues with this fuel. Other fuels are also being considered for tests. Due to the unique and patented Innodyn fuel control system, the pilot/operator of one of our turbines will be able to mix different fuels. Our control system operates the energy demands of the turbine and utilization of different fuels, even mixed together, has been undetectable by the pilot.

How much fuel do the Turbines burn?

On development turbines our fuel flow, tested by measuring the amount of fuel used in the tanks, was comparable to, but slightly higher than internal combustion engines. Measured in all phases of operation with the RV4 and SuperCub, we found in general, our fuel usage to be approximately 7 gallons per 100 hp per hour. This is internal historical data and has not been independently tested or verified. We continue our efforts to gather additional fuel usage data from independent testing and evaluation. Until we have completed this detailed testing on our first full production engines, we cannot provide precise fuel flow rates. We will be conducting detailed integrated testing on fuel flow and associated hp ratings in the near future. Please check back frequently as we will make this further defined information available as soon as testing is completed.

How much does an Innodyn Turbine weight?

All models of the Innodyn Turbine weigh approximately 188 lbs (86 kg). Hardware modifications between the four current models do not result in any significant weight variation.

What propeller(s) do you recommend?

We presently do not “recommend” any single or particular name brand propeller(s). To date, however, we have experienced good results using either the MT or NSI propellers, both in the electronically controlled, variable pitch configuration with BETA capability. Several new or additional options have been suggested but have not been tested to date.

What about using a constant speed or hydraulic propeller with the turbine?

This option is currently not available. It is, however, a manageable project and Innodyn may place this into its development cycle in the near future, especially on the new Innodyn Twin Turbine design.

Can the turbine and propeller RPM be adjusted in addition to the propeller pitch?

Yes, propeller RPM is pilot adjustable within a relatively large range.

Can an Innodyn Turbine be used in a pusher configuration?

Yes, based on the airframe, the Innodyn Turbine can be fitted without major difficulty to most, if not all, pusher type aircraft.

Is a bleed air system available for cockpit cooling?

Yes, a bleed system can easily be fitted on your turbine-equipped aircraft as an option. Cost of the system will depend on the airframe but in all cases is very modest.

Can cabin heat be obtained from the turbine?

Yes, the turbine exhaust can be shrouded to provide a safe source of cabin
adjustable heat.

A note about Turbine engine operating costs….

In general, our turbine engine operates more efficiently and at lower overall costs than a comparable internal combustion engine. With a longer TBO, consistent power generation at altitude and a comparable initial cost, the Innodyn Turbine is an efficient and economical powerplant. The fuel consumption, although higher than a piston engine, is also offset by the flexibility in the type of fuel used. Our internal fuel flow figure to date of approximately 7 gallons per 100 hp per hour is an average figure across all phases of operation and was obtained using basic aircraft fuel flow meters and measuring fuel usage in the tanks after test flights and in the test cell. We have yet to confirm or validated these fuel flow numbers on our production engine through independent testing. We continue to gather fuel flow data and will be initiating a more structured, independent, fuel usage test program in the near future. The results of this program will provide more precise usage figures applicable to general aviation.