Kopter Group AG, a Leonardo company, has selected AMETEK PDS to provide the Power Distribution Unit, Starter Generator and Generator Control Unit for their next generation single-engine SH09 helicopter. Due to its large and easily reconfigurable cabin, the versatile SH09 is perfectly adapted to a wide range of missions, including passenger transport, medical evacuation, utility and law enforcement.

An AMETEK PDS Power Distribution Unit (PDU) will manage the helicopter's primary power from the generators and batteries, distributing it to the main power buses and circuit breaker panels while integrating communications from the Generator Control Unit (GCU), and Control Panel System. The lightweight PDU provides critical circuit protection to safeguard the system and loads from dangerous faults.

Each PDU is designed with a fail-safe design philosophy that provides a default operating mode that permits the application of battery and generator power to the appropriate loads. This ensures that power is maintained for essential and emergency buses.

Additionally, a PDS Starter Generator will provide the power generation and engine start functions for the SH09. The rugged Starter Generator is designed with enhanced brushes and bearings for greater reliability and offers maximised output at low speeds for optimal fuel savings.

Engine start and power regulation from the Starter Generator is controlled through a complementary PDS Generator Control Unit. The lightweight GCU offers the SH09 triple-redundant overvoltage protection, enhanced built-in-test capability and has been designed with an innovative, patented technology that delivers proprietary soft charging for superior battery life.