PPRuNe Forums - EC 175

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- - EC 175 (https://www.pprune.org/rotorheads/281966-ec-175-a.html)

I'll still take the EC175 and no Italians.

Everyone has his limitations, I'd say.:cool:

Tottigol,
I agree with you!

And I hope that the ones that bought the 540 AW139s sold until now, think the same...

Has anyone seen how the cowlings open on the 175? Looks like 2 pieces, fwd and aft. I am guessing they slide, but I am wondering how the fwd one can slide if an upper WSPS is installed. Just something I wondered when looking at some pics.

Some more performance data is emerging.

Quote:

In releasing EC175 enhanced performance specifications today, Eurocopter announced a baseline payload/radius-of-action capacity with 16 passengers at 135 nautical miles when configured for offshore oil and gas missions, out-performing any medium-lift helicopter on the market in terms of competitiveness. This represents a 30 percent performance increase compared with the initial performance baseline. For longer-range missions, EC175 can transport 12 passengers to a radius of action of 190 nautical miles.

In addition, Eurocopter has launched the development of a 18 passengers configuration option, aiming at carrying those 18 passengers to a radius-of-action of 100 nautical miles.

On he programme generally

Quote:

The EC175 program is progressing well, with first deliveries targeted in late 2012 following certification in the offshore mission configuration with the enhanced performance.

Ongoing testing continues to validate the EC175’s rugged design, including cold and hot weather trials, bird strike tests, and gearbox operation for 30 minutes after loss of oil.

Two EC175 prototypes have logged more than 270 flight hours to date and industrial activity is continuing – with the first two serial aircraft being assembled at the Eurocopter’s Marignane facility in France.

EC175 exceeds operational targets with 30% performance increase | Helihub - the Helicopter Industry Data Source

If the sales blurb is like the other eurocopters I will wait and see what it will actually do.... If you know what I mean?

How cynical!

I was rather hoping one or two PPRUNEsters are currently 'comparing' the type to its spec and able to comment;)

I think lowfat's comment is based on history and he is expressing scepticism.

Cynicism is simply too easy when discussing ECF :E

Being slow-witted, I can't quite see the point of the EC175 when compared against the EC225. I mean, 100 NM radius with 18 pax, presumably returning to base with 45 mins fuel remaining. Really....and?

With the same 45 mins fuel remaining, the EC225 routinely carries 19 pax, and has radius of action of 190 NM. (Arrogant yawn).

Wherever the EC175 might be intended to operate, it doesn't seem to fit a niche operating to Northern North Sea decks from Aberdeen. Even the S92 can't hold a candle to the EC225 when comparing load carried versus range versus fuel consumption.

Climb the EC225 to FL80, it does that smoothly and easily, reduce the lever to a division below MCP on the FLI to maintain the average 145 kt TAS, the fuel consumption drops to below 590 kg/hr, increasing the radius of action to 210 NM. An easy 10% gain!

And so for specific fuel consumption per passenger and effective range, the EC225 is the clear leader. I rest my case M'Lud. (Smug smile).

Is there an Oriental version of the 225? If the answer is 'no' then I can only assume that is why the 175 has been conceived - massive market and massive opportunities?

What is an Oriental Version? One that is produced on the Orient or one with special features? If so what would those special features be?

#5 and a #12 maybe?

Sorry couldn't resist

Si

Colibri, I think the point is that the 175 is a lot cheaper to buy and operate, so if you don't have 19 pax, and your installation is not that far offshore, it might be a better option.

Hello,
You're right HeliComparator, there's a market for this class of aircraft.
that's the reason for exemple, why Bristow has signed for 6 AW189 (16 seats as standard with the option for a high density 18 seat layout or an ultra long range 12 seat configuration).

Looking at the cabin in the EC175, it would seem that if they're going to offer an 18 seat option, the pax would all have to be 5'6" Orientals weighing 140 lbs (10 stone) max, and their consequent baggage allowance would be a shaving bag plus a spare pair of underpants.

To be cheaper to buy and operate, I guess those costs pertaining to the EC225 would have to be factored by something like .66 for the EC175. But I wonder whether Eurocopter could afford to offer them for that.

Does anyone know what the asking price is?

Colibri49 - I think you've found the 'Oriental' version.
If China had been involved with 225 production then we would probably not be seeing the 175? Would have brought the purchase price down/operating costs but it is a large chopper IMHO and I have not done the market research!
If I've learnt one thing in rotary world - that must be never to believe blurb of PR department!!
Wish AW all the best in its battle with EC to produce the 'default' medium lift chopper as competition can only be good news for operators and passengers alike.

I see NHV just placed a order for 10 at the Expo!

can any of you guys give a feedback on the latest on the 175:)

The Eurocopter EC175 is making progress toward certification. :ok:

Transport Canada has already certified Pratt & Whitney Canada’s 1,775-shp PT6C-67E turboshaft.

EC has now revealed the precise mtow for the helicopter: 16,535 pounds.

The radius of action, for two pilots and up to 16 passengers, is given as 135 nm (oil and gas configuration, JAR OPS 3, fuel reserves 30 minutes plus 10-percent contingency fuel, ISA conditions).