What oil does a helicopter use?

What kind of oil does a helicopter use? Uncovering the secrets of aviation fuel

As an important tool for modern air transportation and emergency rescue, the core of the helicopter's power system is the engine, and the "blood" of the engine is aviation fuel. So, what kind of oil do helicopters use? What are the fuel requirements for different types of helicopters? This article will give you detailed answers based on the hot topics and hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days.

1. Types of helicopter fuel

Helicopter fuel is mainly divided into two categories:AvGasandJet Fuel. The specific choice depends on the helicopter's engine type.

2. Why do helicopters use aviation fuel?

Compared with ordinary automobile fuel, aviation fuel has higher purity and stability, and can meet the flight needs in extreme environments such as high altitude, high pressure, and low temperature. The following are the main advantages of aviation fuel:

• high energy density: Provide stronger power output.
• Good low temperature performance: Not easy to freeze in high-altitude and low-temperature environments.
• Strong antioxidant properties: Extend engine life.
• low impurity content: Reduce engine wear.

3. Hot topic: The rise of environmentally friendly aviation fuel

In the past 10 days, environmentally friendly aviation fuel (Sustainable Aviation Fuel, SAF) has become a hot topic. As the global carbon neutrality goal advances, many airlines have begun testing the application of SAF on helicopters. The main raw materials of SAF include biomass, waste oil, etc., which can reduce carbon emissions by 80%.

4. How to choose suitable helicopter fuel?

Consider the following factors when choosing fuel:

1. Engine type: AvGas is used for piston engines and Jet Fuel is used for turboshaft engines.
2. flight environment: In alpine and cold areas, fuel with better low-temperature performance needs to be selected.
3. cost budget: SAF is more expensive, but has significant environmental benefits.

5. Future Trends: Challenges of Electric Helicopters

In addition to fuel helicopters, electric helicopters have also become a hot topic recently. However, the current energy density of battery technology still cannot meet the needs of long range, and it is expected that fuel helicopters will still be the mainstream in the next 10 years.

Summary

A helicopter's fuel selection directly affects its performance and environmental friendliness. Traditional fuels are mainly AvGas and Jet Fuel, while SAF and electric technology are the future development directions. Whether you are a pilot or an aviation enthusiast, understanding fuel knowledge is crucial.