The Pratt & Whitney Canada PW200 is a family of small turboshaft engines used in light twin-engine helicopters. Its principal PW206 and PW207 series entered service during the 1990s and support aircraft used for medical transport, utility operations, security work and business aviation.[1]
Gas generator and power turbine
The engine has a single-stage centrifugal compressor driven by a single-stage turbine. A reverse-flow combustor, following the general arrangement established by the PT6, supplies the hot gas. A separate single-stage power turbine drives the output shaft through a reduction gearbox at the front of the engine. Combining the reduction and accessory gearboxes helps keep the assembly compact.[2]
Controls and installation
The electronic engine control incorporates hydromechanical backup and supports automatic starting. Engine-life usage information can be integrated with health monitoring. The gearbox includes an electronic torquemeter and an integrated oil tank, while the radial compressor inlet has a screen intended to protect against foreign-object damage. These features address both pilot workload and the practical demands of helicopter installation.[2]
Aircraft applications
PW206B versions power Pratt & Whitney-equipped H135 helicopters, including the earlier EC135P1 and later H135P3. The PW207D1 is used in the Bell 429, while the PW207C powers the Leonardo A109 Grand. Other family installations include the A109E Power and MD Explorer. The variety of models reflects different power and integration requirements across the light-helicopter market.[1]
Maintenance design
The PW200 uses a modular arrangement with only three major rotating components. Accessible replaceable units, a low parts count and on-condition maintenance provisions are intended to simplify support. The manufacturer's fact sheet places PW206 and PW207 thermodynamic power classes at approximately 640 and 730 shaft horsepower respectively; those figures describe engine capability under specified conditions rather than a universal installed helicopter rating.[2]