The Safran Arrius is a small turboshaft family used in single-engine and twin-engine light helicopters. It spans the approximately 450–750-shaft-horsepower class, with important applications including the Bell 505 and Safran-powered Airbus H135. Different versions combine a common family background with aircraft-specific controls and ratings.[1][2]
H135 development
The Arrius 2B2Plus entered H135 service in 2014. It improved takeoff and hot-and-high performance compared with the earlier 2B2. Safran lists 660 shaft horsepower at takeoff and 621 for maximum continuous operation for the Plus version, together with a 4,000-hour overhaul interval. It uses single-channel full-authority digital engine control to manage the engine throughout its operating range.[2]
Bell 505 installation
The Arrius 2R was certified in December 2015 and is assembled at Safran's Grand Prairie facility in Texas. Designed for the Bell 505, it is rated at 522 shaft horsepower for takeoff and 476 for maximum continuous operation. Its dual-channel digital control reduces engine-management workload, while a two-module arrangement supports maintenance access and replacement of major assemblies.[1]
Continuing technology changes
The Arrius 2E was developed for the Airbus H140 in the 700-shaft-horsepower class. Safran describes a redesigned hot section, dual-channel digital control and additive-manufactured components, including parts of the hydromechanical unit. The design draws on technologies developed for the larger Arriel 2E and Arrano 1A engine programmes.[3]
Operating roles
Arrius-powered H135s undertake emergency medical, search-and-rescue and military-training missions. The 2B2Plus improvements were aimed particularly at demanding operating conditions, where available power can be reduced by altitude and temperature. The family therefore serves both relatively simple single-engine aircraft and twin-engine helicopters requiring additional performance margins for specialist work.[2]