Flygas, a specialist developer of engines and related components for professional UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) applications, is a trusted and valued supplier partner on Unmanned Systems Technology.
As a continued partner, UST is proud to spotlight the company’s unique solutions via the Flygas supplier profile. The company’s high-powered propulsion solutions are 100% made in Italy and other EU countries, and are ideal for precision agriculture, defense, mapping and surveying, drone delivery and more.
Flygas’ UAV engines are designed specifically for Group 4 and Group 5 platforms, and are highly suited to high-altitude and MALE (medium-altitude long-endurance) applications.
The GAS418HA is a high-performance four-stroke gasoline UAV engine that delivers 180HP output at 5800 RPM, with an excellent power-to-weight ratio of up to 2.3 hp/kg. Featuring a gear-driven centrifugal supercharger, it can be easily installed into a wide range of platforms.
The engine can be provided with dual redundant EFI systems, or with a EFI and carburetor configuration. It can also be supplied with a secondary alternator upon request.
The GAS418S is a highly compact four-stroke gasoline engine that is designed to fit into very small UAV fuselages. Ideal for medium to high altitude applications, it is suited to both fixed-wing and unmanned helicopter platforms, delivering specific power of up to 2.31 hp/kg.
Built around a mechanically-driven centrifugal supercharger, it features completely ECU-controlled fuel injection and ignition, ensuring optimum performance under a wide range of environmental conditions. The versatile engine can be installed in either horizontal or vertical axis configurations.
Flygas has developed a range of upgrades that significantly boost the power and reliability of the Rotax 912 four-stroke engine and related models. The enhanced capabilities transform these COTS engines into high-powered propulsion systems that are ideal for demanding Group 4 and Group 5 UAV applications.
The centrifugal supercharger for Rotax 912 series engines provides maximum power of 110KW (150hp) at 5800 RPM, with low installation weight and an oil supply that is completely separate from the engine oil. It delivers an excellent power-to-weight ratio of up to 2.3 hp/kg, with very low exhaust temperatures compared to turbocharged engines.
The supercharger can be provided with dual redundant EFI systems, or with a EFI and carburetor configuration.
Flygas’ patented EFI system is designed to provide Rotax 912 series engines with enhanced engine capabilities and lower operational costs, and can be customized to specific UAV requirements. The system runs parallel to the carburetor, and provides a critical redundancy in case of failure.
The EFI system is fully calibrated to provide the optimal air-fuel mixture under all power delivery conditions. It ensures vibration-free operation, and also removes the possibility of detonation in the supercharged engine at lean stoichiometric ratios.
The Flygas mechanical fuel pump delivers fuel at pressures between 1 and 3 bar, with a flow rate of 150 liters/hour at 3 bar. Designed to operate independently of the 12V system, it conserves electrical energy and continues to operate in the event of an electrical failure or under electromagnetic interference.
Weighing approximately 500g, the compact pump can be installed on any engine, and Flygas can create the right mount to suit your exact requirements. Ready-to-install kits are already available for Rotax 914 Turbo engines.
Thanks to its high level of torque, the mechanical pump is less prone to stoppages due to dirt and debris, and avoids the issues associated with the input filters found in electric pumps. Due to the flow being directly linked to the engine RPM and thus being zero at rest, the design also provides enhanced fire safety.
Flygas also offers kits that enable UAV OEMs and systems integrators to install additional 12V and 24V alternators on board their platforms in order to meet demands for onboard power. Designed as standard for the Rotax 912-914 engines, they offer a lighter, more compact and cost-effective alternative to official solutions.
The kits are provided ready-to-install with no modification required, and can also be tailored towards unique customer requirements and specific engine models. The assembly is mounted directly on the engine shaft, with no need for belt-driving systems.
To find out more about Flygas’ high-powered propulsion solutions for UAVs, visit the company’s profile page:
https://www.unmannedsystemstechnology.com/company/flygas/
