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Robinson Helicopter adds TB17 battery to R44 options

February 3, 2021  By Naomi Szeben


Image courtesy of Robinson Helicopter Company

Robinson Helicopter Company added the TB17 Lithium-ion battery to its R44 options.

The company explains the TB17 by True Blue Power, a division of Mid-Continent Instrument, offers substantial weight savings, improved starter performance and longer life.

At 16 pounds, the TB17 is substantially lighter than the R44’s standard 29.5-pound battery, reducing the helicopter’s overall weight by 13.5 pounds. Lithium-ion chemistry provides a higher voltage than lead-acid batteries for improved starter performance.

Robinson explains the Lithium-ion battery’s internal heater ensures optimal performance in cold temperatures as low as -40°C. Typical battery life is 8 years with minimal required maintenance (visual inspection and capacity check) every 2 years.

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The TB17 battery passed rigorous manufacturer and FAA tests to ensure safety. An indicator light on the instrument console’s annunciator panel warns the pilot if a battery fault is detected.

During fault conditions, the battery automatically takes itself off-line. Built-in circuitry prevents overcharge and/or overheating, and the TB17’s advanced Nanophosphate chemistry is much less susceptible to thermal runaway than many other Lithium-ion batteries.

Now available on new aircraft – US$7,300.

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