Make Your Aircraft safe with RATs

While flying is an exceedingly safe means of travel, aircraft manufacturers have to expect the unexpected. Even in the event of total engine failure, aircraft can glide for impressive distances. However, in order to land the aircraft safely, a power source is needed to operate the flight controls. This is where ram air turbines (RATs) come in. RAT systems, a product of Hamilton Sundstrand, can provide emergency power in the event of engine, hydraulic, or electrical failure. Available in hydraulic, electric, and hybrid models, RATs have become a standard of backup systems in modern day aircraft whether it be business, regional, large commercial jets, or military.

RAT systems operate by deploying a turbine into the external airstream through a spring-loaded actuator. Subsequently, the turbine powers a pump to pressurize the plane’s primary hydraulic channel or a generator to power the essential electrical components of the aircraft. By only powering the most essential functions, a relatively small RAT can supply enough power for the crew to safely maneuver the plane and carry out a safe landing.

On average, ram air turbine diameters come out to approximately eighty centimeters, though RATs used in commercial jets like the Airbus A380 are double that size. The majority of deployable RATs today feature two blades that rotate at high speeds, resulting in more efficiency than older RATs that had four blades. Turbine with diameters of eighty centimeters have rotational speeds that range from 5500 to 7700 rpm allowing aircraft speeds of 125 to 375 knots.

Once the RAT is deployed, the supplied power allows the aircraft to operate at approximately ten percent power. While this is far from full operation, it is enough to power crucial flight controls, linked hydraulics, and flight-critical instruments. Since their invention, Hamilton Sundstrand RATs have been deployed on fifteen occasions, saving nearly 2000 lives.

At Veritable Aerospace, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find RAT systems for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@veritableaerospace.com or call us at 1-714-705-4780.

Releted Parts: 1703781A, 1211523-002, 226260-501