Fuel Cell AEROPAK from Horizon Energy Systems (HES) has been successfully integrated as a new drive system of unmanned aircraft, Bird Eye 650, from IAI.
Without increasing takeoff weight, the new Horizon Fuel Cell, now allows mini devices UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) from IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries) to fly up to 6 hours, more than double the motorized flights Lithium batteries.
"UAS Bird Eye 650 already offers a high level of operational flexibility with the capabilities of mission and automatic flight of last generation. We are looking for an energy source that is at the same level as this device", said Alex Grinberg, director of R &D UAS program from IAI Malat Division.
"Bird Eye 650 is equipped now with AEROPAK, a fuel cell system which undoubtedly will make the best device in its class".
AEROPAK is a fuel cell system (galvanic cell) with permissive membrane for proton exchange (Proton Exchange Membrane, PEM) developed by the company Horizon Energy Systems (HES) in Singapore. The system ensures quiet and reliable electric propulsion which extends the fight time of mini-UAS. Its source of energy consists of portable chemical fuel cartridge, hot replaceable.
Before launching AEROPAK, extended flight endurance capabilities have been limited to UAS platforms, most important and expensive, mainly to differentiate them from the power supply by batteries.
Today, thanks to a supply solution by fuel cells, more flexible and economical mini-UAS devices can take advanced missions type ISTAR (long-term surveillance and reconnaissance), patrolling and escorting convoys, etc.
AEROPAK system performance : - Continuous power: 200W - Peak power: 600W for less than 10 minutes (optional - hybrid batteries) - Direct current: 10A - Output voltage: 20V - 32V - Weight: 470g / 1.04lbs - Volume: 1.2L - Life at nominal power: 500 h - Ambient Temperature: 0-40 degree C.
