Homegrown innovation in aviation supported by TIKZN

South Africa has taken a step closer to becoming a knowledge-based economy with the unveiling of the first all-South African designed and developed general aviation (GA) engine.

Developed by a small team of engineers at ADEPT Airmotive at Durban's Virginia Airport, the fuel efficient engine, which runs on a choice of fuels, including regular motor gasoline, catapults South Africa to the forefront of the global aviation industry.

The ADEPT T320 engine is the most advanced engine of its kind, setting new industry standards in terms of performance and sustainability.

As 90% of ADEPT's production will be exported, the new development represents significant foreign exchange earnings for the company.

The unveiling of the groundbreaking engine at Virginia Airport, Durban on May 17, 2010, showcased South African aviation engineering at its best.

Running on locally produced biofuel (a world first), the engine will power a South African SA Ravin 500 advanced composite aircraft that will be equipped with a state-of-the-art 'glass cockpit' digital avionics suite, which is also designed and manufactured in South Africa.

ADEPT is supported by the Innovation Fund, which is now part of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN). In maintaining its mandate as the official Investment Promotion Agency in KwaZulu-Natal, TIKZN aims to identify, develop and package investment opportunities in the province to brand and market KwaZulu-Natal as the premier investment destination and to assist local companies to access international markets.

Green cradle-to-grave development and manufacturing philosophy

The design and manufacturing processes used in the production of the engine have a number of unique features that contribute to the justifiable claim that the engine is the most advanced GA engine in its class:

  • Multi-fuel capability – The ADEPT engines are the first General Aviation engines that can operate on conventional lead-free Mogas (motor gasoline), Biofuels, LPG, and on fuels with octane ratings below 100. When the engine is rolled out next week, it will be running on a locally produced biofuel.
  • Most environmentally friendly engine in the aviation industry- lowest Nox, CO2, unburned hydrocarbons, lead and noise levels.
  • From Digital Prototyping design process, to emission-free foundry casting processes to the recyclable materials used in manufacture, the engine is produced to a green cradle-to-grave philosophy.
  • Best-in-class fuel efficiency, up to 30% better than industry standards.
  • Lowest lifecycle costs in general aviation.

Contact:

Analeah Royeppen
Position: Communications Officer
Tel: +27 31 368 9610
Cell: +27 83 483 2279
Fax: +27 86 500 9862
Email: analeah@tikzn.co.za


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