In an interview, Al Klapmeier talked about changes in the production
model of the Kestrel, including fuselage dimensions and wing. I read
somewhere that they will go to a less-complex/straighter wing. At
Mondays announcement they had the prototype aircraft sitting on display
out if front of their hangar, and a mock-up fuselage sitting inside. The
small crowd did not spend much time looking at the aircraft, nor did
they have company reps outside to answer questions while I was there
because the January weather was rather nippy at the 09:30 AM gathering
time.

Kestrel announced in July that they will be using a Honeywell engine
tuned for around 1000HP.  Goal is 350 KTS, but I've read that they may
back off a bit on that number

http://www.kestrel.aero/pdfs/KAC%20PR%2007.21.11%20HONEYWELL%20POWERS%
20KESTREL.pdf

Taking a look at the attached photo from Kestrel web site .... now THAT
is a PSRU.  No wonder those engines go for about a $million each.


Robin Bergland


Huh..  Spur driving planetary.  I guess they have to get from
30,000RPM down to 1700RPM somehow..


Regards,

Matt-

A good reason for the spur is the prop shaft offset. Turbines like ram air so that is a good way to get direct ram air in under the prop to the compressor. The flaw in the PT6, if any, is forcing the ram air to turn a 90 degree corner. My guess is this improves the BSFC somewhat.

Paul Lamar