Rheinmetall eMSU marks an important milestone in the aviation industry
Rheinmetall Canada, specializing in the ground support equipment industry, has conducted operational tests with Air Canada and its Rheinmetall eMSU ( electric Motor Start Unit).
This has resulted in the first all-electric air launch unit, which also serves as a new benchmark in the electric ground support equipment sector.
Features of the eMSU
According to the information provided, the eMSU supplies the aircraft engines with compressed air via an electrically powered turbine compressor and a special, integrated battery system. This enables independent operation without an external power source. Accordingly, there is no need for a fixed power supply at the gate or a separate ground power unit.
Rheinmetall reports that the eMSU can launch regional jets, narrow-body aircraft and even wide-body aircraft in this way. In addition, the eMSU can also be used for maintenance work on engines.
The eMSU is compactly mounted on a trailer. It can be charged at a normal car charging station with up to 100 kW. It also heats up quickly and offers good pneumatic performance.
Sustainability through eMSU
The aim is that once launched, the Rheinmetall eMSU will help other airlines and ground support service providers to achieve their sustainability and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions targets.