Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the electrical power source (AC or DC) of helicopters ?
Todays aircraft usually all use AC power, 115 volts, 3 phase,(either four wire, or three wire.) 400 cycle. Higher voltage allows less current, smaller wire, less weight, less heat. And because we live in the world of electronics today, AC is much better to control, but some equipment such as lights and some instruments still best use DC. (26volts). Therefore, most helicopters use both AC and DC. The accessory section of the x-msn (the transmission) drives AC generators which power all AC systems through a series of buses, etc.... and some of that energy is converted into DC through converters and they also have an all-purpose battery much like that of a car, for using electrical systems during system checks, and little applications without having to start and run the A.P.U. (auxiliary power unit) or engines.
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