EPS Diesel Test Facility Nears Completion

Engineered Propulsion Systems (EPS) is getting close to completing a testing facility at its headquarters in New Richmond, Wisconsin, that will aid in the process of achieving certification for its Graflight V-8 diesel engine. The facility will be used for engine testing, inspection, assembly and STC work.

Once the new facility is completed, which is expected at some point next month, the company will be able to work on three engines at a time. There will also be a space outside the building where propeller tests, engine durability tests and other climate/environmental tests will be conducted.

Last fall the company flew the engine for more than 70 hours in a revived Air Force altitude chamber where it was subjected to simulated altitudes up to 30,000 feet. The tests were intended to affirm the mechanical design configuration through the use of EPS' proprietary Electronic Engine Control Unit (EECU).

“The engine responded in normal parameters at all altitudes up to 30,000 feet,” said Michael Fuchs, EPS’ CEO.

The Graflight V-8 engine is designed around a range of 320 to 420 horsepower for single- and twin-piston airplanes. EPS claims the engine will produce 30 percent less CO2 than comparable avgas engines and 17 percent less compared with diesel engines of similar power output.

EPS is targeting a 3,000-hour TBO for the engine. Certification is expected by the end of the year.