EPS Finalizes Graflight 8 Diesel Engine Design

Engineered Propulsion Systems of Wisconsin has reached the final stage of design for its Graflight 8 diesel engine, freezing the design in preparation for certification.

“That does not mean that we will not introduce new elements or refinements in the engine as technologies evolve in the future,” said EPS CEO Michael Fuchs. “Indeed, we have already incorporated a significant number of innovations in the Graflight 8, but now it’s time to address the conformity process, and for that we lock the design, knowing we have reached the current limits of refinement.”

The Graflight 8 is designed for use in single-engine and light twin piston airplanes, light helicopters, drones and boats, producing 320 to 420 horsepower. Being a diesel the engine is very fuel efficient, and with new technologies EPS has taken fuel efficiency even further. The company claims a 15 percent fuel savings over comparable diesel engines and an approximate 40 percent savings in the fuel burn compared with Avgas-burning engines.

Because of the materials used in the engine, the company also expects a 3,000-hour TBO, providing additional cost savings to customers.

The engine has been tested in Mojave, California, where it has been mounted to a Cirrus SR22 and flown by none other than Dick Rutan. EPS plans to achieve certification and begin delivering the new diesel engine toward the end of next year.