05/10/2021 | Press release

Rheinmetall demonstrates once again its technological capabilities with the world’s first fully electric air start unit

Rheinmetall is introducing the world’s first fully electric air start unit, the Rheinmetall eMSU, at the 2021 International GSE Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, on 5-7 October 2021.

The aviation industry is seeking significantly lower emission levels and healthier air quality at airports. The Rheinmetall eMSU is one part of this worldwide effort to reduce the carbon footprint of airports, to meet new emission standards, and improve air quality and working conditions for ground support teams.

Powerful, reliable and efficient

The fully electric Rheinmetall eMSU is powered 100% by lithium-ion battery packs that ensure maximum running time and minimal energy loss. It starts aircraft with zero emissions. The eMSU provides four starts on a single charge and can be charged in as little as one hour when plugged into a high-voltage DC charger. It can be charged from a regular power grid interface or any electric vehicle charging station.

The Rheinmetall eMSU requires no warm-up or cool-down phase, assuring more efficient starts. Designed to thrive in harsh conditions, the eMSU features an integrated cooling system that keeps temperatures stable and prevents battery damage. The eMSU is operated through an intuitive touchscreen panel for settings and with real buttons for critical operations—a must for gloved operators. Another great feature of the eMSU is its increased airflow capability, with a 250ppm bleed air output, for starting bigger engines.

Cost-efficient and eco-friendly

Compared to a standard diesel air start unit, the new Rheinmetall eMSU is remarkably low-maintenance and operates much more reliably in all weather conditions. It eliminates fuel consumption costs, resulting in financial savings as well as benefitting the environment. The eMSU meets the most stringent emission restrictions in force today, plus even stricter ones that are being planned.

Commitment to high-quality innovation

Rheinmetall Canada is committed to helping its clients achieve their goals: to have more sustainable airports with better working conditions for ground support staff. Building on the great success of its turbine air start unit, which enjoys a global reputation for dependability and is virtually maintenance-free, Rheinmetall has taken these virtues to an even higher level in the new eMSU.

Visit Rheinmetall’s unmissable booth at the GSE Expo in Las Vegas to learn more about the many advantages of this new zero-emission air start unit.

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