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Wildfire photo

Hoverflyer 580 video

Hoverflyer 580 photo

Wildfire full info specification

General Description

The Wildfire series represent the latest advances in small amphibious hovercraft. The design is leading edge new technology and incorporates the latest commercially available and appropriate high technology materials and manufacturing techniques for advanced performance. It is easily operated and maintained by its owners. The Wildfire is adaptive to many different tasks. The large doors provide full access for large and difficult loads and full protection and comfort for passengers when closed. For extreme loads or open top duties the doors may be completely removed. The Wildfire is designed to operate and provide full comfort for it’s passengers in a wide variety of climatic conditions ranging from the hottest tropics to the extreme cold of the polar artic regions.

The Wildfire has an exceptionally good payload to size ratio allowing good load capability and remaining easily transportable. It can fit within a shipping container and is easily transported on a special quick launch trailer. The Wildfire is built to a very high standard and is capable of gaining classification with most survey societies.

There is nothing else like the Wildfire Hovercraft.

Technical Details Table

Technical Details, Descriptions

Classification

Construction may be carried out according to:

1. Australian Uniform Shipping Laws, “Class 1E”
2. New Zealand Maritime Rules Part 40F, “Class 2 light hovercraft”
3. Canadian ACV Safety Certification Standard TP5579

Hull and Superstructure

The hull is resin infusion moulded with reinforcement from non-woven E-glass fibreglass reinforcements and Divinycell® cores for increased panel stiffness. This method of construction is lightweight while retaining excellent strength and stiffness. Thermal and sound isolation properties are excellent for this construction system. All laminating is conducted with active quality control procedures to ensure the highest quality. The hull construction complies with or exceeds the Australian U.S.L. and other international survey society requirements. The hull is built in two parts and bonded together with separate sealed buoyancy compartments for maximum safety. Under-hull moulded Urethane landing pads are fitted for hull protection.

Four lifting ‘U-bolts’ are mounted through the deck and internally strengthened. A towing eye is fitted to the bow and to the stern. There are four cleats mounted to the deck.

Accommodation

Cockpit

The cockpit sides are smooth finish fibreglass gel-coat and the floor is painted with a non-skid finish. There is a transverse beam across under the front seats to provide hull structure and a mounting for the front side-by-side seats. This cross beam incorporates three dry storage lockers. Lockers are located in each side and to the rear of the cockpit for dry storage (4 in total). The engine is accessed through a hatch at the rear of the cockpit. An external locker is fitted for storage of the anchor and dirty ropes.

Cabin

The cabin is constructed of a front fixed part, a reinforced transverse frame (to provide rollover protection) and a longitudinal roof beam for further occupant protections and support for the large doors. The two large doors are top hinged and open ‘gull-wing’ style. They normally remain fixed but may be easily detached withdrawing the spring-loaded hinge pins. The longitudinal roof beam is normally left fixed but it may be unbolted to accommodate unusually large or awkward loads.

The standard interior trim is a good balance between comfort and practical marine type. Luxury or utility trims may be specified by the customer.

Glazing

The front windscreen is custom laminated from chemically toughened glass and PVB laminate Special attention has been paid to conform to the Lloyds class pressure loadings. The front screen has wipers and washers fitted. The side windows are also made from laminated safetyglass and have windscreen wipers and washers fitted. Glazing to the doors is acrylic for light weight and toughness. All glazing is bonded with polyurethane adhesive sealant.

Seating

Seating arrangements may optionally be varied but are normally;

1. Front row seating for the driver’s and front passenger.
2. The second row of seats accommodates two passengers and is removable.
3. The third row of seats accommodates two passengers and is removable.
4. The fourth row (rear) of seats accommodates three passengers and is removable.

Total seating capacity is variable, 1-crew plus 8-passengers. With seats removed the floor provides a flat work space.
A bilge pump is fitted into a recess at the rear of the cockpit for water removal. A large diameter (38mm) ‘drain-bung’ is also fitted which can be removed for quick water drainage while washing out when the hovercraft is on hard standing.

Engine

The thrust engine is a Subaru model EJ25 liquid cooled horizontally opposed four cylinder petrol engine of 2500cc with overhead camshafts, fuel injection, electric starting; stainless steel exhaust system; remote air and oil filter assemblies. This engine is normally rated at 135kW (180hp) at 6000 rpm but the rating is reduced to 112kW (150hp) at a maximum of 5100 rpm for longer engine life. The performance is very spirited at this rating. Cruising engine speed is between 3400 to 4400 rpm (30% to 65% of maximum power).

A coolant radiator and a lubricating-oil cooler keep the engine cool. The engine coolant circulates through a radiator mounted to the starboard side of the thrust ducting. The engine oil-cooler is incorporated in the radiator assembly. Cold air is drawn in from the outer side of the thrust ducting, passes through the radiator and cooler and is discharged into the negative pressure area near the propeller. When the engine is idling and the propeller is not turning the air is assisted to move by a thermostatically controlled electric fan. The oil cooler reduces the oil temperature, which greatly helps with increasing the engine life and extends time between oil changes.

The Subaru EJ25 engines are imported from Japan and are re-built to exacting specifications for use in the Wildfire hovercraft.

Exhaust Systems

The engine exhaust system is manufactured entirely from stainless steel. An exhaust-air ejector system is incorporated to remove excess heat from the exhaust ducting and to lower the exhaust gas temperature for safety of personnel.

Variable Pitch Propeller

The ‘In-Flight-Adjustable’ (IFA) propeller is custom made for the Wildfire and is fully (in-flight) pitch adjustable to provide optimal pitch setting for all operating conditions and additionally reverse thrust capability. There are 5 blades, precision moulded from Carbon-Fibre and Epoxy resin and post-cured at high temperature to obtain consistent high tensile strength. The abrading surfaces of the blades are protected with moulded on polyurethane for maximum service life. The hub is high tensile marine grade aluminium and the blade sockets are stainless steel. Dissimilar metals are electrically isolated to minimise corrosion. The pitch control actuator is operated from the driving position where there is a position feed back indicator. The propeller system is designed to provide a long life in a salt-water environment.

A stainless steel wire guard protects the propeller. The propeller guard is mounted to the ducting.

Propulsion Transmission System

An automatic clutch is fitted directly to the rear of the engine. The clutch automatically disengages the engine at idle speed to stop the propeller. This provides added safety for bystanders and also reduces shock loading on the transmission during engine starting and stopping. A toothed belt provides positive power transmission from the engine shaft to the propeller shaft. The propeller shaft is firmly supported on two self-aligning and sealed ball bearing units within the transmission housing. The engine and transmission assemblies are isolated for smooth and quiet operation.

Lift Fan

The lift fan is a mixed-flow type for maximum efficiency and minimum noise. Air is drawn in through the vents in the bonnet, passes through the fan and is expelled directly into the skirt bag. The fan is manufactured from carbon fibre and epoxy resin. A moulded bonnet provides protection, sound absorption and an attractive appearance.

Lift Transmission

The lift fan is directly mounted to the hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor is provided by oil from a pump mounted to the engine. The pump is of the variable displacement type and is controlled automatically to keep the lift fan running at a constant speed largely independent of the engine speed. The fan speed may be easily changed at any time by the pilot to meet different lift air requirements during different operating modes. This is a unique system which is easily controlled and allows efficient use of available power by applying only what is necessary to meet lifting requirements and leaving all other available power for thrust. All filtration and cooling is suitable for tropical (+40oC) to arctic (-35oC) operation in salt water and dusty conditions.

Skirt

The skirt is a fully pressurised tapered bag and finger system. The bag pressure is higher than the cushion pressure and is regulated by control orifices in the bag inner membrane. This system has been used on the largest and fastest commercial and military hovercraft for many years and is well proven to be the most stable and dynamically efficient skirt system available for amphibious hovercraft today. The skirt is computer cut for consistent and exact fitting to the hull.

The skirt is manufactured from Urethane coated Nylon fabric. Urethane is extremely tough and provides considerably greater resistance to abrasion and tearing compared with other fabric types commonly used on other hovercraft. All joints are R.F. welded for exceptional strength.

Urethanes have good low temperature flexibility (down to -35 °C) and are suitable for use in very cold areas. Normal colour is black with other colours available to special order.

Controls

The controls are simple and easily managed. A ‘control mixed’ is hand controlled in similar fashion to steering a car but with added movements for pitch and roll control. This is connected to the rudder and the elevators via control cables and hydraulic power assisted servos. A foot pedal and a dash mounted vernier control the thrust engine throttle according to the choice of the operator. The lift fan is controlled by a rotary knob mounted on the dash board.

Instrumentation

Hydraulic System

Thrust Engine

Other Instrumentation

Electrical System

System voltage is nominally 12 volts DC. The normal voltage range is 10.5 volts to 14.6 volts. The engine normally has an 85-amp alternator but higher outputs are available.

Batteries

There is normally one battery of 65 Ah capacity fitted with a single pole isolator switch. It is optionally possible to have two batteries configured as a separate starting battery and a separate ‘house’ battery for operating electronics. The batteries are charged through a voltage sensitive relay thus ensuring full charge to both batteries and no accidental discharge of one battery from the other battery. In emergencies the batteries may be paralleled. Other configurations are possible with automatic charging protection.

Protection

The electrical system is based upon the ‘EmpirBus’ electrical control and protection system. Most switchable services (lights, pumps, fans, wiper synchronisation etc) are operated from programmable controllers which provide a multitude of functions and fault warnings. The system can be custom programmed to meet with special operator needs if required.

All electrical cable is marine type tinned copper multi-strand cable with V95°C (or better) PVC insulation. All terminations in exposed areas are crimped and covered with heat shrinking and hot-melt insulation for corrosion protection. Exposed cable runs are protected in conduits. All circuits are clearly marked with a matching circuit diagram in the operating manual.

The instruments are marine type and rated splash proof from the viewing side. Wherever possible all fittings are salt waterproof.

Lighting

All navigation lights are of ‘Aquasignal’ series 20 type and comply with IMO recommendations. In addition a flashing orange beacon is mounted atop the thrust duct according to the CAA requirements for hovercraft.

In addition to the navigation lights, there are optionally two 55-watt spot lights available. Inside the cabin are 4-LED work lights with dimmable white or red light output. Beside the cabin door is a 15 Amp power outlet suitable for connecting a high-powered spotlight or other auxiliary device.

Fuel System

There are two fuel tanks, each of approximately 50 litres and mounted to each side of the cockpit. The fuel tanks are constructed of welded aluminium and pressure tested according to class rules. All fuel piping (apart from short flexible elements near the engine) is of copper pipe.

A safety shut off valve is mounted to each tank. An in-tank mounted electric fuel pump and filter assembly supplies fuel to the engine from each tank. The fuel gauge sender is incorporated into the in-tank pump/filter assembly. Preferred fuel type is standard unleaded automotive petrol.

Fire Safety

The thrust engine room ‘hot zone’ is fitted with a fixed dry powder type smothering system that
can be activated from outside the engine room. An additional portable dry powder extinguisher
is recessed into the cockpit side. The engine room is protected in hot areas by stainless steel
heat shields. The stainless steel exhaust system is ceramic coated and fitted with heat shields
to reduce heat radiation and increase safety. The engine air intake is flash-back protected.

Storage

A vinyl cover is optionally available to protect the hovercraft topsides.

Transport

The Wildfire is road transportable on a suitable trailer within a total width of 2.5 metres. A custom built trailer is optionally available. The custom built trailer has a tilting deck, winch system and folding side barriers to facilitate loading and un-loading of the hovercraft without assistance from a second party. For additional information please request the separate trailer specification sheet.

For international shipping the Wildfire may be loaded into a standard 40ft shipping container or onto a 40ft flat rack with the trailer.

Video

First video Pioneer MK3

Finally came the first video-awaited launches Pioneer mk3 manufactured by AirLift Hovercraft. Designed specifically for the tourism and transport sectors, Pioneer mk3 is amphibians and comfortable vehicle for 25 passenger seats and 1-place crew. Pioneer Mk3 is a competitive-capable, reliable and dynamic vehicle among the existing analogs. This video confirms this fact.

Second video Pioneer MK3 (Australia)

In this video well show movement on the water and on land, control and maneuverability of the ship. Also show control system with vertical and horizontal rudders.

New видео с Pioneer Mk3 (Details)

This video demonstrates Hovercraft Pioneer MK3 production company Airlift Hovercraft. A closer look shows the cockpit, chassis, engines, etc.

Hovercraft Pioneer MK2 by Airlift Hovercraft (Australia)

Company Christy Hovercraft presents: boat hovercraft Pioneer MK2 from Airlift Hovercraft (Australia).

Capacity of 20 persons, big, powerful boat, hovercraft can become an indispensable assistant in your business either whether tourism, passenger transport, and even agriculture.

Another video with Hovercraft Pioneer MK2 by Airlift Hovercraft (Australia)

This big and powerful boat, all-road vehicle on an air cushion can become a reliable assistant in any of your business.

Photo

Pioneer MK3 specification full info

General Description

The Pioneer Mk3 hovercraft is an amphibious hovercraft designed to carry 25 passengers or 2 tonnes payload + 1-crew. The air-conditioned cabin provides comfortable seating and good visibility for the passengers and crew. The Pioneer Mk3 is powered by two Steyr M16 engines of 160kW each and will cruise comfortably at 35 knots on water and higher on hard surfaces.

The Pioneer Mk3 follows the well proven format of the very successful Surveyor and Pioneer series of designs introduced 1986 and incorporates many incremental improvements, resulting in an outstanding new design.

Construction is in accordance with Australian USL, British Hovercraft Safety Requirements (BHSR), Transport Canada (TP5579), Lloyds HSSC rules and other class requirements.

Technical Details Table

Technical Details, Descriptions

Classification

Classification may be carried out according to:

1. Australian Uniform Shipping Laws, “Class 1D” (available now)
2. Lloyds Register of Shipping (available soon)

Hull and Superstructure

The hull is moulded with reinforcement from Epoxy resin and non-woven E-glass fibreglass reinforcements and Divinycell® cores for increased panel stiffness. This method of construction is lightweight while retaining excellent strength and stiffness. Thermal and sound isolation properties are excellent for this construction system. All laminating is conducted within an ISO 9001 certified environment with active quality control procedures to ensure the highest quality. The hull construction complies with or exceeds the Australian U.S.L., HSSC and other international survey society requirements. Seat fixing strong points are moulded directly into the hull. Under-hull moulded Urethane landing pads are fitted for hull protection.

Four lifting ‘U-bolts’ are mounted through the deck and internally strengthened. A towing eye is fitted to the bow and to the stern. There are eight cleats mounted to the deck (separate to lifting eyes) for general mooring duties.

Cabin

The cabin sides and ceiling are finished in fire retardant fabric to owner choice. The floor is in gelcoat finish or covered with heavy duty vinyl to customer choice.

The two large doors are top hinged and open ‘gull-wing’ style. Fold out steps are fitted to each gangway. The steps and the doors may optionally be fitted with pneumatic openers enabling open and shut operation from the driver position.

Glazing:

All windows are custom manufactured from laminated safety glass. The front screen and front quarter windows have wipers and washers fitted (total of 5). All glazing is bonded with polyurethane adhesive sealant.

Seating:

Longitudinal seat mounting rails (aircraft style) are incorporated into the cabin floor so the seating arrangements may be varied according to demand. The seats are UES Technoseat style with medium backs, rear mounted brochure holders, under-mounted life jacket containers and easily replaceable covers with hard wearing fire retardant fabric to owner choice.

Total seating capacity is variable, 1-crew plus 25-passengers. With seats removed the floor provides a flat work space and the seat mounting rails can be used for securing cargo.

A bilge pump is fitted into a recess at the rear of the cockpit for water removal. A large diameter (38mm) ‘drain-bung’ is also fitted in the rear floor area to facilitate washing out of the cabin.

Engines

Power is provided by two units of Steyr M16 Turbo Intercooled diesel engines. These engines produce ample power of 160kW each and are organised for complete redundancy enabling the Pioneer to return to base whilst operating on only one engine. All controls, transmission, fuel, cooling, exhaust, power generation and auxiliary systems are duplicated for complete redundancy.

http://www.steyr-motors.com/products/products.htm

Exhaust Systems

The engines exhausts are ducted through extremely quiet ‘Cowl’ type mufflers and eject to the rear via the radiator cooling air discharge ducting. This arrangement keeps the exhaust gasses enclosed in the radiator exhaust air-stream until it is well clear of the craft bodywork, thereby reducing the craft cleaning requirements. All contactable hot surfaces are lagged for safety.

Propeller

There are two in-flight pitch adjustable ducted propellers of 1400mm diameter X 5 blades. The propeller blades are precision moulded from Carbon-Fibre and Epoxy resin and are post-cured at high temperature to obtain consistent high tensile strength. The propellers provide full in-flight pitch control and reversing. The pitching mechanism is controller by the operator through the PLC to ensure the optimum angle relationship to the engine speed thus ensuring the best of performance and economy whilst protecting the engines from overloading. Manual over-ride with priority to engine speed or pitch angle is available. Emergency ‘get you home’ manual setting is also available.

Propulsion Transmission System

An automatic clutch is fitted directly to the rear of the engine. The clutch automatically disengages the engine at idle speed to stop the propellers. This provides added safety for bystanders and also reduces shock loading on the transmission during engine starting and stopping. Toothed belts provide positive power transmission from the engine shaft to the propeller shaft. The propeller shaft is firmly supported by self-aligning bearing units within the transmission housing.

Lift Fan

The lift fan was designed and developed specifically for this hovercraft. It is a mixed flow type and provides maximum efficiency and minimum noise along with large performance reserves while running at a relatively slow speed. The lift fan is moulded from Epoxy resin and Carbon fibre and the fan stator blades are moulded from epoxy resin and glass fibre.

Lift Fan Transmission

The lift fan is mounted to a Rexroth bent-axis hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor is provided by oil from the pumps mounted on the engines. The pumps are of the variable displacement type and are controlled automatically by the PLC to a pre-set pressure which keeps the lift fans running at constant output independently of the engines speed. The pre-set speed may be easily varied at any time by the pilot for different operating modes. This is a unique system which is easily controlled and allows efficient use of available power by applying only what is necessary to meet lifting requirements and leaving all other available power for thrust.

Apart from the single fan motor, all other parts of the hydraulic system are duplicated and able to operate alone, thus providing the best possible redundancy of operation. Full lift power is available via either pump alone. Two pumps together have a relatively easy task leading to long component life.

All hydraulic filtration to 5 Mm and cooling is suitable for tropical (+40oC) to arctic (-35oC) operation in salt water and dusty conditions.

Skirt

The skirt is a fully pressurised tapered bag and finger system. The bag pressure is higher than thecushion pressure and is regulated by control orifices in the bag inner membrane. This system is well proven to be the most stable and dynamically efficient skirt system available for amphibious hovercraft today. The skirt is CNC cut for consistent and exact fitting to the hull.

The skirt is manufactured from Urethane coated Nylon fabric. Urethane is extremely tough and provides considerably greater resistance to abrasion and tearing compared with other fabric types commonly used on other hovercraft. All joints are R.F. welded for exceptional strength. Urethanes have good low temperature flexibility (down to -35 °C) and are suitable for use in very cold areas. Colour is normally black but many colours optionally available.

Controls

The controls are simple and easily managed. Turning, Pitching and Rolling the Pioneer is easily accomplished by a single joystick mounted to the pilot’s seat. The speed of each engine and the pitch angle of the respective propeller are jointly controlled by a single lever, in similar fashion to the typical boat engine speed lever…

• Lever to central position is engine idle and no pitch to the propeller.
• Move the lever forward increases both engine speed and propeller pitch until the combination arrives at the most economical cruising point. Further forward movement of the lever increases engine speed and reduces pitch angle to provide maximum thrust.
• The same lever mover to the rear of the central position repeats the same sequence but with the propeller angle going into reverse pitch.

The system has two levers, one for each engine and propeller combination. The operation of the lever is selectable from 4 standard programs…

1. Automatic and Independent. Operation as described above but with the Port and Starb’d sides independent of each other. This will allow forward thrust on one side and reverse thrust on the other side. Most suitable for manoeuvring.
2. Automatic and Synchronised. Similar to above but with both engines and propellers in synchronisation. Most suitable for cruising.
3. Manual – Engine priority. When switched to this mode the levers control only the engine speed. Propellers stay at the last set point. Useful for running engines through speed range with the propellers set to neutral pitch.
4. Manual – Propeller priority. When switched to this model the levers control only the propeller pitch angle. The engines stay at the last set speed. Useful for manoeuvring.

All primary controls and most secondary controls are linked through the Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC’s). This arrangement provides the most comprehensive set of controls possible whilst at the same time providing a very simple operator interface. Additionally the PLC system provides warning, protection and logging systems that would be impossible otherwise. The complete PLC system, power supplies and controls are duplicated to provide redundancy and compliance with class rules. The PLC system is made up of internationally available and well recognised industrial components such as Rexroth, Siemens, Omron etc.

Instrumentation and Indicators

Display on 17” Touch screen console

Hydraulic System

Thrust Engines

Other Instrumentation

Electrical System

System voltage is nominally 24 volts DC. The normal voltage range is 21 volts to 28 volts. Each engine has a 100-amp alternator charging one dedicated bank of batteries per engine.

Batteries

Each engine has one starting battery bank compromised of two 12 volt batteries in series to provide the nominal 24 volts for the starting system. All batteries are connected and fused through remotely operated BEP isolators according to class rules. An additional remotely controlled isolator provides parallel connection of the port and stb’d battery banks for the emergency starting of either engine.

An additional 12 volt emergency radio battery is mounted under the dashboard and charged from both/either starting battery bank via electronic remote regulators.

An automatic battery control system manages the batteries and reports through the ModBus to the PLC control system to provide information and warnings of condition, voltage and temperature. This prevents over-charging, discharge beyond pre-set limits, over-temperature and warns of impending battery fault conditions such as a failing cell.

Protection

Circuit breakers, PLC controls and fuses are installed according to class rules. All electrical cable is marine type tinned copper multi-strand cable with V95°C (or better) low halogen insulation. All terminations in exposed areas are crimped and covered with heat shrinking and hot-melt insulation for corrosion protection. Exposed cable runs are protected in conduits. Circuits are clearly marked with an engraved switch panel and a matching circuit diagram in the operating manual.

Lighting

All navigation lights are of ‘Aquasignal’ series 20 type and comply with IMO recommendations. In addition a flashing orange beacon is mounted atop the thrust cabin according to the British CAA requirements for hovercraft.

Inside the cabin is a low powered work light with selectable white or red light for map reading. Main cabin lighting is provided by dimmable LED strip lighting. Entrance and steps are illuminated by LED lights. Beside the cabin doors are 15 Amp power outlets suitable for connecting a highpowered spotlight or other auxiliary device.

A directionally adjustable spot light is optionally mounted to the roof.

Fuel System

There are two fuel tanks, each of approximately 100 litres and mounted to each side of the cockpit. The fuel tanks are formed by flexible bladders mounted inside compartments. All fuel piping (apart from short flexible elements near the engine) is of copper pipe. A safety shut off valve is mounted to each tank. Electric fuel pumps and filter assemblies supply fuel to each engine. An ultrasonic fuel gauge sender is incorporated into each tank space and linked directly to the PLC to enable comprehensive fuel management reporting. Preferred fuel type is standard automotive diesel.

Fuel Ballast System

There are two fuel tanks, each of approximately 250 litres. One mounted in the bow area and one mounted in the stern area. Normal fuel ballast load is 150 to 200 litres. A high-flow reversible fuel pump is fitted for quick transfer of the fuel forward or aft to provide static trimming of the loaded craft. This relieves the dynamic control surfaces of static trimming load and increases the overall craft efficiency.

Fire Safety

A fire detection heat sensor is mounted in the engine room and connected to an alarm at the control position. The thrust engine room is fitted with a fixed CO2 type smothering system that can be activated from the control position. Additional portable CO2 type extinguishers are mounted inside the cabin. Areas of the engine room that are affected by radiant heat are shielded by stainless steel heat shields. The exhaust system is lagged and shielded to reduce heat radiation and increase safety.

Lifting

There are four lifting attachment points protruding from the deck upper surface enabling connection with cranes and other lifting tackle. A portable gantry is optionally available.

Computer generated images representing the general appearance.

NB: The above specifications pertaining to performance are based on a properly trimmed and maintained craft with a
competent operator. These specifications are subject to change as improvements are made and should only be
used as a guide unless specifically annexed to a build contract and signed by all parties to that contract.
Specifications may also be varied from time to time by agreement between the parties involved. This document is
based upon pre-production specifications of May 2008.

Airlift Hovercraft

Capturing the very essence of elegance, performance and simplicity in every design, Airlift Hovercraft is a pioneer in the development of small to medium sized hovercraft for the world stage.

By continually exploring and mastering new technology, materials and production techniques, we ensure every craft is built with superior quality and performance in mind. And with a range of hovercraft to suit diverse environments, uses and conditions, it’s clear our success stems from years of industry experience and providing only excellence in service…

Hoverflyer 580 technical specification and description

Description

The high quality build and spirited performance of the HoverFlyer 580 place it top of the class in this size range. Originating from the H560, first built in 1989, the HoverFlyer 580 has been continuously improved in styling, payload and performance.

The HoverFlyer series have worked for many thousands of hours in many diverse areas and extreme
climates and have been applied to many varied tasks such as flood rescue, beach patrol, seismic surveying, aquaculture, fishing, aquatic-weed spraying, gold prospecting, flood bound-stock feeding, oil rig support, dive tender, commercial water taxi and pleasure craft to mention a few.

Technical Details

Length	5.80 metres
Width	2.35 metres
Cockpit length	3.1 metres
Cockpit width	1.5 metres
Cushion height	350mm front, 320mm rear
Max recommend speed	35 knots on smooth water
	40 knots on smooth hard surface
	50 knots on ice
Cruising speed	25 to 30 knots
	Light – 25 kts gusting to 30 kts
Crew	1 operator/pilot
Accommodation	5-6 Passengers in survey
	6-7 non-survey
Payload	600 kg
Overload Payload	700 kg (reduced performance)
Lift engine	Briggs & Stratton Vee Twin, OHV, air-cooled, 15kW (20 hp).
Thrust engine	Subaru EJ22, DOHC, EFI, at 120kW (160hp).
Fuel/Petrol	Petrol
Hull construction	Hand laid non-woven E-glass/ PVC foam core.
Skirt type	Pressurised bag and fingers
Area of operation	All USL class E waters

Unique Features

• Designed and built to international survey standards without compromise.
• Tough and Durable well proven design for long life in adverse working conditions.
• Low fuel consumption.
• Exceptional payload capacity.
• Very stable while floating. High free-board for safety.
• High obstacle clearance with the pressurised bag and finger skirt combination.
• Simple and effective mechanical equipment, easy maintenance.
• Easy transport on quick launch.
• Training available and crew learn easily.

Hull and Superstructure

The hull is moulded from fibre reinforced resin and PVC foam sandwich vacuum formed into female moulds. Bi-axial fibreglass reinforcements are used in the plastic skins. This method of construction is lightweight while retaining excellent strength and stiffness. Thermal and sound isolation properties are excellent for this construction system. All laminating is conducted with active quality control procedures to ensure the highest quality. The hull construction complies with or exceeds the Australian U.S.L., and Canada Transport TP5579. The hull is built in two parts and bonded together with sealed buoyancy compartments for maximum safety. Seat bases are moulded directly into the hull and provide dry storage spaces underneath. A toughened glass windshield is fitted around the front of the cockpit.

Thrust Engine

The thrust engine is a Subaru model EJ25 liquid cooled four cylinder petrol engine of 2500cc, horizontally opposed four stroke with overhead camshafts, fuel injection, electric starting; stainless steel with ceramic coating exhaust system; remote air filter assembly. Cruising engine speed is between 3200 to 4000 rpm (55% to 70% of maximum power). This engine is rated at 120kW (160hp) at 5600. The performance is very spirited at this rating. The engine is mounted directly to the transmission housing thereby assuring correct alignment with the other transmission components.

The engine coolant circulates through a radiator mounted to the starboard side of the thrust ducting. Air for cooling the radiator is drawn in from the outer side of the thrust ducting and discharged into the negative pressure area in front of the propeller. When the engine is idling and the propeller is not turning the air is assisted to move by a thermostatically controlled electric fan. An oil to water heat exchanger fitted underneath the oil filter provides additional cooling. This ensures lowered oil temperatures for increased engine life.

The Subaru EJ25 engines are imported from Japan and then re-manufactured for hovercraft application and tuning specifications. When the engines are fitted into the hovercraft they are fully warranted. Sensors are fitted to detect oil pressure and water temperature and are connected to a flashing light on the dashboard.

A more economical Subaru EJ22 engine is optionally available. Power is 90kW and performance slightly less but still more than adequate.

Propulsion Transmission System

An automatic clutch is fitted directly to the rear of the engine. The clutch automatically dis-engages the engine at idle speed to allow the propeller to stop. This provides added safety for by-standers and also reduces shock loading on the transmission during engine starting and stopping. The clutch drum is mounted directly to a toothed pulley, which drives a toothed belt. The propeller shaft is firmly supported on two selfaligning sealed ball bearing units within the fabricated aluminium transmission housing. The complete engine and transmission assembly is unitised and mounted to the hull via rubber vibration isolators for smooth and quiet operation.

Propeller

The propeller is to the ‘Scharnhorst’ design, especially developed for the HoverFlyer 580. The 5-blade
propeller is bolted directly to the rear of the propeller shaft and is easily removable for periodic maintenance.

The propeller blades are precision moulded from Carbon-Fibre and Epoxy resin and are post-cured at high temperature to obtain consistent high tensile strength. A polyurethane leading edge is cast onto the blade for erosion protection. The standard propeller hubs provide round adjustable pitch of the blades to suit different operating altitudes and temperatures for each operating location. An in-flight pitch adjustable and reversible propeller is available for ultimate control. A stainless steel wire propeller safety guard is mounted to the ducting.

Lift System

Briggs & Stratton 15kW (20 H.P.) air cooled twin-cylinder with electric starting; internal oil reservoir; gear driven oil circulation pump; replaceable external oil filter cartridge; stainless steel exhaust system. Normal running speed is 2900 to 3400 R.P.M.

Air is drawn in through the vents in the bonnet and expelled directly downwards into the skirt bag. The bonnet provides safety protection, sound absorption and an attractive appearance. The lift fan is a single stage, vertical downwards, axial flow type, mounted directly to the engine crankshaft.

Controls

The controls are simple and easily managed. A hydraulic helm pump and hand-wheel is connected to the rudders for steering. The thrust engine is controlled by both a foot throttle pedal and a dash mounted vernier control according to the choice of the operator. The lift engine is controlled by a dash mounted vernier control.

Skirt

The skirt is a fully pressurised tapered bag and finger system. The bag pressure is higher than the cushion pressure and is regulated by control orifices in the bag inner membrane. The bag is CNC cut from Urethane coated Nylon and R.F. welded. The fingers are from Urethane coated Nylon and are bolted on with Nylon fasteners and are easily changed without lifting the craft. This provides the most stable and dynamically efficient skirt system available.

Electrical System

System voltage is nominally 12 volts DC. The battery has an isolator according to international survey class standards. Battery charging is from a 14V 35A alternator mounted to the thrust engine. A dual battery installation is optionally available.

All electrical cable is tinned copper multi-strand wire with V95 deg C PVC insulation. Exposed terminations are additionally protected with shrink-wrapped sleeves. Exposed cable runs are protected in conduits.

Circuits are clearly marked and a circuit diagram is included in the operating manual for easy identification.

Lighting

All navigation lights are of ‘Aquasignal’ series 20 type and comply with international navigation
recommendations. In addition a flashing beacon is mounted atop the thrust duct according to the CAA – BHSR requirements for hovercraft.

Instruments

All instruments are of the marine type and sealed to enable washing down.

Tachometer, lift engine	Tachometer, thrust engine
Oil pressure, lift engine	Oil pressure, thrust engine
Hour-meter	Coolant temperature, thrust engine
Voltmeter	Coolant temp light, thrust engine
Low oil pressure light, lift engine	Low oil pressure light, thrust engine
2-Fuel tank contents gauges	Magnetic compass
Indicator lights for pumps, nav lights fans etc.

Fire Safety

The engine room ‘hot zone’ is fitted with a fixed Dry-Powder smothering system that can be activated from outside the engine room according to international survey class standards. An additional portable Dry-Powder extinguisher is located in a cockpit locker. The engine room is protected in hot areas by stainless steel heat shields. The stainless steel exhaust system is ceramic coated to reduce heat radiation and increase safety. All fuel piping apart from short flexible elements near the engine is of copper pipe and an automatic safety shut off system is controlled from the cockpit. The engine air intake is fire protected.

Fuel System

There are two fuel tanks, each of 42 litres capacity. The fuel tanks are constructed of welded aluminium and pressure tested according to international survey class rules. Fuel piping is copper in fixed areas and stainless braided hose for flexible elements. An electric fuel pump, non-return valve, electric safety shut-off valve and contents gauge sender is fitted into each fuel tank. The fuel supply may be selected from the control position for ‘port’, ‘starboard’ or ‘both’ supply. The fuel tank compartment is sealed from all other spaces, pressure ventilated and lined with a fire retardant coating.

Optional Accessories

• In-flight adjustable pitch and reversible pitching propeller (IFA Prop).
• Comprehensive electronic navigation and communications packages.
• Storage cover, short version clips around duct and top of windscreen.
• Storage cover, complete version, covers complete deck to top of skirt.
• Road trailer, aluminium tilt deck for quick launch and recovery.
• Reinforced floor and tie downs for freight or special equipment.
• Electronic fume detector.
• Safety bar.
• Spotlights.
• Transportable lifting gantry.
• Australian USL Survey documentation.
• Operator training.

The above specifications pertaining to performance are based on a properly trimmed and maintained craft with a competent operator. These specifications are subject to change as improvements are made and should be used as a guide only, more complete and exact specifications are issued for contractual purposes once customer’s requirements are fully known.