Bell EDAT, with a Safran electrical system, named "Best of What's New" in Aerospace

Unveiled in February 2020, Bell’s Electrically Distributed Anti-Torque (EDAT) system consists of four small fans embedded in the tail rotor shroud of a helicopter, in a two-by-two pattern. Each propeller contains four blades and each is powered by its own ENGINeUS^TM electric motor, with a capacity of 35 kW. Generators, driven by the helicopter turbine engine, supply electrical energy. Energy is distributed and regulated by electronics and a distribution box. Safran Electrical & Power is supplying the electrical system – the generators, electronics and the distribution box – as well as the four electric motors.

This innovation effectively reduces sound pollution and increases safety, compared to an aircraft with a conventional anti-torque rotor – the tail rotor is a helicopter's primary source of noise and a critical potential point of failure – and also reduces operational and maintenance costs.

“This program is first and foremost the result of brilliant cooperation between Safran and Bell teams since, from the first discussions of the concept to the first helicopter flight with EDAT, only one year has passed, filled with intense work in a highly-integrated team. The Bell EDAT is a new example of our technological building blocks from our roadmap GENeUS (generators), GENEeUSGRID (distribution) and ENGINeUS (engines), for the electrification and hybridization of propulsive and non-propulsive functions,” said Olivier Maka, Program Vice-President of the Power division.