RuAviation

Following comprehensive testing, Russia’s civil aviation authority (Rosaviatsiya) has issued airworthiness certificates for the PD-8 engine’s electronic control units. The SAU-8 automatic engine control system was developed and manufactured by ODK-STAR, based in Perm. Certification documents confirm the functionality of the RED-8 electronic regulator and the BZD-8 protection unit, according to a statement from the United Engine Corporation (UEC) press service.

The units underwent lightning-resistance testing to the most stringent, fourth-category standard, exposing them to intense electromagnetic fields simulating lightning strikes on an aircraft. After testing, all equipment maintained full operational performance under extreme conditions.

The RED-8 regulator processes signals from engine sensors and manages all PD-8 operating modes: takeoff, cruise, and landing. It prevents low-pressure turbine overspeed and protects against compressor surge and start-up overheating. The BZD-8 unit safeguards the high-pressure compressor and fan rotors from overspeed.

These electronic units are integrated with the engine and aircraft systems via certified data channels. The software is entirely domestically developed and interfaces directly with the flight deck. Dina Sulimova, chief designer at ODK-STAR, noted that this approach ensures the engine control system was tailored to the specific aircraft in parallel with flight testing on Yakovlev’s “Electronic Bird” test rig.

The SAU-8 automatic control system for the PD-8 includes the RED-8 and BZD-8 units, a data storage module, fuel metering unit, engine mechanization module, pump assembly, and fuel bypass valve. All components utilize Russian materials and domestic electronic components, according to UEC.

Rosaviatsiya will next inspect ODK-STAR’s production processes and serial assembly organization. These steps are required to commence PD-8 serial production, which is planned for installation on the Yakovlev Superjet 100 and Beriev Be-200 aircraft.