Turbine Sonex?

[jjbardell]

Has anyone considered even attempting this?

Because I have a crazy idea to...

http://www.pbsvb.com/customer-industrie ... rop-engine

[Waiex 49]

I think it could be done.
Not saying it should be done.
Search YouTube for Turbine Zenith 701.
I'm sure something similar could be done on a Sonex.

[Bryan Cotton]

I have not. I see some potential issues though. At about 130ish lbs, problem 1 is aft CG. Problem 2 is power - 240ish HP may be a bit over the top. Problem 3 is prop length - at the low RPM they list it is bound to be a big prop. Problem 4, I am guessing, would be fuel burn. Little turbines have poor SFCs, generally. The 16 gallon Sonex tank may not cut it.

Otherwise, looks great!

[jjbardell]

It may not be the exact model engine, but an extra tank forward of the fire wall, an extended engine mount to move the CG forward and low power would reduce the fuel burn. Imagine climbing at 170kts @ 3,000ft/min. Cruise at 200mph at 17,000 ft. And the sound of everyone's necks snapping around when that lovely turbine spools.

I realize it's a lot of work, planning and unknowns. But imagine how cool. Lol.

[Brett]

Stick it in an RV... less chance of cruising at VNE.

[Bryan Cotton]

It would be very cool - no doubt! The scheme to run at low power to conserve fuel would probably not work well though. Unlike a recip you burn a lot of fuel even at idle. They run turbines hard to get the best SFC and take the speed that goes with it.

[fastj22]

I think it could be done.
Not saying it should be done.
Search YouTube for Turbine Zenith 701.
I'm sure something similar could be done on a Sonex.

I saw the 701 turbine at OSH this past year and talked to the owner. He said it's a hoot to fly but the fuel use is excessive. What do think the cost is?

[sonex892.]

Since you will be taxying at 50% power you might have to upgrade the brakes a bit, and or have a variable pitch prop capable of beta pitch. It would though, be very cool. I really do hope you do it.
Steve
Sonex 892
VH-ZSX 195 hrs

[DCASonex]

If I read the specs right, 2,150 RPM would be too slow for the small diameter prop that would fit a Sonex.

David A.

[LarryEWaiex121]

If a person is going to waste all the money to put a turbine in a Sonex, why wouldn't you design an all new airframe designed to cruise at 175-200kts or higher with a higher aspect ratio wing designed to fly at altitude where the turbine would be more efficient? Not to mention a place to store fuel, which your certainly going to need unless you don't intend to leave your own back yard.

Larry