Engines & Accessories

The Fuel Control Unit (FCU) in a helicopter is a crucial part of the engine control system, the FCU’s main function is regulating and metering the fuel flow to the engine, to maintain the proper air-fuel mixture for combustion within the engine.

Helicopters are mostly powered by gas turbine engines, also known as a turboshaft engine with varying shaft horsepower.

Turboshaft engines are well-suited for helicopters due to their ability to provide high power output at relatively low weight.

Main components of a turboshaft engine are the Compressor Section, Gas Generator Section, Combustion Section & Turbine Section.

The Fuel Control Unit (FCU) in a helicopter is a crucial part of the engine control system, the FCU’s main function is regulating and metering the fuel flow to the engine, to maintain the proper air-fuel mixture for combustion within the engine.

The FCU regulates the amount of fuel delivered to the engine based on various parameters such as throttle position, engine speed, altitude, and temperature. It ensures that the engine receives the appropriate fuel-air mixture under different operating conditions.

As the pilot adjusts the throttle lever in the cockpit, the FCU responds by modulating the fuel flow to maintain the desired engine power.

It’s important to note that specific designs and features of FCUs can vary between different helicopter models and types of engines.