FLM136-J Variant

FLM 136-J is a jet powered version of the FLM136 to achieve higher speeds and greater maneuverability. This variant shares the same launch methods, preflight procedures, weather limits, base composite airframe, avionics, and payload capacity as the standard aircraft.

Contents

• Key Differences
• FLM136 Comparison
• Unique Equipment
• FLM136-J Specs

Key Differences

The -J variant replaces the DA215 carbureted piston engine and propeller with a gas turbine, enabling significantly higher speeds and improved climb performance at the expense of fuel efficiency. This efficiency trade-off arises from the inherent differences between piston and turbine engine designs; piston engines are generally more fuel-efficient.

The turbine operates on diesel fuel, unlike the standard variant which uses automotive gasoline. With no propeller clearance constraints, the -J variant can be equipped with optional retractable landing gear, allowing for conventional takeoffs and landings when surface conditions permit — offering a gentler alternative to belly landings.

Engine startup procedures are also different. Unlike the DA215, which requires a separate starter or hand-propping, the turbine has an integrated electric starter, supports in-flight restarts, and features an automatic cool-down procedure upon shutdown.

FLM136 Comparison

Unique Equipment

The following components are unique to the FLM136-J.

• Turbine A turbine is a continuous-flow internal combustion engine that compresses incoming air, mixes it with fuel, and ignites the mixture to produce high-pressure combustion.
• Turbine Mount Replaces the DA215 aluminum engine mount and vibration isolators for a composite mount and a metal turbine mounting ring.
• Engine Control Unit (ECU): The Engine Control Unit (ECU) manages the turbine engine by regulating fuel delivery and controlling startup systems. It monitors exhaust gas temperature (EGT), throttle position, and rotor speed to keep the engine within safe limits, and initiates automatic shutdown if critical issues arise. The ECU includes an RPM sensor, thermocouple, and throttle input, and provides power to the fuel pump, primer valve, starter motor, glow plug, and fuel/gas valves. A data port enables programming and real-time monitoring via a Ground Support Unit (GSU) or PC.
• Air Intake Scoop: Replaces the standard rear payload bay hatch and provides air for the turbine.

• Data Relay Module (DRM): Responsible for all data, signal, and power transmission.
• Fuel Pump A brushless fuel pump controlled by the ECU that provides fuel to the turbine.
• Ground Support Unit (GSU) display The GSU is a touch screen display that serves as the turbine dashboard for monitoring engine data on the ground and during preflight. It is also used for configuration changes and to view engine statistics such as runtime.
• Fuel Shutoff Valve An inline fuel shutoff valve used on the ground to quickly cut off fuel flow in case of leaking, reducing the risk of fire, and during storage.

• Fuel Filter An additional inline fuel filter to remove contaminants before reaching the turbine.

• Landing Gear (Not Shown) Optional retractable landing gear allows for conventional takeoffs and landings on smooth runways.

• Fuel (Not Shown) The turbine typically uses Diesel, but also supports Jet-A and kerosene.
• Turbine Oil (Not Shown) Special turbine oil is mixed with the fuel at a 5% ratio.
• ECU Battery (Not Shown) Electrical power for the turbine starter, glow plug, ECU, fuel pump, fuel and gas valves (not the GSU) is provided by a separate 3S LiFe battery.

FLM 136-J Specs