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VHA Rolls Out New NHP Topcoat on all Rotor Blades
Beginning with April 2020 deliveries, VHA customers may notice a matte finish on their main and tail rotor blades. VHA has begun applying a new nano hybrid polyurethane (NHP) topcoat to all of its main and tail rotor blade products.
Designed for aviation applications, the NHP topcoat uses a 3D nanoparticle structured chemical formula unlike any previous linear cross-link paint. The result is an extremely durable, flexible, and corrosion-resistant product that resists paint cracking and saltwater corrosion.
According to the paint manufacturer, the matte finish is rated at 7H pencil hardness while retaining flexibility. Undergoing ASTM 4000hr salt spray tests resulted in no rust or blisters. The product is also resistant to chemical corrosion, with an MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) resistance above 1500 double rubs in the ASTM D4752 solvent resistance rub test.
For operators, this new topcoat should eliminate paint cracking or peeling in most environments, and should significantly reduce erosion/corrosion in the harshest of environments. The NHP paint can be applied on top of existing paint to provide an extra layer of protection.
There is no extra upcharge for the new NHP topcoat to VHA customers receiving delivery of new blades or for paint warranty work. Customers who send their blades to Van Horn Repair for any other type of repair not associated with paint may opt to have the NHP topcoat applied for a small fee.
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For 206L LongRanger operators flying P/N 20633000-101 serial numbers A007-A009 or A012-A104, we would like to remind you that these blades are subject to AD 2022-22-08, which requires recurring tap inspections every 400 flight hours or 2,400 engine starts, whichever comes first. You can learn more about the tap test requirements and procedure in our video . These blades are likely to develop a delamination in the area of the weight pocket on the lower surface of the blade. The AD further requires removing the blades from service if the delamination reaches 6 inches in length. However, extensive company testing indicates that all blades will likely achieve their full retirement life before that occurs. So long as the delamination is monitored and does not exceed the permitted length, the blades are entirely safe to fly with no adverse effects on aircraft behavior or performance. Operators are required to report their findings at every inspection interval to VHA for tracking using the form on the last page of Service Bulletin 33000-4 . Completed forms should be emailed to info@vanhornaviation.com . Providing this data helps to ensure all operators of these blades remain safe. All of the identified blades are likely to have delaminations, so if none are detected please contact us for assistance. In addition, this AD is considered an interim action and once sufficient data is gathered it may be updated to reduce the required frequency of inspection. Refer to AD 2022-22-08 and SB 33000-4 for further information.
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