Performance Comparison of Turbo Oil 2197 in Aviation

This case study evaluates the performance of Eastman Turbo Oil 2197 compared to a competitor's high-performance oil (HPC) used in the engines of a BK-117 helicopter operated by Dare MedFlight. The study outlines the challenges faced by the operator, including the frequent need to clean engine vent lines due to coking caused by the HPC oil. The evaluation involved a side-by-side comparison of the two oils, focusing on thermal stability and coke buildup in the engine vent tubes. Results indicated that Turbo Oil 2197 exhibited significantly less coke buildup, leading to improved engine operation and reduced cleaning frequency. The study suggests that the switch to Turbo Oil 2197 could facilitate an industry shift towards an inspection-based system for determining cleaning intervals, rather than relying solely on service hours. The findings are supported by visual evidence and in-service data collected during the evaluation period, demonstrating the advantages of Turbo Oil 2197 in maintaining engine performance.