Hartzell Engine Tech, a manufacturer of aviation components for general aviation and military markets, has rebranded and launched POWERUP Aircraft Ignition Systems. Acquired a year ago, the aftermarket systems include FAA/PMA approved aircraft magnetos, ignition harnesses, Slick, Bendix and Continental replacements parts and magneto repair kits.
Added a year ago, the portfolio now is becoming Hartzell’s largest operation joining Janitrol Aero, Fuelcraft, Plane-Power, Sky-Tec and AeroForce Turbocharger Systems while sister company Quality Aircraft Accessories is incorporating the line magneto components into its overhaul processes, replacing legacy Slick components. Common practice is have aircraft magneto magnets checked or replaced every 500 hours, or at least every annual or 100-hour inspection.
“POWERUP ignition systems are manufactured today on Hartzell Engine Tech’s foundation of proven reliability and precise engineering,” said Keith Bagley, president. The revamped line introduces several design improvements including a single-piece impulse coupling for greater durability and reliability, thicker coil insulation for increased service life and improved breaker points.
Basically, a magneto is an electrical generator that uses permanent magnets to create a high voltage pulse that ignites fuel in a piston. Magneto stators typically consist of a permanent magnet attached to a rotor that spins close to a coil of wire with two windings, creating a magnetic field to generate DC power. The magnetic circuit includes the permanent magnet, a soft iron core and pole shoes. Magnetos are different from electromagnets, which create a magnetic field by wrapping a coil of wire around an iron core. The process is reversed in a generator.
A portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management, Hartzell is based in Montgomery, Alabama. It acquired the magnetos line when it purchased Kelly Aero in November 2023. See www.hartzell.aero.
