NOTE: RADIO CONTROL HELICOPTERS ARE ON THE BOTTOM HALF OF THE PAGE.
Unlike many helicopters, the Kaman K-Max is a dedicated cargo hauler. It is the first production helicopter specifically designed for this function. Its cabin holds just a single pilot.
The unique twin intermeshed rotors of the K-Max eliminate the need for a tail rotor. The arrangement enables the aircraft to use more of its engine power for lifting. In addition, it can
maneuver in areas that may not be accessible to conventional helicopter designs.
Pilots of the K-Max can train to fly the helicopter at the Kaman Connecticut U.S.A. facility using ex-military company helicopters. The pilot's seat is designed for support, comfort, and its ability to withstand a heavy landing.
The large, angled windows around the cockpit give the pilot excellent visibility. A fuselage made from light alloy make the aircraft light weight and strong. Its tail weighs just over 79 lbs. and can easily be removed so that the helicopter may be stored in compact areas. A tricycle landing gear permits ground handling in tight spaces.
Kaman tells us that its aircraft is designed for long life and low maintenance. The engine is designed for 10,000 hours of operation and 1,500 hours between overhauls. The airframe is designed to last for over 20 years of operation, based on 1,000 hours of use per year.
The K-Max can lift up to a 6,000 lb. load on its cargo hook. The helicopter is used for logging operations, cargo hauling, in the construction industry, and as a water and retardant dropping air tanker. In addition to the U.S., the aircraft has been sold in Canada, France, Sweden and Switzerland.
Some 39 Kaman K-Max helicopters have been produced to date.
cargo hauling
one
Allied Signal T53-17A1
1,800 h.p.
52' 0"
13' 7"
2 x 48' 4"
4,690 lbs.
11,475 lbs.
92 mph
115 mph
2,500 fpm
25,000 feet
300 miles
3/26/92
1994
Radio Control Helicopter
The rc K-max helicopter scratch built by Matt Thorsten. It is powered by
a PJW-LE turbine and uses mechanical mixers. Length is 86 1/2", width 30", height 30" and its two rotors are 81" in diameter.
Radio Control Helicopters
We have found only three examples of the unique Kaman K-Max rc helicopter. There are certainly a number of challenges presented modeling it due to its intermeshed rotor system.
We only found one K-Max rc helicopter for sale to the public from CAD + Modelltechnik Jung. It is giant scale, uses microprocessor mixers, and designed for a PWJ turbine. Length is 162", width is 30" and height 34".
Rotors can be from 3 to 4 meters in diameter. It should weigh around 50 lbs.
Kaman K-Max
