Donaldson has delivered the first full-scale engine air particle protection system (EAPPS) to Sikorsky for the CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter destined to achieve initial operating capability (IOC) with the U.S. Marines in 2018. Qualification testing of the EAPPS will begin in May. Each of the helicopter’s three GE38-1B turboshafts will be equipped with the Donaldson filtration systems, which use “StrataTube” technology to provide a lightweight and low-maintenance means of protecting the engines from dust and sand. Donaldson says the EAPPS produces low airflow restriction while removing 97 percent of coarse test sand.