463B

Fuel boosting function of the 463B pump

The main task of the 463B is to increase pressure in the fuel supply line before the main engine fuel pump. This prevents fuel starvation and reduces the risk of cavitation at the inlet of the downstream fuel equipment. The pump is especially important during high-altitude operation, when pressure conditions in the fuel system become more demanding. By creating a stable pressure rise, the 463B supports reliable engine fuel supply across different flight modes.

463B as an external centrifugal fuel pump

The 463B is an external centrifugal pump, not an in-tank unit. Its pump section uses a rotating impeller to accelerate fuel and create the required pressure rise in the line. This type of pump is compact and suitable for continuous operation in aircraft fuel systems. Since it works outside the tank, installation quality, sealing, pipe connections and vibration condition are important. Any leakage, restriction or contamination in the line can affect pump performance and fuel-system reliability.

Electric motor drive of the 463B pump

The 463B is driven by an MB-280B electric motor. The pump operates from a 27 V DC aircraft power supply with a tolerance of ±10%. Current consumption is not more than 17 A according to the supplied data. This makes electrical condition an important part of inspection. During service, the motor, connector, wiring, insulation condition, current draw and stable rotation should be checked together with hydraulic performance.

463B on Mi-8 / Mi-17 family helicopters

The 463B is applicable to Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-171 and Mi-172 fuel systems, depending on aircraft configuration. In these helicopters, the pump supports fuel delivery to the main engine fuel system and helps improve altitude capability. Its role is to maintain positive pressure at the inlet of the main pump, so the fuel system can continue operating correctly when altitude, fuel temperature or demand conditions change. Exact installation should be verified by aircraft modification and fuel-system documentation.

Fuel compatibility and operating temperature of 463B

The 463B works with several aviation fuel grades, including T-1, TS-1, RT, T-5-1 and VT according to the supplied data. The fuel temperature range is from −55 to +50 °C, while ambient temperature range is from −60 to +50 °C. These limits are important for operation in cold climates and high-altitude conditions. Fuel cleanliness and correct filtration are also essential, because contamination can damage the centrifugal pump section and reduce pressure output.

Performance and altitude capability of 463B

The pump provides a flow rate of 4000 L/h and a pressure rise of not less than 0.82 kgf/cm². It is designed to support fuel-system operation at launch altitudes up to 17,000 m according to the supplied data. These characteristics show that the pump is intended not just for fuel transfer, but for boosting and stabilizing the inlet conditions of the main engine fuel pump. During acceptance, flow rate, pressure rise and current consumption should be checked together.

Supply and documentation for 463B

For supply or replacement, the pump should be requested by its full designation: 463B / 463B. The normal scope of supply is the pump assembly. Since this is an aircraft fuel-system component, passport and technical documentation are important for acceptance. Before installation, the pump should be checked for flow, pressure rise, current consumption, motor operation, leakage, port cleanliness, housing condition and compatibility with the aircraft fuel-system layout.