- EPI Company Background -
History, Capabilities, Standards
EPI Inc. is a small corporation, started in 1992, which specializes in the design and development of piston engines and power transmission systems, as well as systems and subsystems for powerplant applications, with special emphasis on aircraft.
EPI has developed successful high performance engines, powerplants, subsystems and performance improvements for a wide variety of applications, including aircraft, helicopters, auto racing, boat racing, oil exploration, trucks and locomotives.
EPI has designed several very successful propeller speed reduction gearboxes which enable the use of high-RPM, high-power engines to power certain propeller-driven aircraft. The EPI Mark-9 gearbox is one of the most successful propeller reduction units ever made, with approximately 30 in service on 400+ HP engines, having achieved thousands of cumulative hours of problem-free flight time.
EPI uses a comprehensive collection of analysis, measurement and manufacturing tools which make it possible to accomplish major projects in relatively short timeframes.
Our analysis tools include powerful purchased software packages (3-D CAD, FEA, Valvetrain Analysis, Engine Simulation) as well in-house proprietary software for the design of gears, the analysis of dynamic loading in geared systems, the determination of the life and load capacity of journal, face, and rolling element bearings, and for analysis of various aspects of aircraft engine installation problems.
We provide 3D-CAD services (SolidWorks™), FEA (COSMOS™) and CFD (PSW™) for clients, while guaranteeing the utmost in confidentiality and protection of clients' data and ideas.
Our measurement tools include computerized systems for airflow measurement, camshaft measurement and engine output measurement, as well as a powerful computerized data acquisition system suitable for collection and analysis of flight data during test flight programs.
EPI does more than theoretical work. The company has comprehensive machining and fabrication capabilities, which include precision machining, casting, TIG welding of alloy steels, stainless, aluminum and magnesium.
EPI maintains working relationships with proven specialty-vendors for high quality casting, CNC work, heat treating, grinding, surface treatments, gear and spline work.
EPI also has working relationships with various suppliers of specialty engine components, including one of the pre-eminent cam lobe designers in the world. The in-house capabilities combined with these relationships enable rapid prototyping and development of new designs.
Our billing rates are modest. EPI does not charge clients for time spent learning to use tools, fighting with software, fixing machines, or the like. If we think the cost of a particular project has become excessive, we adjust the invoice before submitting it to the client. We are able to admit mistakes when we make them, and do not charge the client (directly or indirectly) to recover from our mistakes.
As a primary business goal, EPI attempts to maintain the highest standards of honesty, integrity and trustworthiness. We strive to provide the best possible product for our clients, and we work equally well as an independent entity or as part of a team effort.
To see a more detailed presentation of EPI's capabilities and specialties, CLICK HERE .
For the RESUMÉ of EPI's founder, CLICK HERE.
