In May 2012 the South African Air Force took delivery and installed the first of six Airwork BK117 Particle Separators (Sand Filters), seen above in grey.  The Airwork particle separator replaced an existing Eurocopter design and early indications are that the SAAF is extremely happy with its performance. With the new filters fitted a decrease of engine temperature was apparent, which implies more efficient performance of the engine. The decision to fit the filters was based on the capability of the more efficient filtering system to reduce sand erosion in the engines, thus reducing the maintenance cost of the engines. Contact Stephen Green at Airwork should any additional information be required on this particle separator.