Powerpack (drivetrain)

Power pack removal of an M75 APC

A power pack or powerpack is a part of a modular powertrain that contains some type of engine (most frequently an internal combustion engine but other types, including electric motors, are possible) and may also contain a transmission and various supporting components. Powerpacks are used with certain types of industrial equipment designs, including vehicle designs such as forklifts and cherry picker lifts but also stationary equipment such as paint sprayers. Virtually all modern military tanks use them, and many other military vehicles as well.

The modularity is what makes a powerpack powertrain different from other types; using the term powerpack implies that the whole unit can be easily removed or separated from the rest of the machine, allowing it to be rapidly replaced by another powerpack while the original is repaired or disposed of, and minimizing the amount of time that the entire machine is out of use. Even in cases where the powerpack is not being replaced, being able to remove it can make repairs easier and faster.

Power-egg

A related concept in Second World War aircraft was the power-egg, called kraftei by the Germans. The power-egg was a modular engine installation, consisting of engine and all ancilliary equipment, which could be swapped between suitabley designed aircraft, with standardised fixing points and connectors. In aircraft so designed the power-egg was removed before the mean time to failure was reached and a fresh one installed, the removed engine would then be sent for maintenance. The United States was able to provide spare engines in sealed containers protected from damage and the elements.

See also

• Prime mover