Barnbrook flying high at FIA
Above: Managing director Anthony Barnett, left, and chief technology officer Andrew Barnett, right, outside the Barnbrook Systems headquarters.
Barnbrook Systems will give the cutting-edge fuel switch pride of place on its stand as it attends the aerial extravaganza for the tenth successive time.
Barnbrook, which is based in Fareham, is developing the innovative fuel switch for a major aerospace company to cut off fuel pumps for split seconds at a time to stop spills during refuelling in the air and on deck.
Barnbrook will also showcase engine control units which it repairs and overhauls for private jets as well other technology during the show's week-long trade fair.
Leading staff from Barnbook will be at Farnborough all week, including managing director Anthony Barnett and head of engineering Keith Smith. Apprentices, including PETA Training and Consultancy Services Apprentice of the Year Ryan Bulman, will also attend on the first three days.
Andrew Barnett, who is chief technology officer at the 35-strong company, said: "We have been to every Farnborough International Airshow for the past 20 years.
"As the most important event for the aerospace and defence industry, it is a prime opportunity to demonstrate and showcase our new innovations and products to other leading industry figures and potential customers from around the world."
He added: "We are excited to be exhibiting our innovative, new fuel switch which will revolutionise the refuelling of helicopters, making it safer and more efficient.
"Our attendance will continue a landmark year, coming after recent awards successes and a succession of new contracts."
Transducers for the fuel switch detect waves of fuel inside a tank and cut off fuel pumps to prevent spillage out of air vents.
The new technology is particularly aimed at refuelling on the deck of ships in heavy seas to stop crew slipping or helicopters sliding on spillages.
It will also be used for demanding inflight refuelling when turbulence can cause problems.
Barnbrook, which has offices and a factory in Fareham Park Road, Fareham, has won a deal with a major manufacturer to develop 13 pre-production units for pre-flight trials for military helicopters. Details of the deal for the fuel switch were not disclosed.
