GKN Aerospace to showcase latest structures and systems at EBACE
The company continues to deliver both aerostructures and aero-engine content for the Dassault Falcon 5X. Innovative manufacturing and assembly processes have been introduced across these work packages including the first application of additive manufacturing techniques in components contained within the leading edges on the flaps. GKN Aerospace also supplies the low pressure turbine (LPT) case for Snecma’s new Silvercrest® large/long range business jet engine which will power the SMS as well as the Cessna Citation Longitude.
Looking at its aerostructures activity, GKN Aerospace is contracted to design and manufacture the complete light-weight, bonded all-composite fuselage for the innovative HondaJet and Bombardier has selected the company as a major supplier on its Global 7000 and 8000 ultra-long range business jets. Here the company is responsible for the advanced ailerons and winglets as well as aircraft’s full suite of transparencies for both cockpit and passenger cabin.
The company’s aircraft transparencies operation supplies windows for the Beechcraft KingAir, the Lear 35/45 and 60 as well as the complete Embraer aircraft family. The latest passenger windows are the largest and most effective on the market and GKN Aerospace is developing dimmable cabin management technology that will incorporate a full cabin blackout capability providing passengers with new levels of comfort during their journey.
Marcus Bryson (above), Chief Executive, GKN Aerospace and Land Systems said: “With long term growth predicted to continue in the business aviation sector, particularly in the larger end of the business jet market, this continues to be an important focus for us. This is a sector where we believe our extensive technological expertise across composites, metalics, transparencies and elastomerics can achieve valuable performance enhancements for both the aircraft operator and the passenger.”
GKN Aerospace will be promoting its engine systems business at the show. This operation is a leading provider of high performance metallic and composite structural engine components - including the LPT case for Snecma’s Silvercrest engine. The operation includes an established OEM authorised facility which provides servicing for the complete range of Honeywell TFE731 turbofan engines which equip aircraft such as the Bombardier Learjet, Dassault Falcon, Raytheon Hawker and Cessna Citation. This facility, established over 30 years ago, has a team of skilled personnel who service some 200 engines per annum, undertaking all levels of engine maintenance up to and including full overhaul and test of commercial and military aero engines. In addition, the company’s engine fan blade repair service repairs more than 67,000 parts annually supporting over 280 customers worldwide including OEM’s such as CFMI, GE, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce.
The company’s new nacelle assembly facility, opened last year and situated alongside Honeywell’s Phoenix, AZ operation, has just delivered its first HTF7250 engines fully integrated into GKN Aerospace designed and manufactured nacelles, to Gulfstream for the G280 super mid-sized business jet. This site will support the growing list of customers for Honeywell’s multi-application HTF7000 engine.
In the rotary wing market, recent developments include a multi-million dollar life-of-programme contract from Bell Helicopter to develop and supply crashworthy fuel tanks, using the company’s patented lightweight fuel cell material, for Bell’s new 525 Relentless helicopter. GKN Aerospace has already been selected to supply key metallic and composite structures for this high-performance, super medium helicopter.
Research and development activities are addressing a wide variety of issues - including additive manufacture, transparencies developments, intelligent coatings and materials improvements, composite structure design and process developments.
