Use alternative sealants to improve aircraft availability.
Aircraft design and construction require careful selection of suitable materials to meet performance and safety requirements, while optimizing the combination of material characteristics and performance. The choice made by the engineer not only has a major impact on the function of the airframe, but also has a major impact on the maintainability and operational performance of the aircraft throughout its service life.
A key priority for aircraft operators is aircraft availability. To meet this priority, maintenance personnel strive to maximize the number of available aircraft to meet scheduled operating requirements, and aircraft that are not included in the operating requirements can be used for unplanned, scheduled or preventive maintenance or repairs.
A key determinant of aircraft availability is the time it takes to maintain the aircraft, usually in the form of inspections, repairs or repairs, which may require disassembly and replacement of components. Although many maintenance operations may be performed inside large aircraft, many tasks require the opening or removal of external access panels (especially on fighter jets), which are often sealed with Form-in-Place (FIP) seals. FIP seals are usually created using wet sealants, and removing the panels on which they are installed usually involves scraping off the sealant and prying up the panel, often damaging the seal and possibly the panel.
Operational requirements often conflict with the time required to repair or replace a damaged FIP seal, forcing the damaged seal to stay in place until the next major maintenance event, which may be completed at a very late date. Therefore, the components in the panel cavity where the FIP seal is damaged are at risk of damage due to water or fluid intrusion. In addition, improperly formed FIP seals may produce dry spots due to sealant extrusion during initial application, and contact between the panel and the structure can cause damage to the protective coating, which can lead to corrosion. Without the protective barrier of the FIP seal, the contact surface is particularly susceptible to fretting damage caused by vibration, which can be important, especially on helicopters. Fretting significantly reduces the quality of the surface layer, increases the surface roughness and pits, thereby reducing the fatigue strength of the components. Ultimately, repairing corrosion damage will require downtime, labor, and materials.
As with any maintenance task, the installation and maintenance of FIP seals have a direct impact on the availability of the aircraft. The time for preparation, masking, mixing, application and cleaning is further extended by the curing time, which may vary greatly due to temperature and humidity. Finally, there is the opportunity cost of missing work that maintenance personnel could have done, instead of FIP sealing work.
The most commonly used material for FIP sealing is a two-part polysulfide sealant (such as B1/2, B2, etc.), which is often used in applications such as structural components that require joint surface sealing.
Polysulfide is an effective sealant that can fit irregular surfaces and has strong adhesion. Although polysulfide can be used to form a FIP seal by using a release agent on the mating surface, it may still be difficult to remove the panel for the first time and damage the seal due to digging out the sealant and prying up the panel. In some cases, damage to the panel, structure, or protective coating may also occur during panel removal.
Although polysulfide sealants are effective, their handling and performance require alternatives to minimize trade-offs. Fortunately, there are other options, including sealing tape. SKYFLEX™ aerospace materials from WL Gore and Associates is one such product. SKYFLEX tapes and die-cut gaskets are made of pure expanded polytetrafluoroethylene or ePTFE, and their materials are the same as those used in Teflon.
ePTFE has multiple characteristics that make it suitable for aerospace sealant applications:
There are several products on the market that use PTFE variants, but SKYFLEX is still unique in its formulation and performance. Unlike other tape sealants that use PTFE as a layer or coating, it is always pure PTFE.
Gore's ePTFE engineering ensures a combination of wear characteristics to optimize tensile strength and tear propagation resistance throughout the wear cycle, while maintaining sealing performance for multiple panel removal/installation cycles. During the entire service life of the SKYFLEX seal, its compression seal quality will not change. If the appropriate variant is applied, it will not squeeze out, dry out, or degrade due to exposure to aviation fluids.
There are a variety of ribbed/flat ePTFE tapes or die-cut gaskets to choose from to meet various application requirements:
In addition to its performance as a sealant, ePTFE tape also provides:
The SKYFLEX material usually used as FIP seal on F-16 and other aircraft is ribbed sealing tape. It has a variety of configurations to choose from, is easy to fit the application surface, and has zero curing time or zero hazardous waste. After installation, the inherent non-stick properties of PTFE ensure that the access panel is easy to disassemble for inspection, maintenance or repair, allowing for quick reinstallation of fully effective seals. ePTFE tapes and gaskets play a role in reducing corrosion by sealing, isolating and protecting painted surfaces with tough, low-friction sealing barriers. ePTFE seals are more durable than polysulfide-based FIP seals, are not easily damaged, and are easy to repair.
The figure shows the approved application areas for using SKYFLEX on the F-16. Blue indicates areas recommended for 100 and 110 series (flat and ribbed) tapes, and yellow highlights the use of 720 series tapes in areas exposed to the environment Or gasket fuel or other hydrocarbons, such as hydraulic oil.
For environments exposed to more aggressive chemicals, Gore introduced the 730 series of tapes, which are resistant to hydraulic fluids such as Skydrol and have similar sealing and wear properties to other SKYFLEX models.
Time analysis comparing SKYFLEX and polysulfide provides a more analytical assessment of the advantages of ePTFE tape. To use polysulfide as a FIP seal, mixing polysulfide is only one step, while masking, panel installation work, and the use of a release agent are required to prevent the sealant from adhering to one of the mating surfaces. Following these typical steps for applying polysulfides, the panel removal/installation cycle will take approximately two hours, see the table on page 90 for details.
A typical panel installation using polysulfide requires a maximum of 120 minutes for each disassembly/installation cycle, plus a curing time of 6 to 30 hours.
Installing ePTFE tape for the first time will require the same level of surface treatment, but without masking or mixing. The total preparation and initial application time of the ePTFE material is approximately 65 minutes, with no curing time.
After installation, the ePTFE seal can ensure easy removal and reinstallation, while maintaining the integrity of the complete seal, thereby significantly reducing the cycle time for subsequent panel removal.
In order to compare the curing time between B ½ and ePTFE tape, a technical order showing non-stickiness and flying time is provided above.
In addition to the time advantage, the cost comparison of an example installation of a small panel with a sealing circumference of approximately 2 feet is also shown. To put work stock on the shelf, the user might buy a B ½ disposable stand-alone SemKit® or a pint can, or buy a typical 100-foot roll of SKYFLEX. Installing this small panel requires a SemKit® or approximately two feet of SKYFLEX.
When all the attributes of the ePTFE tape are added up, the net expenditure will be roughly the same in the end, but the benefits will pay off significantly:
There are many factors when choosing a material to be used as an on-site molding sealant for aircraft. In addition to physical properties, the characteristics of the material in terms of application and use performance also need to be considered. The best combination of performance can not only meet the technical requirements, but also meet the needs of having a positive impact on aircraft maintainability, improving aircraft availability and long-term life cycle costs.
About the author: Christopher S. Mardis (Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel) is the President of CSM Solutions LLC, which provides logistics and technology management consulting services. He is an aircraft maintenance and military logistics professional with more than 26 years of active military service experience. You can contact him at christophermardis22@gmail.com.
Teflon is a registered trademark of Chemours. Skydrol is a registered trademark of Eastman Chemical. SemKit® is a registered trademark of PPG Industries.
TDAAS collects data from different systems to accelerate development and verification.
Validation of aerospace components is critical, because failure of components in the field may cause casualties or the death of aircraft. Engine and flight stakeholders need to use real decision support information rather than large amounts of data to evaluate the behavior of specific components. With funding from the Air Force's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Program, the RJ Lee Group (RJLG) developed the Test Data Aggregation and Analysis System (TDAAS). This technology makes a large number of different scientific and engineering information archives available to drive real-time, informed decision-making. TDAAS locates data to answer the difficult questions that drive the design, development, and deployment of defense systems.
TDAAS helps eliminate redesign costs and reduce the time required to find test data and related documents, allowing hundreds of analysis iterations.
The test data size of the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) test facility exceeds 1PB (1 million GB), distributed in countless unrelated databases. Engineers are facing more and more challenges and need to provide accurate and insightful analysis in a timely manner. Improved search and data correlation capabilities and processes can better identify and discover meaningful information about turbine engine propulsion, aerodynamics of systems and regulations, and space systems.
"Every day, scientists, engineers, and analysts have to rely on human memory, often unable to find information from similar tests, or unable to believe previous test results due to lack of complete documentation, which leads them to conduct new tests and Analysis, this will increase maintenance costs," said project manager Brandon Hoffman. "There is a great need for the entire Department of Defense to collect, index, and link this type of information in a way that provides meaning for future or derivative works across multiple locations and sources. TDAAS can connect to these multiple locations and sources, thereby Search all information without changing the original location or owner of the data."
Klaus Schug, Chief Architect of Arnold AFB, said: "TDAAS increases the amount of accessible information by allowing individuals to add their own data and analysis results directly to TDAAS for all analysts to access. By applying lessons learned in the past One of the best value propositions is to eliminate the potential for billions of dollars in recurring costs."
The success of SBIR led RJLG to obtain additional funding through the Rapid Innovation Fund (RIF) program contract to mature the TDAAS prototype into an operational production system. After the completion of the RIF contract, RJLG will help TDAAS transition to the production of AEDC, allowing users to understand the cost, design and performance of the system.
FA1050 5-axis horizontal machining center performs boring, end milling, fine cutting, threading and U-axis machining, while maintaining accuracy at a fast metal removal rate. The cast iron base and full plate clamping mechanism can support up to 26,000 pounds of table clamping force. Four heavy-duty bearings support the main shaft to reduce vibration. The Boxway machine performs fast acceleration and consistency with a 60hp spindle drive motor at a speed of 6,000 rpm.
The SFcompact chip conveyor can filter the coolant to 50µm and process chips of many sizes and types, including stainless steel, brass, and aluminum. The system does not rely on a large footprint, roller-based design, but uses a self-cleaning dual filter, which can be removed within 15 minutes after removing the chip conveyor.
Because the filter system is integrated in the rigid frame, the chip conveyor does not take up more floor space than a typical hinged belt conveyor, and it can usually be used with existing coolant tanks.
The self-cleaning dual filter eliminates the entanglement of chips around the drum-causing clogging, damage and machine downtime-making it possible to process materials with various chip sizes and types. Hardened track, rigid frame structure and other wear-resistant parts can prolong service life.
The Landis-Bryant RU2 Fuel MGMT multi-face grinder can flexibly grind complex components used in fuel systems, valves and transmission systems, bearings, aerospace and medical applications.
It is specially designed for fuel system components that require strict control of related functions. It adopts a double slider arrangement on the Z axis and can accommodate up to six grinding spindles. Multiple sliding possibilities on the X and Z axes-with multiple working heads, grinding wheel heads and dressing systems-allow machine drilling, installation and end faces.
Thanks to the high-resolution HEIDENHAIN glass scales and FANUC linear motors, the rigid hydrostatic round rod guide system can position all axes to ensure dimensional and geometric accuracy. Options include a variety of sizes; a range of spindles, grinding spindles, dressing spindles, slides, tools and fixtures; and can handle parts up to 14" (350mm) in diameter and 7" (177mm) in length. The grinder can be configured as a chuck, centerless shoe and center-type system.
Griffo Brother's CamLink software is now available for Windows 10 and Smooth Control. The software allows users to program Mazatrol offline on all machine controls, save files from old Mazak machines, convert programs from one Mazak machine to another, and move data from Solidworks to Mazatrol. CamLink software provides the following functions:
The intRlox Mini Nut non-slip clamping system ensures that the wrench will not slip off the ER collet nut when properly engaged. The smaller size intRlox nuts have a non-slip design that uses circular locking grooves located around the nut profile instead of the end surface. The wrench is grasped from the side of the nut, and the tightening or loosening action temporarily locks the wrench in place.
The second generation Ultrasonic 20 linear can perform 5-axis machining of complex workpieces made of high-grade materials. Improvements include a spindle speed of up to 60,000 rpm, a more powerful drive motor, a smaller footprint, and a CELOS controller with an application developed for ultrasound.
The digitally controlled ultrasonic generator reduces the processing force of the filament structure, the surface quality is as high as Ra <0.1µm, and the tool life is prolonged. The tool holder contains piezoelectric elements, activated by a programmable induction system with a frequency between 20kHz and 50kHz.
The linear drive can achieve a maximum acceleration of >1.2 g and a fast movement of 2,000ipm. The large swivel range of the A-axis of the worktable is -15° to 130° and an infinitely rotatable 360° rotation axis. The machine is equipped with 5-axis simultaneous machining, up to 1,500 rpm. It can be used as an option for cylindrical milling and turning-milling. Processed C axis.
The SSB bearing preload series has increased the diameter from 9 mm to 13 mm. The single-turn wave spring helps eliminate bearing clearance and minimize noise. Constant light/medium pressure eliminates the clearance between the ball bearing and the inner and outer rings of the bearing. Preloading can reduce the risk of bearing damage due to vibration and wear caused by repetitive and non-repetitive beating.
Traditional Smalley wave springs and Spirolox retaining rings can be machined to 0.165" or 4 mm diameter.
SS207-5AX LaserSwiss is a 20mm 7-axis Swiss-style CNC lathe with B-axis control, which combines Swiss-style CNC machining with laser cutting. It was developed by the Innovative Machinery Group (IMG) to allow manufacturers to perform Swiss turning and laser cutting in a single setup. All operations are programmed and driven by the machine's Fanuc 31i-B5 CNC.
The Minuteman 320 GEN II and Patriot 338 GEN II bar feeders are 12-foot devices for feeding round, square and hexagonal bars into CNC lathes. Minuteman 320 GEN II has a bar diameter ranging from 3 mm to 20 mm; while the Patriot 338 GEN II has a capacity of 3 mm to 38 mm. Both have hydrodynamic quick-change polyurethane guide grooves. This channel configuration is filled with oil to produce a hydrodynamic effect, thereby increasing the speed and reducing noise and vibration.
The dual anti-vibration device stabilizes the bar at two key points between the guide rail and the lathe spindle, maximizing the speed potential. Its adjustable roller design provides excellent support and can easily set all bar diameters without having to spend multiple bearing seats.
Louis Belet SA Precision Carbide Expert Series Toolkit is specially designed for aluminum, brass, titanium, stainless steel and composite materials. These kits contain optimized geometries and coatings for drill bits, end mills, slotting saws, thread milling cutters, engraving and positioning tools.
Electrochemical machining (ECM) supports the manufacture of complex parts with demanding materials because it can process high-strength alloys and similar materials with minimal tool wear. There are no burrs on the surface and there is no change in the microstructure of the material. The machine has been delivered to the aero engine manufacturer's supply chain for processing nickel alloy central blisks, discs and individual blades.
In the electrochemical process, the workpiece acts as the positive electrode and the tool acts as the negative electrode. Between the two, the electrolyte stream dissolves the metal ions on the workpiece. Contours, channels, grooves and cavities can be generated without contacting elements.
For the processing of turbine blades, an ECM system equipped with 11 processing stations performs drilling, contour processing, radius processing and polishing operations on one machine. Inconel processes at a speed of 5mm/min. The tolerance is between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm.
Due to the nano multilayer AlTiN coating with high aluminum content, these PVD grades have wear resistance and fracture resistance. The coating can reduce notch wear, crater wear and built-up edge when processing heat-resistant alloys. The two AH8000 grades include AH8015, which has good wear resistance and fracture resistance; and AH8005, which is a high-hardness grade with excellent wear resistance. The material is treated with PremiumTec surface technology to add a highly polished cutting surface to provide additional stability and longer tool life.
The HRF chipbreaker for finishing provides low cutting force due to the large rake angle and cutting edge inclination, providing excellent chip control, especially when machining in the low cutting depth range. HRM chip breaker is used for finishing to medium cutting. It is characterized by a protrusion on the rake face, which can minimize the contact of chips and the rake face, thereby reducing the build-up edge.
TRAK 2OP simplifies the workshop's workflow by quickly providing operators with additional spindles and reducing the overall cycle/throughput time by performing auxiliary operations within the cycle time of the main operation. 2OP improves labor utilization and reduces product planning/scheduling.
TRAK 2OP covers an area of 2.5 feet x 4 feet, includes an eight-station automatic tool changer, and can run G codes. It utilizes proven ProtoTRAK CNC technology and conversational language programming. Programs can be generated on the machine or remotely to perform tasks normally associated with secondary operations.
GT-27 SL 3-axis linkage inclined bed is a 7.5hp, 6,000rpm, 5-C chuck spindle machine tool, with 13.5" lateral travel and a C-axis with a driven tool. The machine tool can cut ID and OD using rotation The broach is used for thread processing and is equipped with a 1-3/8" sliding headstock bar feeder.
The RXS-400 used for honeycomb manufacturing uses the Fanuc M710 robot, which carries a row of eight Guyson 900 guns and is installed in a heavy-duty cabinet with electric sliding doors. The robot controls the dual Alpha S4 servo system coupled with Apex precision 50:1 gearbox. The precision two-stage CAM Technologies indexer places the parts in the exact position where the robot paints on the surface. A precision rotary joint installed on the roof provides air for the vacuum fixture.
American Gasson Corporation
The ROMER Absolute Arm 77 for high-end 3D measurement applications is an advanced portable coordinate measuring machine (PCMM). Compared with the 75 series, the scanning accuracy has increased by 20% and the probe accuracy has increased by 15%. Offering five sizes from 2.5m to 4.5m measuring volume, the 77 series can be opened and used immediately without preheating or reference. The probe can be changed without recalibration. Acoustic and tactile operator feedback facilitates use in harsh workshop environments.
The standard 3,000N magnetic base provides mounting options for a variety of applications and part sizes.
The slim design of the TRIBOS-SVL tool holder extension allows precise and smooth machining of inaccessible workpiece areas. The slender design extension is strong, and the allowable runout accuracy is less than 0.003 mm.
TRIBOS-SVL can be combined with a variety of tool holders, such as Tendo hydraulic expansion tool holders, Celsio shrink tool holders, collet tool holders and TRIBOS tool holders.
The TRIBOS SVL series has a variety of clamping diameters, available in diameters from 0.3 mm to 20 mm and 0.125" to 0.75".
Nakamura-Tome NTRX-300 has a built-in loading/unloading automation system and advanced operator identification software.
The turning center adopts true opposed dual spindles; 8" A2-6 25hp or 10" A2-8 30hp. The machine also has a 25hp tool spindle at 12,000 rpm and a complete 5-axis function, is equipped with a Fanuc 31i A5 controller, and provides a large processing area for application versatility. NTRX-300 can process 10" squares on the surface of the part. Since the X-axis capacity is 5" (125mm) lower than the center stroke and the Y-axis capacity is 10" (250mm), there is no need for C-axis rotation). NTRX-300 has 104 square feet (9.66 square meters) footprint and 37,480 pounds (17,000 kg) of rigidity, there are two models to choose from: 8" (203mm) chuck, 2.5" (63.5mm) rod capacity or 10" (250mm) clamp Head with 3.15" (80mm) bar capacity. NTRX-300L with longer Z axis is also available.
The Hydromat EPIC R/T 25-12 is a chuck type rotary conveyor used for precision metal cutting of stock sizes up to 1.0" round, 0.75" hexagon and 0.50" square, with a maximum part length of 4". This machine tool uses 12 horizontal tool spindles, can accommodate up to six vertical tool spindles, and can cut up to 18 tools at a time. It also has the rigidity to handle all components and all material types within its working range. The non-rotating bar design of the system provides quiet, vibration-free operation.
The rotary multi-station modular machine tool adopts a modular system, which is composed of horizontal and vertical tool spindles rigidly mounted around the casting base to perform high-precision machining on all key surfaces. This arrangement provides versatility and flexibility for the turnkey processing system. The current version of the EPIC R/T 25-12 machine has a bar replacement stop function, which is an automatic hard stop device built into the bar feeder, which further optimizes the bar by providing an accurate position reference for the end of the new bar Location. Then the countdown starts based on the known fixed distance.
The updated 2-axis programmable flange provides an extended stroke of up to ±30 mm for offset features, rotating outer and inner diameter grooves, thread milling, chamfering, and in-process deburring, thereby eliminating expensive secondary operations.
The Norton Century45 centerless bonding platform has chemical properties that can improve particle retention in the grinding wheel and is used for porous grinding wheel structures. The grinding wheel uses a mixture of ceramic, alumina, silicon carbide particles and abrasives, which can maximize the safety and efficiency of the user's grinding. Compared with standard products, these wheels can reduce cycle time by up to 50%, increase cutting volume by more than 30%, and increase wheel life from 30% to 100%.
Bidemics JX1 semi-finishing and finishing tools and JP2 finishing tools now include honing edge preparation (E02) for available geometries. JP2 provides a speed capability of 1,700sfm, which is 10 to 15 times faster than cemented carbide and coated multi-tip brazing blades. Compared with whisker ceramics, JX1 has a speed capability of 1,600sfm, longer tool life and better surface finish, and can cut new aerospace materials.
The Genesis 200GX threaded wheel grinder has two spindles to maximize productivity while minimizing idle and set-up time. 200GX has distortion control and polishing functions to achieve a mirror-like surface. The software-guided setting allows the operator to use only one tool to change from one workpiece to another within 20 minutes.
The high-speed H-12 machine tool is specially designed for the mold and aerospace industry. It is a bridge-type double-column CNC machining center controlled by Fanuc 31i. The machining center uses an in-line direct drive spindle to provide excellent surface finish, high precision and fast throughput. The rigid double-column design makes the main shaft close to the bridge casting, reducing overhang. The directly coupled ball screw improves accuracy, and the absolute encoder provides quick start.
Mida Diamond Touch Probes for part inspection include piezoelectric technology for measuring performance. The probe can be used for wired transmission, optical transmission and radio transmission.
The Mida Diamond Visual Tool Setter (VTS) for tool inspection uses a camera to detect tool dimensions, especially the dimensions of micro tools, and for complex measurements. VTS can be used with dedicated measurement software to check various tools and provide repeatability less than 1µm.
The Mida Diamond detection line reduces processing and inspection time, improves production efficiency, reduces production waste, and provides stable processing quality.
The hinged steel conveyor belt has a pork chop-shaped side wing carrying wall for a flush, anti-clogging conveyor belt. The system is used for demanding metal processing, manufacturing scrap and parts handling and transportation. The side wings are welded together by 0.25" thick Exten Steel with higher tensile strength, with tight tolerances, forming a tight, gap-free chain bearing side wall.
The QLS (Quick Positioning System) fixing plate is designed for use with Jergens' Ball-Lock quick change system. Through the connection with Ball-Lock, QLS allows users to add the scope of the Fixture-Pro system.
The combination of Fixture-Pro's modular workpiece fixture and Ball-Lock can double the productivity. The design provides users with a system that can be changed in a few seconds-even between machines. The Ball-Lock base plate is mounted directly on the machine table and provides a connection to the new QLS system, which in turn connects to almost any combination of Fixture-Pro risers, adapters and top tools.
Tool Architect allows users to specify drilling tool configurations by identifying and specifying drilling tool configurations based on input specifications. The system allows users to enter multiple tool configurations and virtually build complete tool components and create 2D and 3D models for viewing.
Viper PG5 has a high-wall, gantry-type, synchronous 5-axis double-column vertical machining center for large and heavy workpieces. The system uses 2-axis milling heads and 5-axis machining to achieve efficient manufacturing.
The machining center has a built-in 60hp, 15,000rpm, HSK A100 spindle, a maximum table load of 115,000 pounds, and a usable table size of up to 137" x 236".
German INA roller linear guides on all three linear axes provide high rigidity and fast feed rates.
PG5 uses Hiwin C3 class ball screw. X-axis and Z-axis use double ball screws, and all linear axes use ball screws with a cooling system to avoid heat generation due to the movement of the ball screws. Ball screw cooling improves dynamic 3-axis performance by maintaining a constant temperature.
As the commercial aviation aftermarket continues to grow exponentially, Airbus has released its first Global Service Forecast (GSF), predicting that the cumulative value of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) activities will exceed $1.8 trillion by 2035. Airbus predicts that MRO spending will grow from $53 billion to more than $132 billion every year, with an average annual growth rate of 4.6%.
After-sales service activities are related to the growth of passenger aircraft-the number of passenger aircraft is expected to increase from 19,500 commercial aircraft with more than 100 seats at the end of 2015 to nearly 40,000 in 2035.
Airbus GSF expects to train approximately 540,000 new technicians to perform airframe, engine and component services. The Asia-Pacific region will represent the largest portion of the market for MRO activities and the demand for newly qualified pilots and technicians, while Europe and North America together will account for approximately one-third of the total MRO market spending. www.airbus.com
Safran Aircraft Engines officials have signed a three-year material maintenance agreement with Unison Industries to support the maintenance of the CFM56 engine produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and General Electric.
The agreement is valid until 2019 and covers ignition and power generation components to support Safran aircraft engines' MRO locations in France, Belgium, Morocco and Mexico.
Unison President Giovanni Spitale said: "This agreement strengthens Unison's key relationship with world leaders in engine manufacturing and service." www.unisonindustries.com; www.safran-group.com
PPG has been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to repair the sliding and rear fixed cockpit windows of Airbus A320 series jetliners. The approval authorizes PPG to repair any glass window assembly produced by any manufacturer for Airbus A318, A319, A320 and A321 aircraft and the recently launched new engine option (neo) series.
Approved procedures include replacing glass panels with new PPG window panels, and reusing and refurbishing frame holders from PPG or other suppliers. PPG performs repairs at its facility in Huntsville, Alabama, where it operates an FAA-licensed repair station and manufactures original equipment and replacement parts.
The cockpit side windows provided by PPG for the A320 series are designed with glass panels and retainers. As a complete assembly using different components, the glass panels can be replaced by reusing the airworthy retainer. www.ppgaerospace.com
Aerospace Manufacturing and Design welcomes all airplane lovers to join the fun and name that airplane! A new aircraft will be launched in each issue. Give a photo and a prompt box to encourage readers to guess the aircraft being described and submit their answers to www.AerospaceManufacturingAndDesign.com/NameThatPlane.
Chris Caudana, Contract Manager, California Screw Products Company, Paramount, California
I started selling cherry rivets for the Texas company (standard parts and equipment) in 1985 and it has been 31 years.
I have always been fascinated by all types of airplanes, and I'm sure I got it from my father. He loves everything about aviation and has always wanted to be a pilot, but his eyesight is not good enough. I fondly remember the many hours of building models with him when I was young.
It's too much, but Lockheed SR-71 stands out. Kelly Johnson's 1950s design still "officially" maintains the speed record, which is indeed impressive.
To participate in the competition, please visit www.AerospaceManufacturingAndDesign.com/NameThatPlane and fill in the registration form provided. Only the completed form is eligible.
The registration deadline for this contest is October 3, 2016. The winners will be announced in the November/December 2016 issue.
Have fun and good luck!
For the complete rule set, please visit www.AerospaceManufacturingAndDesign.com/NameThatPlane.
Enter now and win your high-quality copy of the desktop plane!