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http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/sub_contract/tital/press7.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:45:06 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/sub_contract/tital/press7.html TITAL Approved for Casting Factor 1.0 by Airbus Germany Use of Titanium-Investment Castings with Casting Factor 1.0 for Airbus Germany, A380-parts Although castings have been found to be cost-effective already during the 1950's, their usage in critical aircraft structures was limited due to the imposition of a margin of safety. In those early days of casting technology poor controls over the material composition and casting processes resulted in parts with entrapped gas or inclusions. Lack of process control produced castings with shrinkage, cold-shuts, and hot-tears. Many parts had coarse, non-uniform microstructure and chemical segregation. These defects caused high variabilities in the mechanical properties of castings. This led to the introduction of an added margin of safety for castings, or a casting factor, that is still widely-used today in the design of cast components despite the advancements and achievements that have been made. in casting technology alongside the increased reliability and quality of cast parts. This is true especially for titanium investment castings as the melting process used is very advanced and hot isostatic pressing as well as appropriate heat treatment lead to near-wrought properties, including fatigue resistance and ductility. TITAL® has performed a determination of the coefficients of variation on TiAl6V4 castings on more than 250 representative casting parts. This included the investigation of the influence of chemistry, weld repair, as well as the level of discontinuities with regard to the variability of static properties. The critical process parameters and their control have been summarized and frozen. The same applies to the hot isostatic pressing and heat treatment parameters, as well as to the casting process. Consequently, Airbus Germany approved TITAL® to manufacture titanium cast parts with Casting Factor 1.0 for the A380 aircraft, resulting in significant savings in weight, time and cost for the customer. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/entertainment/inflight/press3.html Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:44:42 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/entertainment/inflight/press3.html IFPL Wins Queen's Award for Enterprise: International Trade UK based IFE specialist IFPL (Inflight Peripherals Limited) is celebrating a tremendous achievement after being awarded the Queen's Award for Enterprise: International Trade: 2008, which was announced on 21st April, the Queen's Birthday. Each year The Queen's Awards are presented in three categories to around 140 companies. IFPL's award is for demonstrating continuous achievement in International Trade. It is one of the most coveted of all industry awards in the UK and its prestigious status is recognised around the World. Later in the year, IFPL representatives will be invited to Buckingham Palace to meet Her Majesty The Queen and HRH Prince Philip. Geoff Underwood, who began IFPL in 1997 with a visit to WAEA Orlando, said: "It is a great honour to be given such a prestigious award. IFPL is proud to be a supplier to many of the World's major airlines, as well as all of the major IFE suppliers, and we are grateful for their trust in our abilities, and their continued business that has helped us achieve this major award". IFPL first introduced its Long Life Audio Jack in 1999. This reliable jack has been tested to 100,000 headset insertions. From this beginning, the company now boasts a range of over 35 innovative passenger interface products including IFPL's Rapid fit range of quick change audio jacks, as well as PCUs, handsets, USB, Ethernet and noise cancellation headset connectors. The company has recently launched its multi-media docking stations and is extending its business within the executive jet market. "With only 85 companies in the UK receiving Awards in this category we are understandably delighted to have been recognised in this way, and it positions us as one of the top performing businesses in the UK. This outstanding performance has been achieved by providing innovative, well engineered solutions to meet our customer's requirements quickly and with a high level of quality control." http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press14.html Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:04:30 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press14.html New Compact 5V MIL-STD-1553 Transformer Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, the leader in military and high-reliability aerospace magnetics, is introducing the MLP-2205 - a compact 0.4in x 0.4in footprint, 0.185in maximum height single channel transformer. A pair of MLP-2205 transformers can be used for dual channel applications, yielding an overall footprint that is smaller than industry-available dual transformers. The MLP-2205 is available in ratios compatible with 3.3, 5, 12, and 15V transceivers. The 0.185in height makes it particularly attractive for today's smaller MIL-STD-1553 board topologies and has ratios to meet both transformer coupled and direct coupled applications. The MLP-2205 uses a robust header-style design which meets all the requirements of the MIL-PRF-21038 specification. It operates over the full Mil-temp range of -55°C to +130°C. This series is also available using tape and reel packaging. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press13.html Wed, 16 Apr 2008 10:53:15 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press13.html New Low Profile 3.3V MIL-STD-1553 Transformer Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, the leader in military and high reliability aerospace magnetics, is introducing a low profile transformer. The LVB-4203 is a MIL-STD-1553 data bus transformer for use with 3.3V transceivers. It is built and tested to MIL-PRF-21038 with M-Level and T-Level screening options. Operating range is -55°C to +130°C. It has a low profile 0.130In height with a 0.625In x 0.625In footprint. The LVB-4203 Series offers robust SMT and Through-hole configurations. These transformers meet the demanding requirements of both mission critical military and high reliability commercial applications. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/maintenance/almaty/press8.html Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:40:40 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/maintenance/almaty/press8.html First Overhaul of Boeing 757-200 in Republic of Kazakhstan For the first time an overhaul of a Boeing757-200 aircraft was carried out in the Republic of Kazakhstan. On 2nd of April 2008 Aviation Technical Centre of Almaty International Airport LLP finished C1-Check on B757-200 aircraft of the Air Italy airline. Before this event at the Aviation Technical Centre of Almaty International Airport LLP the base maintenance checks were performed on Boeing737-200/300/400/500. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/lantal/press10.html Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:30:15 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/lantal/press10.html Peerless Soft Interior Competence Lantal Textiles, the leading single-source provider of soft interiors for the aviation industry, is demonstrating its key strengths as a true one-stop-shop at Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg from April 1 to 3, 2008. At Stand 4C1 in Hall A4, visitors will find the latest innovations for peerless, support-backed soft interior solutions. A specialty is Lantal's new carpet quality with a self-adhesive backing - one of the first carpets worldwide that is qualified for the B787 Dreamliner. Representing the full scope of its comprehensive all-in-one philosophy, Lantal is showcasing its latest innovations and developments in textiles, ready-made products, design competence, lab services, and pneumatic seat cushions. As a production organization according to EASA regulations Part 21, Subpart G, Lantal is able to provide an EASA Form One with each physical delivery of ready-made parts. INTRODUCING THE CONCEPTIONAL FORECAST 2008 Lantal's design team is introducing the Conceptional Forecast 2008 for fabrics and carpets to provide design inspiration for its customers. The focus lies on close-ups of designs and translates the idea of zooming in on details into inimitable textile creations. Lantal's designers experimented with glossy and mouline materials and combined warm discreet tones with trendy effect colors. New materials and varying structures, small repeats, grid patterns, and overlapping effects produce an exciting overall impression. Flat woven and chenille fabrics are embossed to emulate a 3D effect with their interplay of patterns and structures. High/deep impressions are also the main focus of the carpets that feature intriguing structures based on combining loop and cut piles or different floating weaves. Semi-transparent, pleatable curtains with delicate, generous designs play with different grades of transparency. One of the first carpet suppliers for the B787 Dreamliner A special highlight in Hamburg is Lantal's carpet with a new self-adhesive backing, devel-oped especially for the B787 Dreamliner. An initial carpet quality designed by the Swiss company has been officially qualified by Boeing for this aircraft type, making Lantal one of the first carpet suppliers able to deliver products that fulfill the B787 specification. Thus, they will be used exclusively in the first 14 aircraft deliveries, including the one for the launch customer. Furthermore, the Lantal carpet will be installed in every flight deck. The Dreamliner carpet program systematically relies on ready-to-install products to streamline their installation. For that purpose, a self-adhesive backing is applied during the production process; it leaves almost no residues on the floor panels when the carpet is replaced. These carpets are a striking example of Lantal's all-in-one philosophy, includ-ing not only premium textiles, but also their pre-cutting exactly to size and shape, installation solutions, product development and seamless customer support throughout the entire lifecycle. With these advantages, ready-made products save time and reduce installation costs as well as administrative work. Pneumatic systems: major programs approach commercialization Another novelty at the Lantal stand are three prototypes of a business class seat to demonstrate the full adaptability of pneumatic technology. For the very first time, visitors can try out and compare the exceptional comfort of the pneumatic cushions in various seat positions. The firmness varies from harder in the fully upright position to medium while relaxing to softer in the full-flat sleeping mode. Lantal is currently participating in commercial projects involving major European airline partners and premium seat manufacturers to integrate all-pneumatic cushion comfort systems into a novel business class full-flat seat and into a high-end first class suite, both to be launched commercially in early 2009. The cushions will play out all their advantages, from cost-saving low weight, passenger-controlled adaptive comfort, full lifetime functio-nality without degradation, and increased hygiene. Co-operations for the commercialization of the pneumatic cushion technology currently include Recaro, B/E Aerospace, Contour Premium Aircraft Seating, Jet Aviation and Dornier Technologie. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press12.html Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:48:15 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press12.html DDC Announces New Software Development Kits for Use with Multi-I/O Avionics PMC Data Device Corporation introduces newly enhanced Software Development Kits (SDK) for MIL-STD-1553 and ARINC 429 data bus applications. The SDKs allow users to develop 'C' source code to simulate, monitor, or troubleshoot 1553 and/or 429 data buses simultaneously or independently with support for the latest operating system versions including VxWorks® 6, Linux® 2.6, and Windows® 2000/XP. These SDKs enable users to quickly integrate DDC's multi-protocol avionics PMC (BU-65590F/M) into their 'C' code applications. A common SDK exists across all operating systems allowing the programmer portability across multiple platforms. The easy-to-use high-level functions abstract all low-level hardware accesses and memory allocation such that specific hardware knowledge is not required. The BU-65590F/M is a multi-protocol PMC card that provides up to four dual redundant MIL-STD-1553 channels, sixteen ARINC 429 receive channels, six ARINC 429 transmit channels, six user programmable Digital Discrete I/Os, two RS-232 Serial I/O channels, two RS-422/485 Serial I/O channels, and an IRIG-B time synchronization input. Each 1553 channel supports new standard features such as 1 MB RAM with parity per channel, 48-bit/1ìs or 100ns time tag, and built-in self-test. An intelligent hardware offload engine provides extremely low PCI bus and host CPU utilization while storing 1553 Monitor data in a convenient IRIG-106 Chapter 10 format. The industry standard IRIG-106 Chapter 10 format is commonly used for digital flight data recorders. The card can be ordered with either rear or front panel I/O and is available for convection or conduction cooled applications. "The combination of multiple protocols on one board saves valuable PMC slots for applications that use a combination of 1553, 429, and serial data buses," said Mike Hegarty, DDC's MIL-STD-1553 Marketing Manager. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press10.html Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:42:31 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press10.html New Miniature Switchmode Transformer, 0.7W Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, the leader in military and high-reliability aerospace magnetics, is introducing a new line of custom low power switchmode transformers. The new EE5 is just 0.195In high, 0.309In wide and 0.240In long. It is designed and built to meet the ruggedized requirements of MIL-PRF-27 necessary for high reliability aerospace and military systems. The EE5 can deliver 0.7W at 100kHz. Custom electrical specifications are available. Typical applications include switching power supplies, point of load converters, power over Ethernet, DC-DC converters, gate drives, and current transformers. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press9.html Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:14:23 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press9.html DDC Announces New Eight Channel MIL-STD-1553 PMC Industry's first eight-channel 1553 PMC with 1MB RAM per channel and IRIG-106 Chapter 10 recording capability Data Device Corporation has introduced a new MIL-STD-1553 PMC board (BU-65578F/Mx) that provides up to eight dual redundant MIL-STD-1553 channels, eight user-programmable digital discrete I/Os, eight user-programmable avionics level (+35V) Discrete I/Os, an IRIG-B time synchronization input, and an IRIG-B time generator. The card can be ordered with either rear or front panel I/O and is available for convection or conduction cooled applications. DDC's new Extended Enhanced Mini-ACE® Architecture is utilized for the 1553 interface. An evolution of DDC's field-proven, industry standard Enhanced Mini-ACE Architecture, the new E²MA architecture builds upon previous generations of DDC products while maintaining full API compatibility. Each 1553 channel supports new standard features such as 1 MB RAM with parity per channel, 48-bit/1ìs or 100nS time tag, and built-in self-test. An intelligent hardware offload engine provides extremely low PCI bus and host CPU utilization while storing 1553 monitor data in a convenient IRIG-106 chapter 10 format. The industry-standard IRIG-106 Chapter 10 format is commonly used for digital flight data recorders. "The card's high channel count saves PMC sites allowing for smaller and lighter systems as well as lower power consumption per channel," said Mike Hegarty, DDC's MIL-STD-1553 Marketing Manager. The card includes DDC's MIL-STD-1553 Plus 'C' Software Development Kit (SDK), which allows users to develop 'C' source code to simulate, monitor, or troubleshoot 1553 data buses with support for the latest operating system versions including VxWorks® 6, Linux®. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press11.html Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:05:54 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press11.html Data Device Corporation (DDC) Introduces New Six-Channel Synchro, Half-Size PCI Card Data Device Corporation, a leading international supplier of high-reliability data interface products for military and commercial aerospace applications, announces the release of the new SB-3624x Synchro Angle Position Indicator 'API' half-size PCI card. The card features six input channels with an onboard reference oscillator and optional transformer isolation all on a single half-size PCI card. "What makes this card valuable to our customers is its ideal compatibility with new desktop computers, that often use 3.3v PCI bus and lack bay dimensions for full-size cards," stated DDC's Senior Product Marketing Specialist, Roger Tomassi. The SB-3624x offers accuracies to 1 arc minute with 1 LSB repeatability, and incorporates programmable features such as resolution and bandwidth, allowing users to custom configure via software for the best dynamic responses. The card auto configures for universal signaling of 5V or 3.3V, while a built-in test output monitors for loss of signal, loss of reference frequency, or loss of tracking. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press8.html Tue, 01 Apr 2008 11:39:44 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press8.html New Low Profile MIL-STD-1553 Dual Transformer Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, the leader in military and high-reliability aerospace magnetics, is introducing a new ultra-low profile 0.130In maximum height dual transformer. The DSS Series has a side-by-side configuration and the same footprint of its predecessor, the DSS-1000 Series. The DSS-2000 series is available in ratios compatible with 3.3, 5.0, 12, and 15V transceivers. The 0.130In height makes it particularly attractive for today's smaller MIL-STD-1553 board topologies and has ratios to meet both long and short stub applications. The DSS-2000 Series uses a robust header-style design which meets all the requirements of the MIL-PRF-21038 specification. It operates over the full Mil-temp range of -55°C to +130°C. This series is also available using tape and reel packaging. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/emteq/press30.html Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:46:01 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/emteq/press30.html EMTEQ's QUASAR Mood Lighting Now for Wide-Body Aircraft EMTEQ a leading provider of cabin comfort and integrated avionics systems and services, has released one of its most advanced wash lighting products-the ELW71 QUASAR LED (Light-Emitting Diode) Mood Lighting System. Ideal for wide-body corporate and VIP customizations, the system uses technologically advanced COB (chip-on-board) technology. The ELW71 QUASAR LED system supports numerous color- and mood-affecting properties: Generates up to 16 million colors to match and accentuate an aircraft's interior with impressive white-color control in 50K (Kelvin) increments within the warm to cool spectrum State-of-the-art color feedback and color correction ensures greater color consistency over time to significantly reduce the visible effects of fading Sunrise/sunset and dynamic effect modes. Each circuit board is individually addressable and programmable to allow for unique custom control options to create color patterns which mimic weather or light effects (moving clouds) or other custom programmed patterns The high CRI (color rendering index) ensures true and bright white light output to accentuate interior features Lighting sections can be controlled separately to create or enhance atmospheres appropriate for work or relaxation purposes 100% dimmable and functions at 28 VDC nominal, 18-32 VDC operating QUASAR engineering lead Cory Wasniewski, describes other technically appealing features: "The QUASAR ELW71 system is capable of integrating with most cabin management systems. We also improved the mounting track design to reduce weight - always a consideration when modifying an aircraft." http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/emteq/press29.html Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:05:15 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/emteq/press29.html EMTEQ Releases 115VAC Wide Body Wash LED Light Wide-body Aircraft Warm up to EMTEQ's 115 VAC Interior Wash Light Phosphor technology ensures warmer, brighter light output. EMTEQ a leading provider of cabin comfort and integrated avionics systems and services, introduces one of its newest, technologically advanced wash light products for wide-body aircraft applications-their new 115VAC wash light, designed specifically to accommodate large cabin interiors for the air transport and VIP aircraft markets. EMTEQ's 115VAC wide-body wash light integrates seamlessly with existing on-aircraft power systems, draws less current and includes built-in step-dimming capability, eliminating the need for external dimmer modules. The use of phosphor technology means that aesthetically, this product emits light that is warmer and more consistent than similar industry offerings, emitting light as warm as 3,600K (Kelvin). Explained Product Development Director Matt Trotter: "This product is well-suited to replace fluorescent tubes and fluorescent ballasts, providing a fresh new look on an older aircraft." Ideal applications include Boeing 737, 747, 757 models and Airbus A320 and A330s and as a retrofit option on larger VIP jets. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press6.html Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:26:23 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press6.html Data Device Corporation (DDC) and Dynapar Partner for Comprehensive Position Sense Solutions Data Device Corporation (DDC), a leading international supplier of high-reliability data interface products for military and commercial aerospace applications, is pleased to announce a new partnership with Dynapar, a prominent manufacturer of resolvers and encoders. Together these two companies, with decades of experience in position sense, have demonstrated interoperability of their products and now offer comprehensive 14-bit resolution solutions for position sensing applications demanding high repeatability. Optimum performance is obtained by combining DDC's RD- 19240 resolver-to-digital converter, which is highly repeatable to 1 LSB in 14-bit mode, with Dynapar's HaroMax light weight aluminum housing, size 15 resolver rated to 155 degrees C. Programmable features of the resolver-to-digital converter, such as resolution, bandwidth, and tracking rate, allow for best dynamic configurability, while a built-in test output monitors for loss of signal, reference frequency, or tracking. Data Device Corporation (DDC) is recognized as a leading international supplier of highreliability data interface products, motion control, and solid-state power controllers for military and industrial applications for over 40 years. DDC's broad product line consists of advanced data bus technology for high-speed Ethernet and Fibre Channel networks, MIL-STD-1553. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press5.html Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:09:19 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/electronic/data_device/press5.html New Low Profile MIL-STD-1553 Dual Transformer Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, the leader in Military and High Reliability Aerospace Magnetics, is introducing a new ultra low profile 0.130in maximum height, dual transformer. The DSS Series has a side-by-side configuration and the same footprint of its predecessor, the DSS-1000 Series. The DSS-2000 Series is available in ratios compatible with 3.3, 5.0, 12, and 15 Volt transceivers. The 0.130in height makes it particularly attractive for today's smaller MIL-STD-1553 board topologies and has ratios to meet both long and short stub applications. The DSS-2000 Series uses a robust header-style design which meets all the requirements of the MIL-PRF-21038 specification. It operates over the full Mil-temp range of -55°C to +130°C. This series is also available using tape and reel packaging. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/aviation/mpm-aviation Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/aviation/mpm-aviation MPM Aviation Group MPM Aviation Group (MPMAG) provides quality aviation technical-asset management services for operators, leasing companies, maintenance providers, financial institutes and owners of regional jets, turbo-prop aircraft, and narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. Our quality service includes aircraft technical-asset management, aircraft portfolio management and aircraft risk-management on a worldwide basis. Our expertise ranges from regional jets, up to and including wide-body aircraft. MPMAG have delivered services involving the following airframe types: Bombardier Aircraft (DHC8 series), Fokker Aircraft (Fokker F50 and F100), Airbus (A319, A320, A321, A330 and A340) and Boeing (B717, B737 series, B747-400, B757, B767 and B777). They have dealt with the following engine types: General Electric (CF6 and CFM56 series), Pratt & Whitney (PWC100 series and PW4000 series) and Rolls-Royce (Tay series, BR710 series and RB211 series). AIRCRAFT TECHNICAL-ASSET MANAGEMENT We provide a wide range of aircraft technical-asset management services. These include assessing the performance of aircraft production inspections (inspection and quality audits of aircraft during the various stages of aircraft production, final assembly and production delivery), as well as assessment and evaluation of aircraft maintenance programmes. Management and control of maintenance activities; management and control of aircraft configuration; and aircraft technical and commercial lease contract evaluation / assessment and negotiation are also amongst our capabilities. ENGINE MAINTENANCE AND AIRWORTHINESS ASSESSMENTS We can perform engine / APU assessment and undercarriage evaluation in order to establish configuration, condition, and maintenance status, as well as aircraft airworthiness surveillance inspections in order to establish the aircraft's compliance with Civil Aviation Authority requirements. Quality surveillance audits in order to establish compliance of maintenance organisations with established quality or contractual requirements are also possible. We provide on-site technical representation during maintenance checks – including management of maintenance packages and financial exposure – for aircraft engines, APU and undercarriages. Our maintenance skills include verification of aircraft physical condition in relation to any regulation, contract requirement, guideline or reference. Set-up and / or auditing of aircraft documentation systems is another service we provide. AIRCRAFT LEASING MANAGEMENT Our aircraft leasing management services include: Verification of aircraft documentation against lease purchase or sale contract requirements Turn-key aircraft delivery Redelivery trade-in activities through different aircraft registries Annual aircraft inspections and audits during the term of the lease Aircraft repossessions Aircraft parking, storage and re-activation activities Aircraft pre-lease and aircraft pre-purchase inspections and audits Aircraft holder ship agreements and aircraft registry changes AIRCRAFT RISK MANAGEMENT At the request of our customers, we can provide aircraft risk management services through current and future maintenance half or whole-life value audits and calculations; airline and maintenance organisation audits; maintenance liability and exposure audits; and calculations and implementation of exposure protection programmes which can be defined in close cooperation with aircraft owners. AIRCRAFT PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT We facilitate and perform aircraft portfolio management through reviewing and assessing the aircraft, engine, undercarriage, propeller and auxiliary power unit maintenance reserve claims against contractual requirements and fair (average) market value for subject maintenance. We also provide portfolio management through managing the scheduling of so-called aircraft mid-life inspections for a particular fleet of aircraft in specific regions on request of aircraft owners. ABOUT MPMAG The company was founded in 2002 and experience gained during several years of working within the aviation industry and being involved with the various service providers around the globe means we provide services with a clear and structured approach. Depending on the type and the size of the project, MPM Aviation Group will form a team of dedicated and experienced professionals / specialists suitable to do the job right in every aspect. The team members are carefully selected depending on the type of aircraft and size of the project. MPM Aviation Group performs technical-asset value protection, minimising the financial exposure and liability of its customers. Whilst nurturing the interest of our customers, we strive to be a company that is recognised for a constantly high level of quality service that is used as a reference by professionals in the aviation industry. We value the satisfaction of our customers at all times and make that our first priority in guiding us on how to perform our work. It is our commitment to excellent service, innovation, creativity, honesty and integrity. Amongst MPMAG's customers today are Rolls-Royce Aircraft Management, Federal Express, EADS Munich, Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management, MyTravel Aircraft Engineering and Civil Aviation Services. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/marion Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/marion Marion Aircraft Marion Aircraft is a full service aircraft interior products company. We offer a wide variety of hand-selected leather and fabrics ready for immediate shipment. We offer a comprehensive range of FAA approved aircraft interior materials and products: from wall coverings and flooring materials, to wool fabrics, fine European leather, sheepskin and nylon mesh. All of our products are tested and shipped with proper certification. Marion Aircraft has been in business since 1947. Our driving concept is a combination of superior products, competitive pricing and prompt delivery. COMPLETE LINE OF AIRCRAFT INTERIOR PRODUCTS Marion Aircraft wants their customers to have one place that they can come to for all their aircraft interior product requirements. To achieve this, we have a full line of fabrics, vinyl, 16 colors of leather in stock, headliner material, sheepskin, wall covering, and flooring products. CERTIFIED AIRCRAFT CARPET We work with several carpet mills, which can supply any type of carpet for fitting in aircraft: from high use commercial to beautiful custom designs. Based in California, USA, Marion Aircraft has worked extensively with international customers and is very effective in getting the customers' shipments sent out with the paperwork needed to allow for a timely delivery. AIRCRAFT INTERIOR FABRICS Our fabric selections include wool, wool blends, Trevira FR, Avora and Grospoint. AIRCRAFT LEATHER INTERIORS Marion Aircraft carries a line of fine European leather - available in 16 colors, flame-proofed, in stock, ready for shipment the day of your order. We also offer custom color leather. We will match any color you specify and will have a strike-off to you within five days. SPECIALTY PRODUCTS AND CUSTOM AIRCRAFT INTERIORS Marion Aircraft also carries three colors of burl structure, three colors of nylon mesh, eight colors of sheepskin, a selection of metal wall coverings, and pack cloth. These materials all have specialized uses and are carried in stock for quick shipment and your convenience. Custom orders are encouraged and can be filled quickly. We follow your order through every phase from processing to delivery to you. All our products meet all FAA safety requirements. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/axminster Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/contractors/interiors/axminster Axminster Carpets Axminster Carpets Ltd is one of the most respected names in the carpet industry and has a first-class reputation for quality carpet production throughout the world. Axminster brings over 60 years of design and technical expertise to create bespoke carpets for all types of passenger aircraft. The group has four production sites across Europe along with a sales office based in North America. We have an enviable list of clients including over ten major international flag-carriers, as well as numerous regional and continental airline operators who all recognise the quality and durability of our specifically engineered aircraft carpets. AIRCRAFT CARPET MANUFACTURING CAPABILITY Our machinery is state-of-the-art, which ensures that we can offer aircraft carpets in various exacting specifications. Now manufacturing both wool and nylon options, Axminster has become one of the most versatile weavers of specialist Wilton carpets for the aviation industry with and annual capacity is in excess of 1,000,000m². AIRCRAFT CARPET DESIGN CAPABILITIES We pride ourselves on our ability to meet the requirements of our clients. Our understanding of weight/fuel ratios and extensive developments at every stage of production have helped us to engineer a wide range of specifications that offer valuable operational cost savings without compromising on quality or performance. Latest yarn developments can deliver twice the durability when compared with other suppliers' carpets. We adopt a flexible approach to carpet design and, using CAD systems, our specialised in-house designers will create fresh and inspired schemes that will complement your cabin interior and push the boundaries of surface pattern design. We provide a prompt, efficient and highly flexible service with the ability to quickly supply yarn samples for colour selection and final approval, helping to realise the ultimate aircraft interior look. INNOVATORS IN AIRLINE CARPET DESIGN We recognise the need for constant innovation in airline carpet design and have developed a variety of options which widen the scope for both cost and operational savings. Our products are engineered to meet the requirements of the individual airline and help them to realise their competitive advantages. Contact us for more detailed information of how we can enhance your aircraft cabin interior appearance and help to make the carpet a more functional component rather than just a capital expense. Stain-resistant carpets, anti-microbial treatments and light-weight specification are all available. OFF-THE-SHELF CARPET AVAILABILITY We offer off-the-shelf carpet specifically developed to represent current trends, which is available ex-stock with no MOQs. There are 14 different options which can be easily coordinated to help simplify your interior scheme. Please see our website for the Pegasus II range. It is fully certified to meet all current requirements UKAS-APPROVED FLAMMABILITY TESTING Axminster Carpets' production facility operates within the BS EN ISO 9001:2000 quality management system and we are the only UK carpet manufacturer to be awarded AS/EN9100 revision B accreditation. Our laboratory holds EASA approval to test and issue our own certification to FAR 25: 853 and Airbus standard ABD0031. We also hold ISO 14001 environmental certification for our yarn processing plant. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/discovery/ Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/discovery/ NASA Space Shuttle Orbiter Vehicles The space shuttle is the family of manned launch vehicles used by NASA to place payloads and crews into low earth orbit. The first space shuttle was launched in April 1981. The first orbiter was the Enterprise which was a non-orbital test vehicle. There are three operational orbiter manned launch vehicles: Atlantis, Discovery and Endeavor. Two orbiter launch vehicles were destroyed: Challenger was destroyed at launch in January 1986 and Columbia was destroyed on re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere in February 2003. The orbiter spacecraft is attached to two solid fuel rocket boosters which are recovered after launch and one external liquid-fuelled propellant tank that is ejected and not recovered. The orbiter space vehicle also has three main engines. SHUTTLE MISSIONS "There are three operational orbiter manned launch vehicles: Atlantis, Discovery and Endeavor." The shuttle missions, from lift-off to landing, take typically between seven and 14 days. The three main stages of the mission are the launch and ascent into orbit, the orbit and mission activities, and then the re-entry and landing. One of the main missions of the orbiter spacecraft is the delivery of systems and supplies to the International Space Station. Atlantis, Endeavor and Discovery successfully completed three missions during 2007. In February 2008, the Atlantis orbiter transported the European Space Agency (ESA) Columbus science laboratory to the International Space Station (ISS), which was then installed by the crew. In March 2008, Endeavour delivered the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's new laboratory module, Kibo, to the ISS. ORBITER SPACE VEHICLE The orbiter vehicle, built by Boeing Space Systems Division in Downey, California, is of mainly aluminium alloy construction. The propellant tank and the rocket boosters are jettisoned during ascent and only the orbiter space vehicle goes into orbit. The orbiter space vehicle has swept double delta wings with four elevons and a swept vertical stabiliser with a rudder speed brake. Fairchild was responsible for the manufacture of the stabiliser tail. General Dynamics manufactured the centre fuselage section. PAYLOAD BAY The fuselage is fitted with a very large payload or cargo bay approximately 18.3m in length and 4.6m wide. The three Orbiter space vehicles have the capability of carrying payloads up to 24,400kg and delivering them into a low earth orbit. "The orbiter spacecraft is attached to two solid fuel rocket boosters." A remote manipulator arm is installed in the payload bay. The arm is finely controlled to move large pieces of equipment into and out of the payload bay. Thermal radiators on the inner surface of the payload bay doors radiate collected heat into space and form part of the shuttle's temperature control system. CREW COMPARTMENT The 65.8m³ crew compartment is in the forward fuselage. The support systems for the crew compartment, including the fuel cells and gas tanks, are also installed in the forward fuselage. Hamilton Sundstrand developed and supplied the life support systems. The crew use a movable airlock which is in the crew compartment or in the cargo bay in order to carry out spacewalks. The crew compartment is configured in three decks. The top deck is the flight deck which accommodates the cockpit and pilot's seat, the commander's station, and an aft control station. The glass cockpit is fitted with an 11-panel full-colour display Multifunction Electronic Display System (MEDS). The aft control station houses the controls and displays for docking and rendezvous manoeuvring, for the operation of the manipulator arm and for managing the deployment of payloads. The middle deck houses the crew's sleeping area, storage lockers, crew services and the galley. The lower deck houses the services and equipment bay. COMMUNICATIONS AND NAVIGATION The orbiters use satellite communications operating at S and Ku bands. The S-band communications link carries voice, command and telemetry data. The higher bandwidth Ku-band link carries video and data. The space-walkers use UHF communications. The orbiter is equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a suite of gyroscopes supplied by Northrop Grumman Electronics and Systems Integration for measuring attitude. "The shuttle missions, from lift-off to landing, take typically between seven and 14 days." FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS There are five AP-101S data processing and flight control computers from Loral Federal Systems at Bethesda, which monitor and control the orbiter systems. The orbiters are fitted with Honeywell four-channel fly-by-wire flight control systems. ENGINES The orbiter's three main engines, manufactured by the Rocketdyne Division of Boeing at Canoga Park, California and each weighing 3,039kg, are installed at the rear of the fuselage in a triangular configuration. The engines are 4.3m in length and the engine nozzle is 2.3m in diameter. The engines are gimbal mounted to provide control over the direction of thrust of the engines. The engines use liquid hydrogen fuel and liquid oxygen as the oxidiser, which is stored in the external fuel tank. The engines burn the fuel in two stages, in the first chamber and then in the main combustion chamber. The exhausted water vapour from each engine generates up to 2.09 million Newtons of thrust. ORBITAL MANOEUVRING SYSTEM The vehicle's orbital manoeuvring system (OMS), supplied by Boeing, is used to manoeuvre the vehicle into orbit, to carry out adjustments to the orbit and to change orbit, for example to carry out a docking manoeuvre. The system is contained in two housing pods located on the sides of the vertical stabiliser tail. The OMS pods contain the hypergolic engines which burn monomethyl hydrazine fuel (CH2NHNH2) and nitrogen tetroxide (N2O4) as the oxidiser. Each engine can produce a thrust of 26,400N. The fuel and oxidiser tanks are pressurised by helium. The orbital manoeuvres are carried out by firing one or both of the OMS engines. The attitude (direction of pointing) of the orbiter vehicle is adjusted or changed using the vehicle's Reaction Control System (RCS) designed and manufactured by Boeing. Changes to the vehicle's attitude are necessary for pointing telescopes and other research instruments and for deploying satellite payloads. "The orbiters use satellite communications operating at S and Ku bands." The orbital manoeuvring system pods on either side of the tail house the rear set of reaction control system engines. The forward reaction control system is installed in the nose of the orbiter. The reaction control system has 14 jet thrusters which burn monomethyl hydrazine fuel and nitrogen tetroxide oxidiser. EXTERNAL FUEL TANK The large external fuel tank is designed and manufactured by Lockheed Martin at the NASA Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans. The tank carries two million litres of propellant, the liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen fuel for the orbiter's three main engines. The fuel tank is approximately 48m in length and 8.4m in diameter. The external fuel tank is of aluminium and aluminium composites construction. The liquid hydrogen fuel and the liquid oxygen oxidiser are held in two tanks within the external fuel tank. Baffles are installed inside the tanks in order to dampen the movement and momentum of t http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/a350wxb/ Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/a350wxb/ Airbus A350 XWB Airbus announced the A350 aircraft, a longer-range and lighter derivative of the A330 aircraft, in 2004. Following a reassessment of market requirements, Airbus announced the larger and heavier A350 XWB extra-wide-bodied aircraft in December 2006. The aircraft will be available from 2013. The passenger versions are being developed in three variants: the A350-800 for 270 passengers; A350-900 for 314 passengers; and A350-1000 for 350 passengers in a typical three-class seating arrangement. An ultra-long-range version, the A350-900R and a freighter version, the A350-900F are also being developed. The aircraft will also be offered in an Airbus Corporate Jetliner (ACJ) variant, the A350 XWB Prestige. By January 2008, Airbus had received firm orders for 338 A350 XWB aircraft, 135 for the -800, 163 for the -900 and 40 for the -1000. Customers include: Aeroflot (22), Afriqiyah (six), Air Europa (ten), Alafco (12), Bangkok Airways (four), China Airlines (14), CIT (seven), Emirates (70), Finnair (11), ILFC (20), Kingfisher (five), Pegasus Aviation (two), Qatar (80), Singapore Airlines (20), TAM (22), TAP (12), US Airways (22) and Yemenia (ten). A350 XWB CONSTRUCTION "The A350 aircraft is a longer-range and lighter derivative of the A330 aircraft." The aircraft is of 45% lightweight high-strength composite construction, and 55% low-density aluminium lithium alloy, steel, aluminium and titanium. The wings are of metal-ribbed, three-spar, Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) construction. The wingspan is 64m and the wing sweep is 35°. The A350 XWB fly-by-wire system is similar to that on the A320, A340 and A380 aircraft families. The handling and flight deck commonality allows airlines the benefit of cross crew qualification and mixed-fleet flying with smooth introduction into service. The aircraft is fitted with Moog primary flight control actuators and a Rockwell Collins horizontal stabiliser activator. FLIGHT DECK The flight deck accommodates two pilots and is fitted with a head-up display, an A380 onboard information system, an onboard airport navigation system, a dual integrated standby instrument system. In January 2008, Thales was selected to provide the A350 XWB avionics and cockpit systems, to include the integrated modular avionics suite, interactive control and display systems and air data and inertial reference unit Honeywell was selected in March 2008 to supply the Flight Management System (FMS) and Aircraft Environment Surveillance System (AESS). The AESS combines Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), mode-S transponders and RDR-400 weather radar. The RDR-4000 has also been selected for the Airbus A380 and for the US C-17 and Japanese C-X military transport aircraft. It uses pulse compression to provide simultaneous long-range and high-resolution performance and provides 3D volumetric scanning, using ground clutter extraction of the weather and terrain ahead of the aircraft. A350 CABIN The modular cabin layout can be reconfigured overnight to allow airlines flexibility to adapt for seasonal needs. "The passenger versions of the A350 XWB aircraft are being developed in three variants." The cabin is laid out with twin aisles, typically with eight abreast and six abreast seats in economy and in first class. The cabin is 5.36m wide and 46m long in the A350-800. The rest area for the eight cabin crew is installed above the rear bulk cargo hold. Honeywell has been selected to provide the environmental control management systems for cabin heating, cooling and pressurisation. CARGO The A350-800 will carry underfloor cargo of 26 standard LD3 containers or up to eight pallets and two LD3 containers. The total cargo volume is 115m³. The A350-900 will carry underfloor cargo of 11 pallets or 34 standard LD3 containers and the total cargo volume is 147m³. TRENT XWB ENGINES Rolls-Royce has developed the Trent XWB engine for the A350 XWB. Like its Trent engine predecessors, the Trent XWB is configured with a three-shaft design. The fan is expected to be of approximately 3m in diameter and the bypass ratio about 11. The engine has an integrated health-monitoring and engine-management system. The integrated Engine Health Monitoring (EHM) system for the XWB engine has additional sensors compared to the Trent 1700 and Trent 1000. The engines provide a thrust of: 333kN for the A350-800; 387kN for the A350-900; and 422kN for the A360-1000. Goodrich has been selected to supply the engine nacelles and thrust reverser systems for all variants of the A350 XWB aircraft. The fuel capacity is 150,000l. The fuel tanks are fitted with a nitrogen-inerting system. Parker Aerospace has been selected to supply the fuel system and the hydraulics power and distribution systems. LANDING GEAR In December 2007 Airbus announced that Messier Dowty had been selected as supplier for the main landing gear and Liebherr-Aerospace for the nose landing gear. The main landing gear for -800 and -900 versions will have four-wheel bogie and dual side stay, with six-wheel bogie for the -1000 variant. The main landing gear will be chrome and cadmium-free and make increased use of advanced materials such as titanium. Messier-Bugatti will supply the electronic and hydraulic landing and braking control systems. POWER GENERATION Hamilton Sundstrand will supply the aircraft's power-generation system which comprises four 100kVA, 230V variable frequency generators with control units. "By January 2008, Airbus had received firm orders for 338 A350 XWB aircraft." Honeywell is responsible for the design and supply of the HGT1700 Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), the APU installation kit and the APU starter generator. A350 PERFORMANCE The 270 passenger A350-800 has a maximum take-off weight of 245t, a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.89 and a range of 15,400km. The 314 passenger A350-900 has a maximum take-off weight of 265t, a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.89 and a range of 15,000km. The 350 passenger A350-1000 has a maximum take-off weight of 295t, a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.89 and a range of 14,800km. http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/longranger/ Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/longranger/ Bell 206L LongRanger IV - Light Helicopter, The Bell 206L LongRanger light helicopter is a stretched version of the Bell 206B JetRanger, which entered service in 1977. The current production version, the Bell 206L4 LongRanger IV, entered service in 1992. The helicopter is produced by Bell Helicopter Textron, with headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas and is manufactured at the Bell Helicopter Textron Canada plant in Mirabel, Quebec. The Bell 206L LongRanger helicopter is used for police and paramilitary missions, police patrol, offshore, emergency medical services, corporate transport, as a news helicopter and for airborne surveillance. The helicopter carries up to seven people and has a range up to 665km and cruise speed of 205km/h. The maximum endurance is 4.1 hours. Over 4800 206B JetRanger and 1700 206L LongRanger helicopters have been delivered, including over 300 of the LongRanger IV versions. "The Bell 206L LongRanger light helicopter is a stretched version of the Bell 206B JetRanger." Recent orders include the sale of 16 206L-4 LongRanger aircraft to Air Evac Services Inc in September 2007. Deliveries are scheduled for between 2009 and 2011. Bell Helicopter has developed an upgrade of 206L-3 and L-1 models to incorporate features of the L-4 including the drive train and uprated engine. The upgrade is due to be certificated in 2008. Military variants of the Bell 206 are in service with the US Army (OH-58 Kiowa armed reconnaissance helicopter and TH-67 Creek training helicopter and US Navy (OH-6 Cayuse surveillance helicopter and the TH-57 training helicopter). BELL 206L DESIGN The Bell 206L LongRanger is similar in design to the Bell 206B but with a higher powered engine and a larger cabin. Other modifications to the design include new cowlings, engine deck and mountings, a fire wall and an increased thrust tail rotor. The construction of the fuselage includes Bell's NodaMatic design of nodal beam transmission, which gives a substantial reduction in the cabin noise and vibration. There are five doors, one hinged double door and co-pilot door on the left side and the pilot door and passenger door on the right side. The helicopter is fitted with standard low-skid landing gear, but can also be fitted with high-skid gear (including AAI flight steps) or emergency flotation gear. An optional cargo hook is rated to carry a load up to 907kg. COCKPIT The helicopter is fitted with a Rockwell Collins Microline avionics suite with a dual navigation and communications system, automatic direction finder, distance measuring equipment and a marker beacon transponder. A Sfena autopilot or a Rockwell Collins AP-107H autopilot can be fitted as specified by the operator, which allows single pilot instrument flight rules operations. CABIN The cabin, 2.74m long by 1.28m wide by 1.28m high, seats up to seven people, with two crew seats, two rear-facing seats and three forward-facing seats. For corporate travel the cabin can be configured with four club-style passenger seats. The total cabin volume is 2.35m³, with a 0.45m³ (16ft³) baggage compartment. The cabin environmental control is fed by an engine bleed air system. "The Bell 206L helicopter carries up to seven people and has a range up to 665km." The forward passenger seat on the port side can be folded to allow long loads to be carried. The cabin can hold up to two stretcher patients and two seated patients or medical attendants. The port side of the cabin is fitted with double doors opening to a width of 1.52m allowing easy and fast loading of stretcher patients or large cargo. ENGINE The helicopter is powered by a Rolls-Royce Allison 250-C30P engine developing 415kW continuous power. The transmission system is rated at 325kW take-off power and 275kW continuous power. The helicopter has a rupture resistant fuel system with a maximum fuel capacity of 416l.