Jul 20 2010
Alcan Global ATI and Bombardier, one of the world's largest aircraft manufacturers, have entered into a long-term agreement for the exclusive supply of AIRWARE(TM), Alcan's advanced aluminum-lithium alloy technology, to provide primary structure for the all-new CSeries aircraft. AIRWARE(TM) will comprise more than 20% of all materials used in the CSeries aircraft.
CSeries aircraft
AIRWARE(TM) technology, which is based on the mastering of low density alloys, has helped Bombardier develop a high-strength, light, metallic fuselage by combining sheets and extrusions to manufacture fuselage skins, stringers, frames and floor beams. This contributes to significant improvements in aircraft operating costs, fuel consumption and emissions reduction.
"With AIRWARE(TM), we pave the way for a revolutionary utilization of aluminum-based technologies to design lighter, greener aircraft, whilst ensuring the highest level of reliability, which is a key requirement in the aerospace industry," said Christophe Villemin, Alcan Global ATI President. "Thanks to collaborative research and development, initiated with Bombardier in 2007, Alcan has been chosen as an exclusive supplier of AIRWARE(TM) for the CSeries aircraft program," continued Villemin.
Bombardier's single-aisle CSeries aircraft, which is designed for the 100- to 149-seat market segment, is expected to offer a 15* per cent cash operating cost advantage over current in-production aircraft. Advanced materials will contribute to the CSeries aircraft's 20% fuel consumption advantage and reduced CO2 emissions.
AIRWARE(TM)'s low density, exceptional mechanical properties and inherent electrical conductivity allows significant weight reductions compared to competing materials. In addition, AIRWARE(TM)'s unparalleled corrosion resistance, strength and behaviour predictability will all contribute to easy maintenance of CSeries aircraft.
In line with Alcan and Bombardier's commitment to sustainability, AIRWARE(TM) material removed during machining can be infinitely recycled into new aircraft parts, as can all AIRWARE(TM) components when an aircraft reaches the end of its commercial life.
"This long-term agreement demonstrates Alcan's leadership and commitment to provide the aerospace industry with step-change turnkey solutions to reach ever more challenging economic and environmental objectives," concluded Villemin.