The quarterly newsletter of the Midlands Aerospace Alliance Issue 21 Winter 2010 Offshore wind industry courts Midlands aerospace

UK aerospace skills and capacity are in demand for work on projects such as the world’s largest offshore wind power installation, the £2 billion London Array wind farm. The array is one of 37 UK offshore sites earmarked for development by 2020. Some 6,000 turbines are planned. Touchdown: Boeing 787 Dreamliner ZA002, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, completes its Supplying, installing and first flight. The second example to fly, it features the livery of launch customer ANA of Japan. operating these turbines will require a manufacturing and support services industry comparable in scale to that of North Sea oil and gas. Midlands applause The potential work includes the design, tooling and manufacture of large composite structures, aerofoil/blade design, engineering testing and greets first flights analysis, gearboxes and drive train component design and manufacture, forgings and Region’s specialists support B787 and A400M castings, sensors and control systems, radar mitigation THE first flights before Christmas of new Airbus and systems from HR Smith of Leominster, Herefordshire, technology, helicopters and Boeing aircraft were milestones for a host of Midlands and heat exchangers from HS Marston of robotic vehicles (ROV), MRO aerospace companies whose specialist skills have Wolverhampton. and operations contributed to each programme’s success. Contributing manufacturing management. More than 60 Midlands companies contributed to the expertise for production of the Free help is available Airbus A400M military transport which flew in Spain on airframe and its TP400 engine are through the Department of 11 December, while a long supply chain took delight in Midlands companies Mettis Aerospace Energy and Climate Change news from Seattle that the Boeing 787 Dreamliner of Redditch, Doncasters, Premier (DECC) UK Renewables completed its maiden flight on 15 December. Aerospace of Coventry and G&O Springs, Service to identify The A400M programme involved many Midlands also of Coventry. opportunities and plan companies in supply of parts and specialist skills for Specialist engineering services were also an approach if appropriate. the aircraft’s intensive development and testing phase. supplied by Worcester’s Froude Hofmann and For more details, contact While production contracts are limited because the UK Resource Engineering Projects, also of Worcester. [email protected] is not a major buyer of the type, key Midlands product Meanwhile, the Midlands aerospace supply L www.ukrenewables.com technology capability at Tier 1 supply chain level was chain shared the achievement when Boeing’s most developed and adapted for the precise mission of the technologically advanced aircraft, the 787 A400M. This capability includes flap actuation, a Dreamliner, flew on 15 December. specialisation of Goodrich Actuation Systems of The main gateways for supply chain participation Wolverhampton, design of tyres by Aircraft in the 787 have been three of the region’s biggest Tyres of Birmingham, emergency locator transmitter Continued on page 2 22

news from the maa Stop Press: Bombardier and Boeing speak to Midlands aerospace This year’s aerospace place cluster forum takes on 23 March. The forum is sponsored by Advantage West Midlands’ Aerospace Cluster Opportunity Group Applause greets first flights The day will focus . on how companies can identify Continued from page 1 plan to win and new aerospace market opportunities. speaker Keynote names in aerospace: Derby-based Rolls- on the programme as Bombardier is already confirmed. The event will be held at the Royce – through the fuel-efficient Trent direct suppliers to other prestigious Millenium Point venue in central Birmingham. 1000 engine which powered the aircraft on major aerospace players, Meanwhile, Boeing will present on defence market its maiden flight; Aero Engine Controls, mainly in the USA. These opportunities at a 3 March iNet event (below). See www.midlandsaerospace.org.uk located in Birmingham and Derby – through include in for details. the sophisticated electronic controls for Coventry and Redditch- Trent 1000; and Moog Aircraft Group of based Mettis, which supply components to addition, Mettis Wolverhampton (formerly Smiths and GE the aircraft’s alternative GE GEnX engine supplies key components to Hamilton Aviation) – through the high-lift actuation programme, and ITP Engines UK in Sundstrand for the 787’s air management system for the aircraft’s wings. Leicester, Lincoln and Rugby which also system. Other leading Midlands companies are supports the GEnX programme. In The Trent 1000 – the fifth member of Rolls-Royce’s engine family – is itself a AEROSPACE INNOVATION SUPPORT PROGRAMME (AEISP) major programme. Many Midlands-based specialist companies which are traditional MAA work bears fruit for East Rolls-Royce suppliers are participating in it. They include Bulwell Precision Engineers, Midlands aerospace firms Bromford Industries, Burcas, C&H Precision Finishers, Clamonta, Eaton A NEW MAA support project for the East interest in that particular technology. Aerospace, G&O Springs, Jet Blades Midlands aerospace industry is yielding Businesses provide the university with Engineering, JJ Churchill Engineering and results after just a few months. expertise and advice on industry trends, Manthorpe Engineering. The aerospace innovation support and gain access to research A significant part of the Trent 1000 test programme (AeISP) run by the MAA has opportunities of which they might not programme was aimed at proving the successfully helped several East Midlands otherwise have been aware.” reliability of the new electric start and companies meet new customers and Small businesses signing up to join a power generation system as well as the suppliers, collaborate with universities, node qualify for a £1,000 grant. There is completely revised ‘more-electric’ testbed market themselves better, identify further no financial commitment for the business. facilities at Hucknall, near Derby. funding opportunities and network more The first two nodes to be set up are in Rolls-Royce selected Aero Engine effectively. composites technologies (University of Controls in Birmingham to develop a next- The programme, which is funded by Nottingham / University of Derby) and generation engine electronic control (EEC) the East Midlands Transport iNet, East precision engineering technologies system for the Trent 1000. The new EEC is Midlands Development Agency (emda) (University of Nottingham). Each already lighter, more reliable and boasts six times and the European Regional Development has a network of several businesses. the control power of earlier full authority Fund, has had notable success with “If you currently have a relationship digital engine control (FADEC) systems. fostering university/business collaboration with a university and are not receiving Aero Engine Controls suppliers in the through new ‘technology nodes’. funding, you may be eligible for a grant,” Midlands, such as Leicestershire’s Semelab, AeISP manager Stan Payne explains: said Stan. are also participating through the Trent “A university with expertise in a specific For more information, 1000 engine controls system, as are several technology acts as the node for a please contact the MAA at further firms. network of businesses with a common [email protected]. As part of its work on the 787’s high-lift actuation system, Moog set up full-scale wing rigs at its Wolverhampton site, one Technology in focus with AeISP representing each wing. As part of its mandate, the MAA’’s AeISP has already run successful events MAA chief executive Andrew Mair covering subjects as diverse as aerospace opportunities in India and China, commented: “Our unique position in the composites technology, weathering the downturn and how companies can work world aerospace industry as suppliers of more effectively with research organisations. the most technologically sophisticated Among future topics are: aircraft systems — from engines to electro- O UAV markets and technologies (28 January at Pride Park, Derby), mechanical and electronic components — O Defence markets and technologies (3 March, Coventry Chamber of Commerce) puts us in a strong position to benefit O New aerospace engine technologies (tba March) whether Airbus or Boeing is winning the O Machine tool innovation and technology (tba March). global sales war. Supplying these aircraft For details, see the MAA website www.midlandsaerospace.org.uk programmes will create business and support jobs for decades to come.” 3 aerospace in the midlands

MAA funds joint industry-university tyre research

THE MAA has awarded £120,000 funding It will explore ways in which modelling can Development Fund and Advantage West for research into modelling technology that improve the design process for aircraft tyres Midlands. could reduce the time and cost of aircraft and accelerate the development of “This funding and the support of the tyre development. advanced products. University of Birmingham and Airbus gives Led by a team from Dunlop Aircraft Tyres The results could help airframe, landing us the opportunity to research new ways to (DAT), which is making a significant invest- gear and wheel and brake manufacturers use the very latest modelling technology to ment, the project is being run in conjunction reduce design time and cost. make advancements in aircraft tyre design,” with the University of Birmingham’s School The project is part of the MAA’s aerospace says DAT chairman Ian Edmondson. of Mechanical Engineering, with support technology exploitation programme (ATEP), L www.midlandsaerospace.org.uk from Airbus UK. supported by the European Regional L www.dunlopaircrafttyres.com Strong demand for MAA Farnborough pods

MAA members will need to be quick to book exhibition space on the MAA’s stand at the Farnborough International Airshow. At year-end, 11 of the 20 exhibition pods available had been booked for Farnborough, which runs from 19-25 July, and MAA pro- gramme administrator Emma Burgess expect- ed there would be keen interest in the remain- ing spaces when members looked at their 2010 calendars. “July seems a long time away now but it will be on us faster than we expect,” she said. Each pod has been given equal space and importance in the stand layout Two impressions of the MAA’s Farnborough stand. and can be customised with a enquiries while you go and meet with key contacts.” small LCD panel, PC or DVD Exhibitors also receive two exhibitor passes, five daily player. The stand features an entrance tickets, entry in the official show catalogue, publici- informal meeting area with litera- ty and promotion through MAA channels, use of all the com- ture display racks, kitchen and mon facilities on the stand and support from MAA staff storage area, the MAA reception throughout the show. desk and graphics promoting In addition, because the MAA stand will be part of the ‘UK aerospace in the Midlands. village’ in the busy Hall 1, exhibitors will have access to the Participating with the MAA in meeting room area organised by UK Trade and Investment. major events such as For more information, please contact Emma at Farnborough has paid dividends for many members. As one put it: [email protected] “Exhibiting with the MAA helps put a good corporate face on the business, and it takes all the headaches away… it would cost a lot more if we were to do all that alone, so the MAA is a big plus.” The MAA team works with stand designers and show organisers to give members an inclusive price to participate and a professionally Mine host... finished home base with none of the worry about setting it up. Says Emma: “A pod stand gives you an excellent spot of your own Would your company like free exposure through the MAA? to meet with new and existing clients. It provides that all-important That’s what you receive when you host an MAA event. physical presence to represent your company, with the MAA taking We are always looking for new venues for our events in the O The MAA will be sharing space with other aerospace Midlands – interesting factories and facilities, conference and alliances at the Airline Purchasing and Maintenance Expo on meeting rooms of all shapes and sizes. 5-6 May at Olympia, London. Members interested in exhibiting at the expo are invited to contact the MAA for details. If you have facilities that could host an MAA meeting or event, L www.ubmaviationexhibitions.com please contact us at [email protected] 4

news from the maa

Midlands firms urged to use SC21 funding

FURTHER funding is available under the SC21 programme to help Midlands aerospace supply chains improve competitiveness. Support is available to Midlands companies of any size, or UK customers that have suppliers located in the Midlands. Already a new MAA-led initiative has had positive responses from some of the region’s key players. The MAA, in partnership with the Steve Boyd with Annette Oliver, supply chain VP for Aero Engine Controls (AEC). Manufacturing Advisory Services (MAS) in the East and West Midlands, is looking to G&O Springs wins region’s first bronze help organisations working with, or considering supporting, their own supply REDDITCH-based G&O Springs “We have already committed almost chains or carrying out internal improvements has become the one of the first £500,000 to more than 75 projects since we within the bounds of SC21. In each case, West Midlands companies to launched the support in January 2009 and there is potential funding available specifically receive a recognition award this is already having a major effect on targeted on SC21. within the 21st Century Supply helping our businesses.” Tim Holmes, the MAA’s SC21 manager, Chains (SC21) programme, as reported Funded by Advantage West Midlands and says: “In practice this could mean grant briefly in the last issue of AIM. the European Regional Development Fund, funding to assist your organisation to carry Managing director Steve Boyd, receiving MAS-WM’s SC21 programme is open to all out supply chain projects in the Midlands, it the bronze award at the SC21 Dissemination suppliers operating in the aerospace and may mean organising a funding package to and Taskforce Event at RAF Cosford, said defence sectors. help your supply chain companies, or it may the “results have been tremendous” from G&O, a specialist provider of springs to be assistance with launch events leading to G&O’s involvement with SC21. AEC and Meggitt among others, was one of cluster activity with shared improvements for G&O employs 24 people at its factory in the first firms to take part in the West all the companies involved. Redditch, and secured the bronze award Midlands programme. “The MAA and our partners at MAS know after a company-wide commitment resulted Thanks to SC21, said Boyd, “we are now that resource limitations make it difficult for a in major enhancements in quality, reductions continually improving every aspect of the company to support the efforts of all its in cost and significant improvements in on- business. suppliers. We would all welcome time delivery. “The process has motivated all of our staff performance improvements from the whole Cliff Johnson, Manufacturing Advisory and these features have contributed to supply chain, but efforts must be cost Service – West Midlands SC21 project making us a better performing operation and effective and give a return on investment, manager, announcing G&O’s award, said: one that is in a good position to win new and this is where the MAA can assist you.” “I’m hoping it will be one of a long line of contracts.” For further information, please contact local businesses to achieve this recognition. L www.g-o-springs.com [email protected] 5 aerospace in the midlands

SC21 IN ACTION: GRAVES AIRCRAFT COMPONENTS & TECHNOSET

in several improvement projects being deliveries to a key customer with zero SC21 boosts deployed to great effect. rejects. efficiency at Graves Value stream mapping of the business Technoset embarked on the SC21 pro- helped identify several opportunities for time gramme as part of a Coventry and GRAVES Aircraft Components, a savings in set-up. With the support of sup- Warwickshire aerospace cluster supported Birmingham-based specialist in plier improvement engineers from Goodrich by MAS-WM. The programme’s diagnostic machining ‘strangers and aliens’ Engine Control Systems a new tooling stor- reviews established Technoset’s successes for the aircraft spares market, age area was created which has successfully in lean implementation as well as a number has been manufacturing low vol- achieved the target of single minute location of areas for improvement. ume, complex machined components for of tools. A second stage is planned. A value stream mapping (VSM) exercise more than 50 years. Graves managing director Steve Platt on the processes of a particularly problemat- The company began life in the automotive says: “Since engagement in SC21, the ic component led to a breakthrough. By industry, but switched to aerospace as EFQM model has become our key driver for reducing the batch quantity from 3,000 demand grew for complicated critical com- strategic business development and our pieces to a more manageable 1,000 pieces, ponents. It is now a strategic partner to approach to customer relationships.” Technoset immediately halved its lead time Goodrich Engine Control Systems for fuel L www.gravesac.co.uk for surface treatment to one week. line spares. L www.mas-wm.org Root cause analysis of non-conforming Seeking to improve its competitiveness parts led to appropriate operator training and and performance, Graves joined the SC21 Technoset resolves helped to embed the principles of SC21 into programme through the Manufacturing the whole organisation. Advisor Service – West Midlands (MAS-WM), conformance issue Technoset is now in the process of devel- and undertook an appraisal of its business oping its Continuous Sustainable using the SC21 diagnostics package. IMPLEMENTATION of SC21 has helped Improvement Programme (CSIP) to maintain As a result, Graves has integrated SC21 Rugby-based Technoset, a manufacturer of these standards, and plans to seek SC21 into its existing improvement activities. The precision components and assemblies, Bronze Award status in future. SC21 excellence methodology has resulted achieve a record of 12 months of on-time L www.technoset.com 6

One century old and rolling well

MAA member Dunlop Aircraft Tyres this year celebrates its centenary. AIM salutes Dunlop’s achievement with this look at the company’s past, present and future.

DUNLOP Aircraft Tyres, based at the historic Fort endures today, with the company’s products found Dunlop site in Birmingham, traces its roots back across fleets flown by the UK forces. to 1910 and, 100 years later, is the only company In 1950, the company pressed ahead with in the world specialising in aircraft tyre plans to open a technical and scientific research manufacturing and retreading. centre in Birmingham and the age of passenger The Dunlop name is attributed to John Boyd flight provided the greatest opportunity for Dunlop Dunlop (1840 – 1921), inventor of the pneumatic to increase in size. It was an opportunity that the tyre. Tyres did not make John Boyd Dunlop the company exploited effectively. fortune that might be expected but the The first jet passenger aircraft, the commercialisation of the pneumatic tyre, handled Comet, was fitted with Dunlop tyres. Since then, so adeptly by the Dunlop Tyre and Rubber the company has supported many notable Company, changed the world. aircraft, including . In the early days of flight, aircraft tyres were The 1980s saw the once mighty Dunlop nothing like they appear today. Early tyres in the Rubber Company broken up. But for Dunlop company’s archive bear a closer resemblance to Aircraft Tyres, the demise of the larger company motorcycle tyres of the era. was a blessing in disguise. A year after launching its pneumatic tyre in Dunlop Aircraft Tyres began a period of 1910, Dunlop offered wired tyres on well-based rejuvenation. It invested in new product rims that provided a greater measure of safety, development and entered the regional aircraft especially during crosswind landings. market with characteristic enthusiasm, energy and The UK’s position as a leading manufacturer of commitment. aircraft had a significant role to play in the growth The list of manufacturers and types for which the of Dunlop: local component production was a benefit to the early pioneers of flight and the company increased its fleet coverage effectively. During the Second World War, most aircraft of the Royal Air Force were fitted with Dunlop tyres and a close relationship was formed that

Operations at , Birmingham From top: Removing the tread from a worn aircraft tyre; winding new tread rubber onto the rasped aircraft tyre; moulding the tyre – the final manufacturing process.

Right: Inspection of an aircraft tyre recently removed from its mould. 7 aerospace in the midlands

Key dates in Dunlop history

1910 – First aircraft tyres advertised 1911 – Wired tyres produced on well-based rims 1939-45 – Dunlop fits tyres to most RAF aircraft during Second World War 1950 – Company establishes technical and scientific research centre 1952 – Dunlop enters passenger jet market with Comet 1969 – Dunlop tyres on Concorde 1985 – Dunlop Aircraft Tyres owned by BTR following break-up of Dunlop 1996 – Dunlop bought from BTR by Rene Charvillat A BAE Systems Hawk trainer drops in to land on Dunlop tyres. 2007 – AAC Capital company supplies tyres is extensive – with other aerospace companies in the Partners acquires 74.6% of and growing: it has just been named an Midlands with which it cooperates to business alternative source of tyres for find ever more inventive ways to 2009 – Tyre retreading and Bombardier’s new CRJ1000 Next Gen. increase tyre performance and distribution facility opens in Increased investment came to enhance customer satisfaction. China. Dunlop Aircraft Tyres in 2007 with the Some of these links originate from acquisition of 74.6 per cent of the the company’s history. Meggitt Aircraft company by AAC Capital Partners and Braking Systems in Coventry, for the appointment of Ian Edmondson as example, which specialises in providing chairman and managing director. wheels and brakes, itself started life as “Our vision is to expand and that Ian Edmondson part of Dunlop. means expanding our product range, supporting Other relationships, such as that with Newbow our customers with regionally located distribution Aerospace in Redditch and Goodrich, have been and retread facilities and expanding the output of developed more recently based on the synergy new tyres,” said Ian. with Dunlop Aircraft Tyres’ business and airline The vision is being realised by the company customers include carriers such as BMI and Flybe. with its new joint venture aircraft tyre distribution Dunlop also works with local engineering Retreaded Dunlop tyres, tested and retreading facility in China and new product companies and recently announced a research and ready for dispatch. development, which continues at speed. project that is partly funded through the MAA to For the military market, the company has been research new ways to embrace modelling “Our vision is to expand selected to supply tyres for the STOVL version of technology to reduce the time and cost of aircraft and that means the new F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter that tyre development (see page 3). is undergoing flight tests and the new Airbus The project is being run in conjunction with the expanding our product A400M military transport aircraft. University of Birmingham’s School of Mechanical range, supporting our For the civil market, the company is making Engineering and with support from Airbus’ facility customers with regionally excellent progress with its new radial tyres for the at Filton. located distribution and Embraer 190/195 regional jet and Airbus A320, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres is proud that it continues and has a number of other exciting projects in the to manufacture at the original Fort Dunlop site in retread facilities and advanced stages of development. the Midlands; under its new management and expanding the output of Today, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, with more than with new investment, its growth is set to continue. new tyres.” 300 employees in Birmingham, has strong links L www.dunlopaircrafttyres.com 8

Aerospace firms scoop awards Regional support gives boost

TWO Midlands aerospace manufacturers – to voice for composites sector JJ Churchill and Paul Fabrications – have THE MAA is encouraging Midlands aerospace companies involved in composites to been recognised in the first EEF Future participate in the new Composites Gateway which has been established in the wake of Manufacturing Awards. the UK government’s national strategy for this important sector. They were among six Midlands region The Composites Gateway is a key to ensuring a strong industry say in training to winners announced at Leicester’s National support and build the UK’s burgeoning composites industry. Space Centre in November and go through The initiative is working with industry, higher education and further education to to the national finals in February 2010. develop and deliver value-added products and services, provide a single point of Launched this year by EEF, the access, and enable technology services for innovation. manufacturers’ organisation, the awards Work to date on the Composite Gateway has been carried out predominantly in the celebrate enterprise, innovation, South West, where funding has been received. The project is now keen to expand its environmental performance and skills activities into the Midlands where it also has the support of the East Midlands Transport development among UK manufacturers. iNet, Leap Ahead, University of Nottingham, University of Derby and Derby College. JJ Churchill won the Innovative People For details, contact the MAA office or Steve Shepherd at [email protected] Practices category. Involving employees in the development of its values allowed this family-owned aerospace business to Development Agency (emda) was confirmed will start in early 2010. Scheduled to open in undertake radical change with the full by the Department for Business, Innovation summer 2011, the MTC has now attracted support of its Nuneaton-based workforce, and Skills. £130 million of public and private sector said the citation. The MTC, backed by some of the UK’s investment for the next 10 years. Paul Fabrications received the major aerospace manufacturers including Bryan Jackson, chairman of emda which Environmental Achievement award for a Rolls-Royce, Aero Engine Controls and is one of the public sector investors, said: three-year programme which has halved Airbus UK, as well as Jaguar Land Rover, is “This world-class centre of excellence will electricity consumption in the company’s designed to help UK manufacturing and its help to ensure that the UK and the Midlands chemical etching facility in Derby. supply chain become more competitive in stays at the forefront of manufacturing L www.jjchurchill.com the global market. technology and innovation.” L www.paulfabrications.co.uk A new model of partnership between industry, universities and research and Group for aerospace Manufacturing centre technology organisations, the MTC reflects the need for manufacturers to move away communities formed gets £40m injection from competing on cost to competing on knowledge. A NEW alliance of local authorities whose THE Manufacturing Technology Centre The centre will provide resources and a communities depend on aerospace supply (MTC) at the Ansty Park research and high quality environment for the development chains and employment has been launched development site near Coventry has received and demonstration of new technologies on to champion the UK aerospace industry £40 million public funding boost. an industrial scale. which employs 113,000 across the country. The contribution from Advantage West The £40 million public investment will drive The Aerospace Communities Alliance Midlands (AWM) and East Midlands forward the construction of the centre, which (ACA) is chaired by Councillor Hilary Jones, 9 aerospace in the midlands

leader of Derby City Council, and has aircraft’. It cuts emissions and fuel Project, together with consultant and MAA support from local authorities and industry consumption and allows airlines to diversify member Clive Lewis of Achieving the bodies including the MAA, Rolls-Royce and their fuel supply base. Difference. Airbus. In February 2008, using the same type of Five prominent aerospace companies The ACA’s overarching aim is to provide a power system, Intelligent Energy have committed to the project with others coordinated voice for communities that rely demonstrated its aviation credentials when it showing interest to commence in early 2010. on the aerospace sector and its supply provided the system to Boeing which UKTI’s Peter Stevenson said all those who chains, to retain and grow the industry within powered the world's first manned fuel cell attended the workshops “have been local areas. It aims to add value to existing aircraft. impressed both by the need to globalise industry lobbying and support structures by L www.intelligent-energy.com their companies and the significant benefits directly representing its communities. to be derived by joining the project.” The House of Commons launch was UKTI globalisation Places are still available for other designed to raise the profile of the ACA companies to come on board. For further within government, the industry and the project progresses information or to register, please contact national media. Ian Lucas, the Minister for Peter Stevenson at Business and Regulatory Reform, and Derby UKTI in the East Midlands has formally [email protected] North MP Bob Laxton were among those launched its Supply Chain Globalisation L www.emids.uktradeinvest.gov.uk attending. The MAA was represented by board member Darren Johnson. Fibreflight tests innovative VAROS platform Intelligent Energy DERBYSHIRE-based UAV builder Fibreflight has successfully flight-tested APU for Airbus test its latest design (pictured right). Dubbed the VAROS, it is described as an easily MIDLANDS-based clean power systems transportable, robust, multi-role sensor company Intelligent Energy has taken an platform. important step forward by supplying Airbus Fibreflight managing director Richard with a multi-functional fuel cell auxiliary Hardwick says innovative design makes power unit (APU) intended for use on future the VAROS capable of safe, reliable commercial airliners. operation in a range of environments. The announcement followed the opening “Its ability to take off and land vertically and its safe, ducted propulsion mean the by Airbus of the Aerotec Fuel Cell Test VAROS can be used for operations previously not possible with conventional fixed and Centre, set up to test commercial rotary wing UAVs,” he said. applications of fuel cell systems. The all-composite airframe measuring 850x570mm relies on electric propulsion to Airbus has previously tested a hydrogen remain on station for up to 20 minutes with a payload of up to 0.5kg. Its maximum and oxygen-based fuel cell system on board takeoff weight is 5kg. its A320 test aircraft to power the aircraft’s Hardwick says applications include urban scouting and site survey, counter-IED back-up hydraulic and electric power examination, remote sensing, ‘perch and stare’ observation, crowd control and media work. systems, as well as operating the ailerons. L www.fibreflight.co.uk Intelligent Energy chief executive Henri UAV technology is highlighted at an MAA workshop on 28 January at Pride Park, Derby. For more Winand said fuel cell technology answers details, see the MAA website www.midlandsaerospace.org.uk many of the challenges of the ‘more electric

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JJX Logistics is a member of the Midlands Aerospace Alliance 1 1 case STUDY 3 Business takes off with the Midlands Aerospace Alliance Profile: Fire Protection Coatings Ltd

Fire Protection Coatings Ltd (FPCL) is a ‘supply and apply’ specialist dealing in fire protective coatings. Active in a number of high-specification sectors including aerospace and defence, the Coventry-based company handles a wide range of coatings and paints to protect steel, aluminium, composites, timber and fabrics. FPCL was formed in 2002 in a management buy-out of the coatings services division of Nullifire Ltd. Since then, it has expanded its business in line A composite fire barrier for the with ISO standards and the demands of Boeing 777, coated by FPCL with an FACT FILE its customers, many of which are Tier 2 epoxy intumescent fire coating. and 3 suppliers in the aerospace supply > Company: Fire Protection chain. Its products, which include thin Coatings Ltd film intumescent paints, epoxy > Address: Unit 8 insulation, fire retardant coatings and 229 Torrington Avenue mastics, are used in major civil and Coventry CV4 9HN defence programmes. > Activities: supply and Typical FPCL projects include fire application of fire protective protection to transport container units coatings for international rated for IM; fuel system actuators; industrial and defence customers smoke damper motors; heavy duty oil > Accreditation: ISO9001/2000, and gas valves; protective casings for ISO14001 potentially explosive and inflammable > Contact: Clive Atkins, Director materials; fabrics and seating; [email protected] composite structures and materials and > Tel: +44 (0)24 7642 2200 electronic components housings. Aerospace Alliance (MAA), FPCL was Fax: +44 (0)24 7646 5568 able to take advantage of the Aerospace www.fireprotectioncoatings.com More potential Business Strategy (ABS) programme Despite FPCL having a number of which was run by the MAA to help clients in that sector, management felt Midlands companies improve their also helped identify key strategic that aerospace held more potential than competitiveness. Thanks partly to ABS positioning to take it forward. One the company was at that time able to tap funding support, FPCL worked with an aspect of this was branding. Says Clive: into. They recognised that a revised independent business consultant to “It became clear that own-labelling the marketing strategy was needed. develop a more effective strategy. products we use would benefit us in As a member of the Midlands Director Clive Atkins describes the terms of credibility, pricing and our consultant’s work as “opening minds”. A brand. We’re now doing this as new series of meetings with the management products are added to our range. team and with the shop floor workers Clive says working with the MAA was helped crystallise a view of the a “very good experience. I would company’s present position and where it recommend [the MAA] particularly for wanted to be in terms of the markets it anyone looking to introduce quality serves. The consultant’s subsequent regimes. The ABS programme helped us report provided the focus for a half-day develop a strategy to expand our strategy meeting at which key objectives aerospace business. It became clear were agreed. “We probably already knew what we that own-labelling should be doing,” he adds. “What the Good experience programme did was make us sit up and the products An important outcome from the analyse what we were doing, to focus would benefit us consultant was the reassurance to FPCL more on the things that could take us that it was broadly on the right track. He forward.” 11 aerospace in the midlands

Redundancy support takes off in NEW MEMBERS The MAA welcomes the following new East Midlands aerospace sector members: HELP is at hand for aerospace companies with companies that are looking to recruit.” and individuals facing restructuring and The service was set up in May 2008, Arco Ltd redundancy in the East Midlands – Career when it took over from the East Midlands West Bromwich Chain, an initiative funded by the East Pan Business Redeployment Project, which Supplier of personal protective equipment Midlands Development Agency (emda) is was designed to support the engineering and products supporting the retention and development of sector in the economic fallout after the World people and skills across the region. Trade Centre attacks in 2001. Eversheds LLP The service is being delivered by NE Group Its corporate clients are enthusiastic. One Nottingham and Winchester Consulting, working in said: “We had spent a lot of time developing International law firm partnership with Jobcentre Plus and other the skills of our workforce, so when things business support organisations. It offers became difficult we felt a personal obligation Hydrapower Dynamics Staffs Ltd individuals and companies within the to do what we could to help. Career Chain Walsall engineering and construction sectors help became real partners in the process and I’d Engineering solutions with finding work and training and up-skilling strongly recommend them to any business in opportunities. similar circumstances.” Lean Education & Development Ltd The NE Group’s Matt Bust, career chain A job search and job matching database Hagley, West Midlands project manager, said: “People were losing helps businesses find new talent and Provider of lean and continuous improve- their jobs and leaving the engineering sector, provides a pool of vacancies for individuals, ment training causing a skills shortage. We want to help who can also benefit from career guidance keep people within the sector through and interview training. Mills CNC redeployment. “This has given me a kick and more Leamington Spa “Where a company has identified confidence towards my new employment Distributor of CNC machine tools redundancies, we step in at any early stage to with a CV that stands out,” added another support staff and help either redeploy them Career Chain user. Surface Generations Ltd within the same business or match them up L www.careerchain.org.uk Oakham, Leicestershire Reconfigurable pin tool technology

Arrowsmith grows with Exhall acquisition Wallwork Heat Treatment Birmingham COVENTRY-based Arrowsmith Engineering group headquarters and technical centre are Provider of aerospace heat treatments has added a full range of grinding services to the latest steps on Arrowsmith’s path to its portfolio with the acquisition of Exhall world-class manufacturing and business Wetherby Consultants Grinding and Engineering, which will operate growth. Coleshill, Birmingham as a division of Arrowsmith Engineering. Government-funded initiatives such as Executive recruitment services Work is under way to bring its capabilities in SC21 are helping Arrowsmith turn a line with Arrowsmith’s existing ISO 9001:2001, manufacturing downturn into opportunities Wheelabrator Group Ltd AS EN 9100 and ISO 14001:2004 quality and for the future. Proof of the programme’s Birmingham environmental standards. benefits came in the form of the company’s Surface preparation technologies and The acquisition and the creation of a new first 100 per cent OTIF (On Time In Full) services delivery rating, making it Pattonair’s top supply chain WTI Fasteners partner for the month. Moira, Derbyshire “SC21 is much more than just Provider of high performance internal a badge,” says Arrowsmith threads director Jason Aldridge. “It is a way of working. “If implemented throughout the Midlands, it would help manufacturers not only to safeguard, but to create Arrowsmith directors Jason Aldridge (back, centre), Keith Aldridge and Sheila Aldridge with their recently hundreds of extra jobs in the expanded team of specialist grinders, following the region.” acquisition of Exhall Grinding Ltd. L www.arrowsmitheng.co.uk 12

IN BRIEF… TECHNOTES

Intelligent Energy (IE) has received an sq ft. “We’re seeing substantial growth Derbyshire-based machined plastics £800,000 Grant for Business Investment through the airframe and engine pro- specialist Fibracon Insoll has introduced (GBI) from East Midlands Development grammes we support,” says managing the new DuPont Vespel SCP family of Agency (emda) to help it expand. The director Ingard Sagstad. engineering plastics to its portfolio. project, costing more than £8.5 million, is Fibracon says the products combine the expected to create 130 new jobs, more Air and Ground Aviation of Stafford properties of plastics, ceramics and than doubling IE’s workforce. The has seen a 10 per cent increase in metals for increased temperature handling, business,which started as a spin-out from business over the last year, boosting its improved dimensional stability, broader Loughborough University, includes Airbus turnover to about £4 million. The spares chemical compatibility and greatly and Boeing among its blue-chip clients. and consumables stockist for civil and improved wear resistance. Applications military aircraft expects recently added include control linkage components, door Coventry-based Plasticraft Process helicopter charter and fuel services to add mechanisms, bushings, bearings, wear Plant Technology Group, a leading significantly to its business. pads and thrust washers. supplier to the aerospace sector of surface treatment equipment, has achieved record The Cryoconnect division of Staffordshire- A new high-grade ceramic tooling block capital plant sales in 2009, booking orders based Tekdata Interconnections has material launched by ACG, part of the worth more than $20 million. Among them delivered 175 bespoke flight harnesses for Composites division of Umeco, combines are contracts for the supply of chemical the alpha mass spectrometer (AMS), a high temperature resistance with a low processing lines to Turkey, Saudi Arabia space research instrument due for launch coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). and the Far East. to the International SpaceStation in July. ACG says CB1100 can produce thermally Cryoconnect developed and built stable composite tooling capable of Leicester-based Wide Range connectors and miniature ribbon cables withstanding the pressures and Elastomers has been acquired by sealing using materials such as resistance alloys temperatures of autoclave cure cycles. It technology business Garlock (Great for predictable performance and minimal adds the product is particularly suited to Britain). The company’s fabric reinforced heat burden at cryogenic temperatures. the production of high accuracy, short run airframe seals and variety of canopy and and prototype tooling. cockpit seal extrusions complement Rolls-Royce has entered a five-way £50 Garlock’s range of aerospace products. million strategic partnership to support the Staffordshire-based materials analyst development of structural metallic systems CERAM has published a white paper Derbyshire-based Paul Fabrications is for advanced gas turbines. It is the first outlining how the characterisation of expanding on the back of a 30 per cent collaboration of its kind between Rolls- surfaces and interfaces can assist the year-on-year rise in turnover for 2010. The Royce, the Engineering and Physical aerospace industry to reduce its precision component manufacturer, which Sciences Research Council, and the environmental impact. The paper, available supplies the aerospace and nuclear power universities of Birmingham, Cambridge and as a download, says such analysis plays generation sectors, has increased its man- Swansea, and will include research, an important role in developing ‘greener’ ufacturing space by 50 per cent to 60,000 fellowships and postgraduate training. materials, components and technologies.

About the MAA… Contact the MAA The Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA) is the voice of companies If you have a query or suggestion in the British Midlands supplying that you wish to make, please global aerospace. It was set up in 2003 to improve wealth creation contact the MAA by any of the and employment for companies means below: ( 1 4 9 8 ) and people involved in the aerospace industry across the Midlands. The MAA is supported T: +44 (0) 2476 430250 by Advantage West Midlands F: +44 (0) 2476 430001 w . e n g a r o u p c k

(AWM) and the East Midlands E: [email protected] L t d . Development Agency (emda). G r o u p E n g a e

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