Advanced M&P to Increase Manufacturing Efficiency at Airbus

As currently no new aircraft program is under development, focus of the application of Advanced Materials & Processes shifts more and more in the direction of rapid implementation to overcome manufacturing- or assembly bottlenecks and to reduce manufacturing lead times. Special emphasis lies on streamlining assembly processes by a higher degree of automation or the usage of new fastening systems. Another main construction side is shimming, sealing and further surface protection technologies in a high production rate surrounding in a global supply chain, coping also with environmental regulations like REACh. Non Destructive Evaluation (NDE) and new technologies to support In-Service needs, like flexible maintenance- and repair technologies, are additional building blocks delivered by Materials & Processes Research & Technology to add value to the current production portfolio. In addition an overview should be given to also summarize all mid-term activities contributing to derivative program development.