Materials & Processes for the next Airbus Program

Unlike the past years it is becoming more and more evident that major OEM are getting prepared for the launch of new aircraft programs in the so-called “Middle of the Market” segment. Though no configuration decisions have been taken so far, Airbus Engineering is working on all suitable options to deliver advanced Material & Process solutions for the realization of an appropriate fuselage design. A low cost metal fuselage would be supported by advanced welding solutions and other technologies for automated processing of new Aluminum alloys. For a composite fuselage version thermoplastics could play a crucial role. High speed lay-up technologies are under survey here, based on the usage of new, cost efficient material solutions in combination with automated joining technologies. For new wing concepts, textile & infusion technologies might play a significant role in a high-volume low cost manufacturing environment. These efforts for both fuselage and wing, and of course for pylon and empennage as well, are flanked by the full scope of mandatory surface preparation-, assembly and non-destructive testing developments which are decisive factors for mission success.