At the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, Oerlikon and MTU Aero Engines have agreed on the next phase of the collaboration agreement signed at Paris Airshow 2023 to establish a smart and standardized thermal spray factory of the future. By leveraging this cutting-edge technology and integrating digital processes, the companies aim to achieve an unprecedented level of productivity, efficiency, quality and transparency throughout the entire production chain of aerospace components.

One important key element is achieving 100 per cent digital traceability on the part level through the implementation of advanced measures by tracking every part throughout the production process, ensuring complete transparency and accountability. Another crucial component is the creation of a digital twin, simulating the production of aerospace components to enable real-time monitoring, analysis, and optimization. Additionally, the project will incorporate health, safety, and sustainability initiatives, focusing on reducing environmental impact through improved energy efficiency and waste reduction.

To address the complexity of the project tasks and ensure seamless integration of systems and processes, Oerlikon and MTU will establish a cross-functional project team. Both companies have affirmed their commitment to innovation and change, challenging traditional practices and pushing boundaries to drive continuous improvement and optimization.

The project will comprise distinct phases and deliverables, including system connectivity, bi-directional system integration, structured data mapping and architecture, data screening for anomaly detection using data science, and process adaptation featuring automatic improvement proposals, predictive maintenance, and process optimization.

"We are excited to partner with Oerlikon to establish a state-of-the-art thermal spray factory," says Markus Zeis, SVP Enablement at MTU Aero Engines. "This initiative represents a major step forward in our efforts to enhance efficiency, quality, and sustainability using thermal spray production."

Toby Middlemiss, Head of Aerospace at Oerlikon, says: "Collaborating with MTU Aero Engines on this project is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation, excellence and digitalization. We look forward to leveraging our expertise and resources to create a smart factory that sets new standards in production processes of the aerospace industry."