Tue, Dec 08, 2009
First Composite Lay-Up Manufactured In Nantes
The first composite lay-up for the A350 XWB has been
manufactured today in Nantes, France, and marks the 'coming to
life' of Airbus's new long range aircraft. This panel for the
center wing-box (CWB), entirely made of carbon, has a surface area
of 387 square feet, making it the largest "monobloc" composite
panel ever manufactured in Nantes. Once assembled in Nantes, the
CWB will be delivered to Airbus Saint-Nazaire for integration.
Photo Courtesy Airbus
Along with other Airbus facilities, the Airbus plant in Nantes
has a high expertise in composite material and is a leader in the
manufacture of carbon fibre structural parts, such as the center
wing box and the keel beam for the A350 XWB. On the all-new
aircraft Family, 53 per cent of the aircraft by weight will be
composite-based, including major elements such as wings and
fuselage.
"This key milestone for the A350 XWB program has been made
possible through Airbus' methodical and evolutionary approach to
incorporating composites in its aircraft, and the consequent
experience gained over many years," said Fabrice Brégier,
Airbus Chief Operating Officer.
Didier Evrard, Head of the A350 XWB program added: "The A350 XWB
is becoming real, and further builds on our expertise in key areas
such as: materials technology; predictive stress analysis and
design; composite manufacturing; and composite engineering and
assembly, including manufacturing processes and tool technology
concepts."
The A350 XWB Family is Airbus' response to widespread market
demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range
wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,300nm. Powered by
new-generation Rolls-Royce Trent engines, the A350 XWB Family is
designed to confront the challenges of high fuel prices, rising
passenger expectations, and environmental constraints.
Firm orders for the A350 XWB now stand at 505 from 32 customers
worldwide.
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