Category: BizJet

New 4-Channel EV-4 Expert Vibro from Delphin

CAS DataLoggers in partnership with Delphin Technology has introduced a new model of the Expert Vibro data acquisition system, a 4 channel EV-4. Designed for data acquisition and vibration analysis this system is especially suited for smaller applications that only require a few analog input channels. A key feature of the Expert Vibro family of is the ability to synchronously acquire multiple analog channels at sample rates up to 50 kHz.

The EV-4 can operate as a stand-alone device recording to internal memory to capture both transient and periodic data. Integrated comparators and digital inputs allow flexible triggering including the ability to re- cord pre- and post-event data. The EV-4 is equipped with powerful FPGA technology with digital signal processing software that that provides extensive on-board intelligence for calculations, logic, and vibration analysis. Measurement data is evaluated “on the fly” with digital outputs being switched within milliseconds in the event of limit value violations.

In addition to the 4 analog input channels, the EV-4 has 4 digital inputs to capture pulses, discrete inputs or digital triggers. An extension bus allows the system to be extended to over 100 analog or digital inputs with high-speed synchronization protocols.

Key Features:

24 Bit A/D for high resolution measurements

Support for voltage, IEPE, or shaft vibration sensors

  • 4 Analog outputs
  • 8 Digital outputs
  • Programmable anti-alias filtering
  • Up to 14 GB of local non-volatile memory
  • Support for USB, NFS, CIFS data storage and FTP/SFTP file transfer
  • Gigabit Ethernet interface, optional 802.11 b/g/n WiFi
  • RS-232, RS-485, CAN, MODBUS RTU, MODBUS TCP and PROFIBUS Interfaces

Of special benefit is the modular system for signal processing with a range of pre-processing functions including filters, rectifiers, integrators, differentiators or decimators which can be selected to make up a pre-processing sequence. Multiple pre-processing sequences are able to run in parallel in order to evaluate an input signal. In addition, a complement of standard FFT signal analysis functions are built in to the software to allow measurement of amplitude, frequency and phase of the primary frequency or harmonics, extraction of characteristic values including min/max/average/peak to peak/RMS, vector sum and crest factor.

Data captured by the EV-4 can be displayed on a PC using Delphin’s ProfiSignal software. Even large volumes of historical data are easy to analyze – Profsignal has been optimized to enable large data volumes to be easily processed online. For on-line applications live data can be streamed to a PC via a GB Ethernet or WiFi interface and data recorded in the device’s internal storage can be easily downloaded and analyzed offline. An optional Vibro analysis module for Profisignal allows display of common frequency related charts including FFT, cascade/waterfall, time signal, spectrogram and orbit diagrams.

Jet Aviation Opens New Hangar and FBO Facility in Palm Beach

Jet Aviatio’s new hangar and FBO complex at Palm Beach International Airport has gone operational. The facility extension features a brand-new 11,270 sq. ft. FBO terminal, a 42,000 sq. ft. hangar and a near-65,000 sq. ft. ramp.

Jet Aviation says it is raising the bar with its new state-of-the-art FBO and hangar facility extension in West Palm Beach, Florida. Designed to accommodate the newer generation, large-body aircraft currently entering the market, the company’s new 42,000 sq.ft. hangar has a hangar door clearance of 30 feet, a dedicated ramp area of 64,188 sq.ft. and approximately 10,000 sq.ft. of dedicated office and storage space.

The new West Palm Beach FBO facility is situated alongside a new Gulfstream maintenance facility with which it shares more than 9,000 sq. ft. of the passenger terminal on the 1st floor. With a commitment to sustainability and minimizing its environmental footprint, the facility features low flow water fixtures, a white roof and heat-reducing tarmac as well as local drought resistant plants. The complex further features 200,000 sq.ft. of shared tarmac space.

“These facilities are designed and equipped to meet the business-aviation needs of our global customer base,” said David Best, SVP Regional Operations, America. “The additional space and hangarage can accommodate both larger aircraft and increasing demand. We continue to grow our facilities to match our customer needs and are pleased to have strong interest in the new hangar.”

David Paddock, Jet Aviation president, adds, “This investment is the 5th new hangar we’ve opened in recent years and underscores our commitment to exceeding customer expectations by further strengthening our global facility network. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our parent company, General Dynamics, for their ongoing support of our business, particularly during these uncertain times.”

Jet Aviation’s Palm Beach FBO received outstanding reviews in the 2020 customer FBO surveys conducted by Aviation International News (AIN), Professional Pilot and Business Air News (BAN), notably ranking in the Top 5 percent category in AIN’s PRASE survey while making Professional Pilot’s Top 10 List.

In related news, Jet Aviation is currently constructing a new FBO and hangar terminal in Scottsdale, Arizona, slated for completion in early 2021, while working to replace its storm-damaged hangar in Houston, Texas.

West Star Aviation Names New Corporate Controller 

West Star announced Luke Williams as their new corporate controller. Williams will manage and direct all accounting, treasury and tax functions of the company.

He has fifteen years of experience in finance within the transportation industry and graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in accounting. Williams is a certified public accountant.

“Luke’s strong financial background and relevant experience will be a significant benefit to helping the company continue to serve its customers and the industry.  I look forward to working with him to continue to support our personnel and develop our employees within finance and other organizations,” says Tim Spihlman, CFO.

“I am excited to be able to contribute my experience to the West Star team and valued customers,” says Williams.

Cortec’s EcoLine Cutting Fluid on Bearings

Bearings manufacturers who have experienced corrosion knows how critical proper protection is to avoid later delays and rejection. Oxidation can occur on smoothly polished bearings surfaces exposed to fluctuating humidity, temperatures and condensation during shipping and storage. Some bearings manufacturers may prefer to apply liquid rust preventatives even though papers and films are some of the most convenient protective options. However, conventional is not necessarily better.

Cortec Corporation has developed outstanding alternatives to traditional mineral-oil based rust preventatives (RPs). Among these sustainable alternatives is EcoLine Cutting Fluid, a biobased rust preventative concentrate that rivals traditional RPs in terms environmental impact, user safety, cleanliness, convenience, and even performance! EcoLine Cutting Fluid offers multi-metal protection to bearings in shipping and storage and is an excellent environmentally sound alternative to petroleum derived products. It has a wide dilution range for greater economy and flexibility. Unlike traditional rust preventative oils, an emulsion of EcoLine Cutting Fluid leaves a dry film that is virtually undetectable on the surface of the metal, helping to create a cleaner workplace and preventing material waste.

EcoLine Cutting Fluid proved its advantages for bearings protection when it was tested by a Montenegro manufacturer of bearings, bushings, and used in engines produced for two major car companies. The auto parts were made out of a special aluminum alloy that was corroding in transit during two to four months of export in seagoing containers. Although the manufacturer was applying traditional rust inhibiting oils, the high-tech engine components were still having problems with oxidation and pitting, which caused significant losses for the company in terms of delays and rusted parts.

The manufacturer decided to test EcoLine Cutting Fluid in their laboratory. Promising results prompted them to implement a pilot trial and eventually a full-scale plant-wide implementation. Not only did their EcoLine Cutting Fluid emulsion show extended protection in field testing of up to 12 months, but the rust preventative also created a layer less than 1 micron thick, thinner than the previous oil—which apparently did not satisfy tight tolerances—and compatible with robotic assembly. All these benefits came simply by substituting a more environmentally responsible rust preventative for an ineffective oil-based standby.

Lorin Develops Sleek Anodized Aluminum Floor and Counter Stands for Hand Sanitizer Dispensers

Lorin Industries, Inc. announces the release of new sleek and modern floor and counter stands for hand sanitizer dispensers made with the company’s signature anodized aluminum. Available in multiple configurations, the company says these dispenser stands can help facilities to reduce the spread of germs, keep the environment clean, and maintain employee and customer health and safety, all while incorporating stylish design elements.

Three different configurations are available for lightweight, portable, and stable countertop hand sanitizer dispenser stands; the curvilinear, angular, and rectilinear designs all bring a modern, stylish touch to installing touchless hand sanitizer dispensers into facilities. Easier to install and maintain than wall-mounted options, the countertop stands are constructed from anodized aluminum, which can help to minimize surface pathogen collection.

Complementing the countertop designs, Lorin’s hand sanitizer dispenser floor stand is ideal for high traffic areas like lobbies, schools, churches, gyms, offices, factories, malls, and more. The rectilinear floor stand design is also lightweight, portable, stable, and easy to clean. The stand is compatible with most available hand sanitizer dispensers, and is easy to assemble.

For more information about Lorin anodized aluminum, visit https://www.lorin.com.

 

Constant Aviation Secures Transport Canada Validation to Install Pro Line Fusion Upgrade on Canadian-Based Challenger 604s

Constant Aviation’s Bombardier Challenger 604 flight deck upgrade has achieved an international milestone. Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) has validated the supplemental type certificate (STC) for the flight deck upgrade, which replaces the Challenger 604’s factory installed CRT displays with a package of high-resolution Pro Line Fusion touchscreens from Collins Aerospace. With this validation, Constant Aviation is approved to install the upgrade on Canadian-registered aircraft. It is also the first step toward further international growth for the program, which is on track to be validated by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) later this year.

“Transport Canada validation opens up an important market for the Challenger 604 Pro Line Fusion upgrade,” said David Davies, Constant Aviation CEO. “There are more than 20 Challenger 604 aircraft registered in Canada, and their operators now have access to an unmatched avionics solution that modernizes these aircraft for many more years of use. Based on the response we have seen since launching this program in the United States, we expect Canadian-based operators will move quickly to install the Pro Line Fusion package on their Challenger 604 aircraft.”

Constant Aviation has completed 25 Pro Line Fusion installations on United States-registered Challenger 604s since the program began in 2018, and it will induct three more in the coming months. The MRO expects that 15 percent of the Challenger 604s in use across the U.S. will receive this upgrade by mid-2021.

Challenger 604 operators are choosing the Pro Line Fusion system for its multiple benefits. Most noticeably, Pro Line Fusion’s three widescreen displays provide 35 percent more glass than the aircraft’s stock CRT displays. This enhances data presentation for pilots and provides exceptional situational awareness. The package also comes with NextGen communications technologies like Synthetic Vision, Data Link, ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV, and the option to add Safe Flight AutoPower and FANS-1/A. These technologies are essential for future operations of the Challenger 604 worldwide, and they can greatly improve the aircraft’s resale value.

“One important element about the Pro Line Fusion package is that it is future-proof,” said Blake Hogge, director of Avionics Sales for Constant Aviation. “The open and scalable architecture is designed to comply with all foreseeable regulatory mandates and technological evolutions. This gives operators peace of mind that their asset–the aircraft–will better retain its value in the long-term. U.S.-based operators have recognized how important this is for the future of their organizations, and we are excited to bring the same benefits to Canadian aircraft.”

Argo MRT and Advanced Composites Training Form Bond

Argo Mobile Repair Team (Argo MRT) and Advanced Composites Training (ACT) announced a joint collaboration to deliver comprehensive hands-on training in composites.

Specializing in composite and metallic repairs, Argo MRT is known in the airline industry for its flexible and skilled team of professionals, bringing decades of experience from a broad base of aerospace backgrounds.

“Collaborating with ACT to deliver these highly accredited composite repair courses from our dedicated training facility in Devon is an exciting development for Argo MRT and we look forward to combining our expertise to further enhance our business offerings,” Says Jeremy Bateson, head of Engineering at Argo MRT. “This relationship with ACT underscores our customer-focused commitment to delivering premium composite repair services and our commitment to investing in the continued development of this field.”

Based in London, Ontario Canada, ACT  says they deliver “the highest standard of approved and accredited composites training for Civilian and Military Technicians and Engineers.” These courses provide trainees with the skill set to perform composite repairs in a number of industries including aviation, aerospace, automotive, marine and renewables. The company says they hope they will be well received in the UK, Europe and beyond.

“Teaming up with Argo MRT will enable us to deliver our globally renowned training courses in the UK. We are excited to be working with Argo MRT, a company that shares our vision of providing first class composite repairs,” says Wilson Boynton (CET), president at ACT. “Established in 1996, ACT has acquired a diverse range of composites knowledge and we are committed to staying current with the latest improvements in composite technologies, delivering state-of-the-art training techniques and unparalleled course syllabi.”

This collaboration will enable both companies to build new opportunities for supporting aircraft structural repairs, with education and employment opportunities for composites Technicians.

The ACT courses will be hosted at Argo MRT’s training facility in Devon in the Southwest of England, conveniently located providing easy access, excellent accommodation options and beautiful local resources. The first course will be held later this year with full course details and dates to be announced shortly. For more information in the meantime, please contact: info@argomrt.com or info@raacomposites.com.

Cementex Personal Protective Task Wear and Equipment for Worker Safety

Cementex, maker of safety tools, highlights its UltraLite Series of Arc Flash PPE Task Wear and PPE storage canisters.

Cementex’s UltraLite Series Arc Flash PPE Task Wear is designed to combine complete safety with comfort. The 11 cal/cm2 UltraLite garments include a balaclava-hooded long-sleeve t-shirt and simple high-waisted12 cal/cm2 pants, made to fit comfortably over daily-wear clothing. With kits available that include gloves, a hardhat and clear faceshield. UltraLite Task Wear ensures that workers are completely safe and prepared for the job.

Cementex’s PPE storage canisters provide ultimate protection for arc flash suits with hoods or face shields, thanks to their oversized 14” diameter. These extra-large, ultra-durable hardsided arc flash storage canisters are designed to withstand the harshest environments and safely store technicians’ most delicate and valuable PPE items. The canisters also feature a stackable design for easy, orderly storage in shops and equipment rooms. Their snap seal-tight lids ensure secure, reliable closure, and durable rope handles include a comfort grip for easy transport.

All Cementex products are made in the U.S.A. to the highest standards of quality. For additional details, visit our online catalog.

Twin Commander Aircraft Expands Legacy Support

Twin Commander Aircraft says it is continuing to improve its support for owners and operators. With new availability of parts that previously were difficult to source or had become prohibitively expensive, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to the long history of the brand and the worldwide fleet.

As a result of a recently expanded staff, including Andrew Wilson, technical service engineering manager and Pam Moore, librarian, the company has been able to address some long-term items of interest to owners. Among the projects currently in the works is a replacement for the cabin pressure indicator. Unavailable from the original equipment provider for many years, the new indicator is manufactured to original specifications, and will install as a minor alteration. Parts that will form a custom kit should be in stock in the next few months.

In addition, the company says owners can soon expect to find the oxygen gauge in stock. Previously unavailable because the supplier no longer supported the system components, Twin Commander Aircraft was able to secure support for the manufacture of new parts at a reasonable cost.

When supporting legacy products, cost is nearly as important as availability, and Twin Commander Aircraft works tirelessly to mitigate any cost increases being passed on to owners. An unexpected transition in the sourcing of the start switch and environmental cabin cooling switch would have resulted in a large cost increase to owners. But work behind the scenes at Twin Commander ensured significantly more favorable pricing, and more price stability in the future.

Working on some of these challenging cases has been made possible by the longtime contributions of Pam Brown in purchasing and Alan Wright in engineering, as well as the addition of Wilson and Moore. It has been at the center of their early efforts with the company. “I love offering value to an owner or a Factory Authorized Service Center with these projects,” Wilson said.

Brian Harbaugh,Twin Commander business unit director said that Twin Commander Aircraft is completely dedicated to supporting the aircraft. “I’m proud of the work we’re doing to help owners and operators, and to help our Factory Authorized Service Centers better support their customers,” he said. “We are pushing forward to make sure the legacy fleet of Twin Commanders stays active and brings joy to their owners for many years to come. With the addition of new staff, we will have the resources necessary to work hard on legacy obsolesce far into the future.”

Hartzell Engine Technologies Receives ODA Approval from FAA 

Keith Bagley, president of Hartzell Engine Technologies (HET), announced today that the company had received its Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) approval from the FAA.

“Earning ODA approval is an incredibly important step for us to take in our ongoing effort to bring new products to market in a timelier and more cost-effective way,” Bagley says. “We are extremely honored and proud to have demonstrated the capabilities that have garnered the FAA’s trust and confidence in our policies and practices.”

“Ours is actually an additional unit to the ODA that has been in effect at our sister company, Hartzell Propeller, for a long time,” he continued. “The authorizations are based on the FAA’s recognition of our companies’ long history of product expertise.”

“Our ODA approval comes at the end of a long road of FAA audits, inspections, and reviews,” Rick Quave, HET’s VP of engineering added. “The FAA representatives were extremely thorough in their reviews of our processes and manuals. They were also diligent in their validation of the experiences and qualifications of our in-house ODA designees. HET’s ODA representatives are acting on behalf of the FAA, and are approved by the FAA as part of the ODA certification process.”

Bagley explained that while the ODA does not eliminate any current test, validation, or documentation required to show compliance with the regulations, it does allow Hartzell Engine Technologies to act on the FAA’s behalf in making a determination of compliance, managing the approval processes, and reducing the need to compete for the FAA’s limited engineering resources on certification projects at the regional ACO’s.

“That helps us, while reducing FAA backlogs,” he says.

“Receiving our FAA ODA approval is not the end of the FAA’s involvement. While the ODA relieves the FAA of direct involvement, they are still actively involved,” Quave said. “A team of FAA engineers and inspectors will provide regular oversight to ensure that everything we do continues to meet both the FAA’s and Hartzell Engine Technologies’ extremely high standards for quality and safety.”