Goodrich Innovations Enable Greener Aerospace Industry

25 February 2008

Technological innovations from Goodrich in lightweight composites, structural design and engine fuel components are helping thier customers meet future environmental requirements.

""While 'being green' is currently the fashion for industry in general, it has been a way of life for Goodrich and the aerospace industry since day one,"" said Harry Arnold, vice president of technology for Goodrich. ""Economics and the environment are linked in our business; our customers have the task of building and operating aircraft that consume the least fuel while carrying the maximum payload, and to do so safely and cleanly. We work relentlessly to reduce weight, enhance aerodynamics and improve fuel efficiency on all products and services across the enterprise.""

The majority of noise from aircraft is generated from the engine by fans, compressors, and from jet mixing. As a primary designer and manufacturer of nacelles, Goodrich engineers reduce noise through dispersion, dampening, absorption and frequency change. Acoustics specialists continue to find new ways to manufacture quieter systems, reducing noise during take off and landing as well as noise in the interior cabin throughout flight. Carbon- based composite materials, 10 times stronger and three times lighter than steel, are used to mold the outer shell of the engine nacelle. These advanced nacelle systems absorb engine energy, aiding in significant noise reduction; their light weight enhances fuel economy.

Changes on the horizon include engines that emit 20 percent less carbon dioxide and 80 percent less NOx, and reduce noise by 18 decibels. ""Reducing weight, fuel burn and drag, without compromising safety or performance, is our continuous improvement quest. The better we are, the more we help our customer achieve their green goals,"" Arnold said.

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