On November 11, 2019, aircraft structure supplier Triumph Group will cooperate with Embraer to conduct flight verification of the thermoplastic composite main structure. Triumph Group has developed a thermoplastic elevator, which is assembled by induction welding.
Triumph Group said that this elevator structure will be made of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic material, which is the first time in the industry. Embraer will install thermoplastic elevators on the aircraft for flight testing to prove that the technology is ready to be upgraded from laboratory to certification and production.
The welded thermoplastic structure eliminates holes and fasteners, and is expected to reduce the cost of the main structure by 20% and weight by 10% compared to traditional thermoset composite materials. In addition, thermoplastic composites also have better impact resistance and toughness.
In addition, Gulfstream's G650 business jet has adopted GKN Fokker. Rudder and floor, the new flagship model G700 will also use the same structure.