The transformation of the aviation industry is in full swing. It is not only the post-pandemic recovery and the drive to reduce emissions that are setting the direction. The requirements for digital solutions across the entire value chain and for the next generations of business aircraft with new technologies also require rethinking.
Liebherr-Aerospace's presence at NBAA-BACE demonstrates that the company has accepted the challenges and is ready for these industry transformations. With investments in research and technology far above the industry average, Liebherr is making a significant contribution to the development of efficient and environmentally friendly air transport.
Many years of experience in the design and integration of air management, flight control and actuation systems, landing gears and in the field of signal and power electronics make Liebherr an indispensable partner to aircraft manufacturers.
Based on its core competencies, however, Liebherr is continuously looking beyond the limits of what is feasible today. Electrification, 3D printing or hydrogen technologies can make a huge contribution here.
Leader in the development of electromechanical actuators
Liebherr-Aerospace has always been a leader in the research and development of electromechanical actuators (EMA) for medium to large commercial aircraft. Now the company is also adding smaller actuators to its portfolio.
The new concept specifically addresses business jets, commercial planes, helicopters, as well as the emerging AAM (Advanced Air Mobility) sector. Liebherr's EMA family concept benefits from the experience gained from millions of flight hours in numerous aircraft programs with actuators and associated electronics over the past decades.
The development approach offers scalability for small installation spaces, a favorable power-to-weight ratio and high reliability.
Positioned for the future with electrification and decarbonization
Liebherr has also been driving forward the electrification of today's aircraft for many years and also offers successful applications for the future in this area. In aircraft that will be more electric in the future, the engine will be decoupled from onboard power consumers for increased efficiency. Electric power will replace bleed air or hydraulic systems and enable the introduction of electric air management and actuation systems. Liebherr's exhibits show that the company can already master these requirements today: Electromechanical actuators (EMA) and an electric motor pump (EMP) as core element for decentralized hydraulic power supply solutions are on display.
Air humidification systems for enhanced travel comfort
In order to avoid a low relative humidity level on board (less than 5%), Liebherr offers an air humidification system that constantly monitors and keeps the level between 20% and 25% at room temperature of around 20 °C to 24 °C. Human organs sensitive to air dryness are not stressed during flight. The system has multi-zone humidity control capability and is easy to maintain.
On the way to model-based engineering
In addition, digital means are revolutionizing the way Liebherr designs, builds and maintains aircraft systems. On its way to becoming a model-based company, Liebherr is exchanging models with customers as early as possible to contribute to more efficient aircraft design and development.
