Category: Testing

MK Test Introduces Tailored Engine, LRU, and AMU Test Solutions for MROs

MK Test, a provider of advanced test systems for the aerospace industry, is excited to announce the launch of its fully tailored test solutions for engines, Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), and Auxiliary Power Units (AMUs). Designed specifically for individual aircraft engine models, LRUs, and AMUs, this new offering directly addresses the needs of MROs who require precise, dedicated test systems for their specific variants, rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Historically, MROs have faced challenges with systems that offer compatibility across multiple engine variants and components. MK Test’s latest product offering eliminates this complexity by providing a complete engine test system designed for specific engines, such as the GE90-, CFM56-, and LEAP models, as well as LRUs and AMUs. This ensures that each system is optimized for the unique requirements of the component, improving reliability, efficiency, and reducing turnaround time (TAT).

The complete solution from MK Test includes:

  • Automeg Test System: A high-performance platform for testing engines, LRUs, and AMUs.
  • Custom Interface Cable Sets: Pre-configured to match specific engine models or custom-designed to the client’s requirements.
  • Pre-Written Test Programs: Tailored for individual engine models, LRUs, and AMUs, saving valuable setup time and reducing operational costs.

“Our customers told us that a system that works for multiple engine variants or components simply doesn’t meet their specific needs,” said Jeffrey Miller, Sales Manager at MK Test Americas. “We listened, and now we offer fully customizable test solutions for MROs which offer exactly what they need for each engine model, LRU, and AMU they service. This approach ensures faster, more accurate testing and improved overall efficiency.”

MK Test’s Engine, LRU, and AMU Test System Solutions are available for various aircraft engines, LRUs, and AMUs, with more options available upon request. The customizable nature of the solution allows MROs to choose from a full cable set, design-only options, and pre-written test programs, ensuring flexibility and cost-efficiency.

For more information, please contact MK Test at sales@mktest.com or visit https://mktest.com/products/engine-test-system-solution/.

Boom Supersonic Accelerates Overture Aircraft and Engine Development

Boom Supersonic announced milestones across its Overture airliner and Symphony engine programs in July. Boom is reinventing the cockpit with an all-new flight deck, designed around pilots with safety at the forefront. Boom is making rapid progress on its Symphony engine, with hardware testing underway and the first full-scale engine core to be operational in just 18 months. Additionally, Boom announced that Symphony will be assembled in San Antonio, Texas through an expanded agreement with StandardAero.

Today’s announcements come on the heels of accelerating momentum for Boom. In March, the company conducted the historic first flight of its XB-1 supersonic demonstrator and in June completed construction on the Overture Superfactory in Greensboro, North Carolina.

“Passengers and airlines are hungry for supersonic flight,” said Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. “Following XB-1’s successful test flight, we’re accelerating. Overture features an all-new flight deck, incorporating extensive pilot feedback, resulting in a flying experience that is both innovative and instantly familiar. Our Symphony engine has quickly progressed through design into hardware rig testing, and with a fully operational engine core on track for next year, our rapid development approach is pacing ahead of schedule.”

Boom continues to partner with airlines and best-in-class industry suppliers. Overture’s flight deck builds on the next-generation Honeywell Anthem avionics suite. An advanced head-worn vision system from Universal Avionics, who joins the Overture program today, is integrated into the flight deck. Boom worked with BAE Systems to integrate Active Control Sidesticks into the Overture flight deck simulator displayed at the Farnborough International Airshow.

Overture’s flight deck builds upon years of learning in aviation safety and is the result of extensive feedback from airline, business, and military pilots. Incorporating the Honeywell Anthem avionics suite, Overture offers pilots unprecedented situational awareness and ease of control, providing passengers with the safest possible flight experience.

Boom’s flight deck offers pilots the benefits of advanced automation and envelope protection, together with a force-feedback system that allows pilots to feel how the airplane is flying. With key airplane features accessible through high-definition touch screens, Overture can benefit from ongoing over-the-air software upgrades. Overture flight deck capabilities include:

  • Force-feedback sidesticks. For the first time on an airliner, force-feedback sidesticks allow pilots to control the plane while physically feeling both aircraft response and inputs made by the co-pilot or autopilot. 
  • Autoland and augmented reality. Building on the system flown on XB-1, Overture has an advanced augmented reality vision system for takeoff and landing, eliminating the need for the droop nose used on Concorde. Pilots can safely land using autoland or augmented reality views provided on a head-worn device and on the pilot’s primary flight display.
  • Large 17-inch touchscreens. High-definition touchscreens eliminate the hundreds of breakers and buttons found in legacy cockpits. Every airplane function is accessible through software while physical controls—such as stick, throttle, and landing gear—are offered for safety-critical functions.
  • Over-the-air upgrades. Overture will receive over-the-air software upgrades, meaning new features and improvements will arrive regularly. Airlines can control how upgrades are rolled out across fleets.

Boom recently completed a series of flight deck tests with commercial pilots from leading airlines, including Mike Bannister, former Chief Concorde Pilot for British Airways. 

“I’ve long believed that Overture is the rightful successor to Concorde,” said Mike Bannister, former Chief Concorde Pilot for British Airways. “After experiencing Overture’s flight deck, which is incredibly well designed and delightful to fly, my excitement and enthusiasm for this aircraft has only intensified.” 

Symphony engine advances to hardware testing; engine core to be operational in 18 months

Boom revealed in June that it is already building and rig-testing Symphony hardware, starting with a full-scale test of combustor aerodynamics. The first 3D-printed parts have been produced for Symphony, including fuel nozzles and turbine center frames. 

These hardware tests began just 18 months after the initial announcement of Symphony, demonstrating Boom’s rapid development approach. As part of this strategy, the company will conduct more than 30 engine hardware rig tests, allowing for validation and optimization of all key engine components, ranging from fan and nozzle acoustics to combustor fuel efficiency.

Boom also announced that it has accelerated development of a full-scale engine core, which will be operational in late 2025. Engine core testing will analyze performance of the compressor, combustor, and turbine section. Data gathered will further refine engineering and expedite production of a fully certified engine. Following this rapid development approach, Boom expects to build and test multiple iterations before certifying the final refined engine.

Boom also expanded its existing MRO partnership with StandardAero to include the production of Symphony. StandardAero will assemble and test Symphony engines at its facility in San Antonio, Texas. The Symphony assembly line will scale to produce 330 engines annually within a footprint projected to total over 100,000 square feet of production space.

“We are excited to expand our role to include the assembly and testing of Symphony engines, further supporting the development of next-generation flight with Boom,” said Russell Ford, Chairman and CEO of StandardAero. “Our collaboration is a testament to StandardAero’s world-class engineering capabilities and dedication to delivering solutions that power the future of air travel.”

Additionally, Boom announced it is teaming with aerospace leader ATI, Inc. for advanced high-temperature materials and components for Symphony’s high pressure compressor integrated blade and disk stages and for its turbine assembly. These advanced nickel-based superalloys will enable Symphony to achieve high performance and reliability in sustained supersonic operation.

Overture remains on target to achieve FAA and EASA certification by the end of the decade.

Signal Group Establishes Gas Monitoring Hire Fleet

Responding to a demand for short-term monitoring, Signal Group has established a fleet of gas measurement instruments that are available for hire. “Some of our customers only need the equipment for a specific project or for a short-term investigation,” explains MD James Clements. “In these circumstances it would not be sensible to purchase the equipment, because it may not be required at the end of the project, and the capital cost may be preclusive. We have therefore established a small range of our more popular instruments, which are now available for rent.”

The rental equipment includes Signal analysers employing FID for VOC and non-methane hydrocarbons; chemiluminescent analysers for NO/NOx; NDIR for multiple species such as CO, CO2, CH4, NO, N2O, SO2 and HCl. In addition to reference method gas analyzers, Signal Group also manufactures a comprehensive range of ancillary instruments including heated lines, sample conditioners, filters, cooler/dryers, methane cutters, NOx converters, sample dividers and calibration equipment. These instruments are all available for hire on a first-come, first-served basis.

Military/Aerospace Testing and Consulting Compliance Organization Receives 7th Consecutive ACIL Customer Quality Service Award

For the seventh consecutive year, D.L.S. Electronic Systems, a Wheeling, Ill.-based global compliance organization specializing in EMI/EMC, Environmental, Wireless and Product Safety testing and consulting for Military, Aviation/Avionics and other industries received the Customer Quality Service Award for 2022 – 2023 from the Washington, DC based American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL).

D.L.S. says this award sets them apart from other laboratories by demonstrating their continued commitment to quality of testing and customer service. The program was developed to address the industry’s quality issues and recognize those individual testing laboratories with exemplary quality performance. It provides companies and industry with a comprehensive mechanism to evaluate testing laboratories.

This award confirms the D.L.S. commitment to ensuring testing data integrity, meeting customers’ quality and timing needs and setting the highest performance standards for the testing laboratory industry.

No other evaluation program ranks customer satisfaction with laboratory services and requires laboratory management to commit to a data integrity program, an ethics program and submit a signed code of ethics. D.L.S. supports MIL STD 461, RTCA DO 160, MIL STD 810, MIL DTL 83528, and other industry standards for laboratory compliance testing. It is also an accredited ISO 17025 testing laboratory under the ANSI National Accreditation Board – ANAB.

Kaman Measuring Announces KD-5100+ High Reliability Sensor System for Fast Steering Mirror Control

The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products announced the KD-5100+, an upgraded higher reliability version of Kaman’s legacy KD-5100 measuring system. The KD-5100+ retains the proven performance of the KD-5100 system while incorporating upgrades to the circuit layout, ground connections, and sensor connectors. The upgraded system also features higher reliability diodes and capacitors.

The KD-5100+ is the ideal choice for laser communications, satellite and ground station applications, as well as directed energy (ground, shipboard, and airborne), and image stabilization systems.

Two precisely matched sensors of a measuring channel are positioned opposite each other on the back of a fast steering mirror (FSM) in two axes at 90 degrees to each other. As the FSM actuators drive the mirror about the center flexure, the mirror moves away from one sensor of an axis and toward the other sensor an equal amount. The KD-5100+ output signal is used to actively control mirror position.

At the heart of the upgraded KD-5100+ is a Mil-PRF-38534 Class H proprietary hybrid microcircuit. The system also features dual channel signal conditioner with two precisely matched sensors per channel.

Designed for thermal and long term stability, radiation tolerant, and suitable for vacuum applications, the KD-5100+ offers a small package size and low power consumption. It features isolated signal and chassis grounds and low outgassing components.

Signal conditioning electronics are available in the identical low profile enclosure as the KD-5100. Enclosure finish can be either black paint for low reflectivity or bright nickel finish for lower outgassing. Sensor and signal conditioner packaging can be customized for unique requirements.

Kaman offers high-precision, electro-mechanical contract manufacturing at its 215,000 square foot facility, with assembly to IPC-A-610 Class III and component traceability. Complete end-item data package (EIDP) development is available upon request. The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products follows rigorous aerospace quality systems. The manufacturing facility is certified to AS9100 and ISO 9001:2000 and features a class 100 clean room.

Evolution Measurement Appointed USA and Canada Sales Channel Partner for DMA

Evolution Measurement has been appointed as channel partner for Italian flight test instrument manufacturer, D. Marchiori Srl. (DMA) in the USA and Canada.

DMA design and manufacture test equipment for aircraft systems and components such as: RVSM compliant Air Data Test Sets and Systems; Pitot-Static adapters and air data accessory kits, fly-by-wire flight control surface movement analysers; tachometer test sets; absolute pressure calibration standards and transfer standards; tilt tables and equipment designed to customer specifications. They also produce laboratory and production grade instruments as well as a comprehensive range of flight-line instruments.

DMA’s precision aircraft ground test equipment is used in over 80 countries worldwide by established overhaul bases, civil airlines and general aviation and DMA are unique in being the only manufacturer to produce both test sets and a complete range of pitot-static adapters.

“Always delighted to be working with DMA, their flight test equipment is truly world class and we are excited to present the product range to our customers,” said Paul Crowhurst, Evolution Measurement’s managing director “We have detailed experience of this vibrant market and we’re looking forward to growing DMA’s presence in the USA and Canada.”

AMETEK MRO Muirhead Avionics Introduces the SDR-OMNI All-in-One Avionics Flight Line Test Set

Muirhead Avionics, a brand of AMETEK MRO and one of the largest independent avionics repair facilities in Europe (excluding Spain & Portugal), has secured exclusive distribution rights for the SDR-OMNI All-in-One Avionics Flight Test Set in Europe.

Manufactured by Tel Instruments (TIC), the SDR-OMNI Flight Line Test Set provides avionics technicians with a comprehensive suite of radio frequency (RF) avionics test capability in a single rugged, yet lightweight, package for demanding commercial and military customers. Professionally formatted reports can be downloaded via USB or wirelessly printed to a local wireless printer. 

This is the most advanced commercial flight line test set ever made. The combination of hardware and software can test virtually any RF signal from 200 kHz to 2.0 GHz. Test functions are implemented using software-defined signal processes that generate, receive, and measure complex avionics signals covering narrow band analog or digital communications, intricate navigation, and wide-band pulse or data protocols. 

“This device will be a game changer for avionics testing,” comments Steve Wells, Managing Director and Divisional Vice President at Muirhead Avionics. “At Muirhead, we endeavour to deliver the latest technologies to our customers, and this test set fits into our portfolio perfectly, offering unmatched capability and ease of use. This is the first RF test set that is completely software defined – technicians simply need to specify the avionics test app, or combination of apps they would like to use. It is also the lightest test set in the market at only 4.2 pounds. Additionally, its large 7-inch colour display with responsive touchscreen means the SDR-OMNI is designed with the specialised demands of commercial and military customers in mind.”  

Kaman Measuring Announces ThreadChecker with Inspection Capabilities

The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products has announced the availability of its improved ThreadChecker. This line of non-contact application-specific sensors provides rugged, reliable verification of thread presence or absence in nearly any electrically conductive material. The ThreadChecker is a teachable eddy current inspection tool, widely used for thread detection, material sorting, plating presence, and absence of heat treatment, as examples. Any physical property difference that relates to material conductivity is readily detected. These sensors are available from stock and ready to ship immediately.

The ThreadChecker is ideal for use in any automated inspection process. Consisting of a single electronics module compatible with any probe/material combination, the ThreadChecker can check threads regardless of part cleanliness, reducing the cost of implementation.

With Kaman’s proven eddy current technology at its core, the ThreadChecker is designed specifically for in-die use. It features four internal probes, ranging from 4 to 10 millimeters (mm) and two external probes, 6mm and 8mm. Available with a DIN rail mounting option, ThreadChecker is CE-compliant and features IP-67 rated probes and electronics.

The ThreadChecker is available with both switched and analog outputs. With the switched output option, the sensor is wired to a PLC or other controller, programmed to alarm when no thread is detected. As an alternative, users can monitor the analog voltage and program the PLC or other control device with limits suitable for the application.

OLYMPUS Becomes EVIDENT in Split from Global Medtech Company

Olympus Corp. announced the completion of the separation of its Scientific Solutions business to a wholly-owned subsidiary, Evident Corp. Following the divestiture of its Imaging business, this move further signifies the company’s long-term strategy to cement its position as a major player in the medtech industry.

The proposed split was first announced in June 2021. As a newly-established wholly-owned subsidiary, Evident, headquartered in Japan, continues to operate independently under the Olympus umbrella. Olympus’ Scientific Solutions business encompassed the Olympus Industrial and Life Science businesses.

The company says the reorganization will give the Scientific Solutions business the autonomy and agility to respond quickly and more flexibly to the needs of Industrial and Life Science customers. “Evident, while continuing to provide best-in-class products, will expand its digital and cloud-based solutions to enhance the customer experience and to improve the overall workflow in the research and inspection fields,” said Yoshitake Saito, president and representative director of Evident. “We will shift from a business model centered on the sale of products, to one focused on solving customer issues and challenges. With this greater management autonomy, we will promote agile product development and open innovation, which we believe will increase the speed of product development.”

The company says its new name exemplifies its “unwavering commitment to continue providing high-quality products and technical expertise.” The company also says it is putting a renewed focus on customer collaboration and responsiveness to customer concerns.

DTB Invests to Expand Capability and Accelerate Test Scheduling

Dayton T. Brown announced that it has invested $1.25 million in its laboratory in Bohemia, New York, to expand advanced testing capacity and position the company for future growth in the aerospace, defense, and aviation markets. With the expanded capability, DTB has addressed the increasingly stringent requirements of these growing markets while answering customer requests for faster turnaround times and flexible scheduling options. The investment includes:

Self-contained, Walk-in Temperature and Humidity Test Chamber. This addition augments current testing capability by adding a 10’ x 10’ x 10’, mid-size chamber option for customers, thereby increasing competitiveness and shortening lead times. This new chamber performs MIL-STD-810 and DO-160 temperature and humidity testing with higher and lower temperature extremes and faster ramp rates, features needed for contemporary testing requirements for products such as electric vehicle batteries, engine assemblies, and military munitions and weapons.

Custom-Built Solar Chamber. This provides a 12’ x 24’ x 10’ chamber designed to accommodate MIL-STD-810, ASTM, and ANSI testing specifications. Specialized solar testing measures the effects of the light intensity generated when commercial or military products such as automotive parts, computer screens, or handheld electronics sit in the sun for an extended period, along with aiding in the understanding of the effects of solar activity on climate change.

Upgraded Vibration Facilities and Capabilities. Several vibration tables have been reconfigured and upgraded, expanding DTB’s capacity for dynamics testing. The Company has combined its Unholtz Dickie T1000s, MB Dynamics C150s, and temperature hoods with new vibration control computers. This updated system allows DTB to meet a wider variety of test scheduling needs for the aerospace industry as well as the increased requirements of the Navy community.

Central Facility Hydraulic Power Supply. This upgrade is composed of three hydraulic power supply systems which provide redundancy and capacity to support the laboratory and its growing testing needs. The new power supplies are used to support DTB’s hydraulic, structural, and seismic testing capabilities, required for the growing aerospace market.

Scanning Electron Microscope. Features like dispersive spectroscopy, a color chamber scope, and stage navigation system, assist the Company’s growing need to perform engineering analysis and reverse engineering in support of service life extension programs (SLEP).
6-axis Portable Measurement Arm. Specialized for high-accuracy probing, and flexible enough to be used nearly anywhere on the manufacturing floor, this tool helps to ease bottlenecks and reduce lead times. This state-of-the-art measuring arm delivers real-time dimensional feedback at the point of production for interim and final product and fixture fabrication. Improvements such as this enhance DTB’s recently expanded fabrication and machining center, offering customers in-house machining, tooling, and test fixture design and fabrication option to go along with engineering and test services. One-stop-shopping leads to reduced turn-around times and streamlined scheduling for customers’ mission-critical programs.

“We continue to expand our capabilities and push the boundaries of innovation here on Long Island to remain the most comprehensive test facility able to supply all our customer’s testing needs under one roof,” commented Jim Kelly, president, Dayton T. Brown, Inc. “We’re committed to responding to customer needs by advancing capabilities, increasing capacity, and providing flexibility to meet challenging schedules,” he continued.