Schaeffler was awarded a contract lasting 12 years by engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce. Schaeffler says this cooperation presents a “win-win” for both companies. Rolls-Royce is securing the rolling bearing supply chain until 2035 with Schaeffler’s products and manufacturing technologies, whereas Schaeffler is making an important step in its growth initiative by supporting Rolls-Royce with their products, R&D and manufacturing.
Schaeffler will continue to offer the latest production technology and support engine development with optimized manufacturing processes through its “High Performance Bearing Manufacture” program. The focus of the cooperation is on rolling bearing systems for aircraft engines in the growth areas of business aviation and widebody aircraft.
Schaeffler will be responsible for 100% of Rolls-Royce’s supply volume in Europe. The majority of the product portfolio will be manufactured at Schaeffler Aerospace Germany in Schweinfurt, the company reports. Moreover, Schaeffler will support new development programs with its capabilities from simulation and design to manufacture and rig-testing, supporting the joint Rolls-Royce/Schaeffler technology roadmap.
“We are very proud that a company as large and important as Rolls-Royce has committed itself to us with such a long-running contract. Our two companies have achieved so much together. This is not only down to our expertise and quality demands, but also our common understanding of how business developments must take place in the future,” said Dr. Stefan Spindler, CEO Industrial at Schaeffler.
“With our solutions we can contribute to the target of Zero Emissions in the aviation industry,” added Armin Necker, managing director at Schaeffler Aerospace Germany.
Building on the 12-year contract, intensified MRO activities (maintenance, repair and overhaul) are planned which will cover the supply of refurbished bearings.