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Technology update
TRW builds thrust reverser for CRJ700
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Bombardier Aerospace has selected TRW Aeronautical Systems' thrust reverser actuation system for its CRJ700 regional jet. TRW is working with Bombardier Aerospace's Belfast, Ireland, unit, which designed and built the engine nacelle for the General Electric CF34-8C1 engine. Enhanced reliability, ease of maintenance, and low cost of ownership were the design goals for the complete nacelle.
Designed and produced at TRW Aeronautical Systems' facility in Wolverhampton, England, the thrust reverser is a four-actuator, mechanically synchronized system with three levels of safety retention to prevent uncommanded deployment and encompasses control units and cowl lock. The use of hydraulics by the system protects the thrust reverser structure from high peak loading, which may occur with pneumatic systems, enabling lighter and more-efficient structural components to be used. The increased efficiency and light weight of the thrust-reverser system results in higher reliability and lower operating costs over its pneumatic counterpart.
The company is also working as a team member in the integration of the thrust reverser to the aircraft, providing direct support for both aircraft and engine testing. The 70-passenger CRJ700 aircraft already has 99 firm orders, and following certification, the aircraft is expected to enter service in the first quarter of 2001.
Frank Bokulich
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