Constellium N.V., Amsterdam, announces that three of its researchers were awarded the Medal of the Academy by the Air and Space Academy for their achievement in developing groundbreaking Airware aluminum-lithium alloys: ASM member Timothy Warner, Knowledge Director and Metallurgy Group Manager; Alireza Arbab, Project Manager; and Bruno Chenal, Strategic Innovation Director. They received the medal at the annual Solemn Session held by the AAE on November 25 in Toulouse, France.
“We are particularly proud that Airware is now flying on the most prestigious aircraft and space programs, such as the Airbus A350 XWB, Bombardier’s CSeries, the SpaceX Falcon Launcher, and Lockheed Martin’s Orion Capsule,” said Mr. Chenal.
Airware is a major component in the advanced materials portfolio of the A350 XWB manufactured by Airbus. At the same session, Fabrice Brégier, President and CEO of Airbus, received the Academy’s Grand Award for his decisive role in the success of the A350 XWB program.
Constellium’s Airware was launched in 2010 as a group of high-performance aluminum-lithium alloys suitable for applications in all parts of the primary aerostructure. Airware’s lower density and improved properties allow optimization of structural designs, which leads to an overall weight reduction and a drop in CO2 emissions. Airware guarantees higher durability due to its greater resistance to fatigue and corrosion, which enables airlines to target extended intervals of heavy maintenance. Airware is endlessly recyclable without any loss of properties. The technology contributes to the development of a sustainable aerospace industry.
