Central Wire Group of companies can serve various mission-critical Aérospatial et Militaire et défense applications and is proud to be a trusted supplier for major corporations as well as the American government. Mission-critical Aerospace manufacturing requires precision to meet tight tolerances and exact industry specifications, to support the safety and efficiency of these cutting-edge applications.
This industry is one that has sparked concern about sustainability and environmental factors over the years. The Aerospace industry emits close to 1 billion metric tons of CO2, as of 2023 according to Aerospace Manufacturing and Design statistics. With aviation greenhouse gases making up 9-12% of U.S Transportation’s total GHG emissions, choices to become more sustainable are paramount.
As per the Net-Zero coalition, these emissions must significantly decrease to meet the net-zero emission goal set for 2050. The aviation industry has recognized this issue, and advancements that prioritize sustainability have been put into motion. As this is a mission-critical, required industry, changes to the way aircraft are manufactured and flown are necessary to meet environmentally friendly goals.
Continue reading to discover some of the trends shaping sustainability and prioritizing a greener future in Aerospace, this year and beyond.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)
One of the most influential changes being researched and tested to improve sustainability in the Aerospace industry is the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). Sometimes called biofuel, this jet fuel alternative is produced from biological sources. An estimated 1 billion dry tons of biomass can be collected sustainably in the USA every year, enough to produce 50-60 billion gallons of low-carbon biofuels, according to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
This type of fuel is made from resources such as corn grain, oil seeds, algae and other fats, oils and greases. To this point, commercial flights are able to fly with a blend of SAF and conventional jet fuel up to 50%, according to the Air Transport Action Group. The industry is working towards commercial aircraft being permitted to fly on 100% SAF in the near future, however.
SAF production and use presents an opportunity for huge progress towards Net-Zero emissions, especially when aircraft are eventually able to fly with 100% biofuel. There is even optimism that sustainable aviation fuel can reduce CO2 emissions by 100% in the future, or even have a negative emissions lifecycle, absorbing more CO2 than they emit.
Sustainable aviation fuel can completely alter the environmental impact of Aerospace, should its implementation be successful. It is also likely to create countless new jobs, as well as providing a solution to volatile fuel costs. There will be challenges in terms of having adequate supply for commercial viability, as well as a need for upfront investment, but the shift in this industry could be driven by the use of SAFs.
Sustainable Manufacturing Processes
Changes to the manufacturing practices and the supply chain can pay huge dividends to the overall emissions and carbon footprint of this industry. The environmental impact of Aerospace may be felt more significantly when planes are in the air but is not negligible during manufacturing. As with many other industries, sustainable manufacturing practices have recently become a major priority.
The use of sustainable materials can contribute to limiting the emissions from Aerospace plants. Recycled materials such as recycled aluminum and carbon fiber, and bio-based composites made from natural fibers and resins can all create environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional composites and materials.
Energy-efficient manufacturing processes can lessen the environmental burden during the production of airplane parts or assembly of finished aircraft. Using Renewable Energy sources such as solar and wind energy to power production facilities can reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing the greenhouse gas emissions. Using energy recovery systems, which capture and reuse wasted heat, can also significantly boost the energy efficiency of the facility.
Limiting waste and pollution can be done through a few innovative solutions. Relying on Usinage CNC for precision parts, which we can provide at Loos, offers the exact part required, powered by extreme durability, to avoid unnecessary waste or repairs. There are also ways to implement lean manufacturing processes, focusing on minimizing waste, maximizing efficiency, and reducing unnecessary manufacturing steps.
Advanced Aircraft Design
One of the easier and short-term solutions for limiting aviation carbon emissions is by optimizing their design. The main function of this optimization is to provide the best fuel efficiency possible to lessen the environmental impact of each individual flight.
Some of the most effective ways to do this are by making slight improvements such as:
- Enhancing engine designs to improve performance and fuel efficiency
- Improving aerodynamic designs
- Using lighter weight fabrication materials when possible
- Using advanced coatings
Strict research and testing are used at all times in Aerospace due to the rigorous safety requirements of the industry. This means that new aerodynamic designs, material options, or engine developments can be tested and simulated to test if performance and fuel efficiency improve, and if safety measures are met.
With no confirmed timeline on wholesale changes like SAFs replacing jet fuel, or the potential implementation of advanced propulsion systems, such as electric or solar, changing the designs of aircraft is an effective way to limit emissions while larger advancements are still in the works.
How Central Wire Helps to Soar to Sustainability Targets
At Central Wire Group of Companies, our quality, precision and knowledge allow for many of our product lines to contribute to safety and efficiency in the skies. Our 4 AS9100 certified locations manufacture to tight tolerances for applications from flight control to emergency systems and more. Our material capabilities and priority on durability will help support the push for sustainable practices and parts in the future of Aerospace.
We are experts in Aircraft Control and Military Cable Assemblies, leveraging our product quality and customization capabilities to meet the flight control demands of this industry. Our Cable and Fittings are manufactured in house, giving us the quality control from start to finish that builds the trust with our Aerospace customers.
Our custom Usinage CNC products and specialty fil de barre meet the tolerances and specifications for effective application in the Aerospace industry. This customization is key to discovering advancements in the design of aircraft, as well as to enhance engine designs. These materials can also be applied in small connective components on planes such as fasteners, bolts and screws.
The Aerospace industry today has already made huge strides to cut down their carbon emissions and help reach Net-Zero by 2050. With more research and advancements, combined with rigorous testing, this industry can become the key to creating a greener future.
To invest in our globally known quality, precision, and knowledge of Aerospace applications and products, Request a Quote with us today!
