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Eurocopter/HAIG select Claverham Limited for supply of Primary Flight Control Actuators for the new EC175-Z15 helicopter Bristol , UK - Claverham Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hamilton Sundstrand, has secured the contract to perform the development, production and customer support of the primary flight control actuators for both the French EC175 and the Z15 Chinese variant. Andrew West, Sales & Marketing Director of Claverham Limited, said "This strategic win further develops our position as a preferred supplier of flight control actuation into the global helicopter market and gives us the opportunity to further develop our centre of excellence for primary flight control technology". The new civil helicopter is due to make its first flight in 2009, with European and Chinese certification set for 2011, the year in which production is due to start. Eurocopter (wholly owned by EADS), is one of the largest helicopter manufacturers in the world and is working with its Chinese partner HAIG on this project. The two organisations will share the development on a 50/50 basis and each country will have its own assembly line. Sales forecasts for this latest generation helicopter call for 800 to be sold worldwide over the next 20 years. Hamilton Sundstrand is part of United Technologies Corporation (NYSE:UTX). Employing about 16,000 people worldwide, Hamilton Sundstrand is a leading worldwide supplier of advanced aerospace and industrial systems. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BLACKHAWK CONTRACT FOR CLAVERHAM Claverham Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of U.S.-based Hamilton Sundstrand, has been selected to develop and supply the Main Rotor Actuators for Sikorsky's fly-by-wire (FBW) UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters. The contract is expected to a have a value exceeding $100m over the life of the program. Development begins immediately with first flight tests scheduled for 2007. Geoff Dore, President of Claverham Limited, said, "Following recent success on the Sikorsky Aircraft S-92 programme, this win places Claverham as a lead supplier of FBW primary flight control actuation to Sikorsky." In addition to the Main Rotor Actuators, Hamilton Sundstrand also will provide the advanced flight control computers on the fly-by-wire version of the UH-60M Black Hawk. Hamilton Sundstrand is part of United Technologies Corporation (NYSE:UTX). Employing about 16,000 worldwide, Hamilton Sundstrand is a leading worldwide supplier of advanced aerospace and industrial systems.
DREAM CONTRACT FOR CLAVERHAM Firm wins £150m contract for Boeing 7E7 Dreamliner Claverham Limited, the Somerset-based aerospace and defence equipment specialist, has today announced that it will supply actuation systems and control valves to Hamilton Sundstrand for the Boeing 7E7 Dreamliner. The company estimates the value of the work over the life of the program will be approximately £150 million, the company's largest award ever. Claverham was selected by the Air Management Systems Enterprise of Hamilton Sundstrand as part of its team to deliver the environmental control system of the Boeing 7E7. "Claverham competed with firms from all over the world, but it was the firm's expertise and innovation in simplifying the product and significantly reducing the cost to build and maintain it, which secured the win," said Don Stein, 7E7 Program Manager at Hamilton Sundstrand. Alan Bean, Claverham CEO, said: "This contract helps cement Claverham's position not only as a European leader for electro-mechanical actuation systems but also increasingly as a global competitor. This is the biggest new commercial aircraft programme the industry is likely to see this decade." "It also marks a significant turning point for Claverham, giving us the opportunity to develop as a centre of excellence for a completely new product range, possibly leading to additional business on other major civil and defence aircraft programmes," he added. Claverham will design, build and deliver approximately 35 electro-mechanical actuators and control valves per aircraft to operate what will be one of the most sophisticated environmental control systems on a commercial airline. The Boeing 7E7's environmental control system will maintain a cabin air pressure equivalent to staying at a chalet in Austria even when the Dreamliner is cruising at over 13km high . Humidity will also be higher than other jetliners, helping to reduce the dryness of passengers ' mouths and eyes. The environmental control system provides fresh air to the passengers and also regulates the cabin air pressure and temperature for overall passenger comfort. At the peak of the programme Claverham will be delivering more than 3,000 units components a year with Boeing expecting to deliver up to 2,500 aircraft over the next 25 years. To support its work for Hamilton Sundstra n d on the Boeing 7E7, the company will invest more than £2 million in engineering and development work over the next four years. Claverham is a Hamilton Sundstrand company and employs about 250 people, near Bristol, UK.
ACQUISITION MAKES CLAVERHAM LEADER IN EUROPE Claverham Limited, the Somerset-based aerospace and defence equipment specialist, announced today the acquisition of the fin actuation business of BAE Systems. The acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, makes Claverham the leading supplier in Europe for missile control actuation systems, providing up to £4 million in annual sales over the next five years, and creating 12 new jobs at the company's site in Claverham. Alan Bean, Chief Executive, said: "The acquisition of BAE Systems' fin actuation business significantly strengthens our position in the market, not only as Europe's leading supplier but increasingly a global player in the supply of control actuation systems for guided weapons. We have consistently demonstrated world-class technical expertise with cost-effective designs and customer focus. Acquiring BAE Systems' fin actuation business will enable us access to an even wider market." The acquisition adds four product lines to Claverham's existing guided weapons portfolio, including the Sea Wolf and Sea Dart missiles for the Ministry of Defence.
UK HARRIER GENERATOR SUPPORT CONTRACT Claverham Limited Customer Service Team have been successful in winning a contract to support UK Harrier Generators in spares inclusive, guaranteed turn round time contract for the next 5 years. Claverham will manage the logistical arrangements for module repair of 30Kva generators on behalf of the OEM being Hamilton Sundstrand of Windsor Locks Connecticut USA and Claverhams UK partner and sub-contractor who will repair the modules at DARA Sealand in North Wales. It is hoped that this contract will open the doors to other items of equipment that Claverham can use it's expertise in Support Chain Management to improve the process of support at a reduced cost to the final customer the UK Ministry Of Defence.
MECHANICAL AMMUNITION LOAD ASSIST SYSTEM FOR KADDB FHL, a division of Claverham Limited, is pleased to announce that the company has been selected by KADDB (King Abdullah l I Design and Development Bureau) to design and develop a mechanical ammunition load assist system, to be integrated into the recently announced (Janes Aug 20th) Challenger 1 interim hybrid turret upgrade programme. Claverham a division of Hamilton Sundstrand and a subsidiary of UTC has been working closely with KADDB for three years to develop and integrate an 11 round ammunition autoloader into Falcon 2’s unmanned low profile high survivability turret fitted with a120mm smooth bore gun for its fleet of Al-Hussein (ex UK Challenger 1) tanks Claverham has also been selected to develop a 17
round auto loader for the next phase of the Falcon programme (Falcon
3), which will be dependant on the outcome of Falcon 2 field trials
and assessment by the Jordanian Armed Forces later this year.
IAD Rail Systems have been awarded a contract by Edgar Allen Limited for the supply of HPSS points operating and detection systems to the St Pancras Station project. St Pancras is to be transformed into a modern world-class terminal for high-speed international and domestic rail services. Extensive refurbishment and expansion of this landmark station is being carried out as part of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL), Britain’s first high speed railway and a most important transport and regeneration project. Delivery of HPSS is due to commence towards the end of 2003 and finish in 2005.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WEST COAST ROUTE MODERNISATION
IAD Rail Systems have received a substantial order from West Coast Route Modernisation (WCRM) to supply HPSA equipment to the prestigious WCRM project. This major commitment by WCRM and Network Rail is
welcomed by IAD as a major step in securing a long-term relationship
with this major U.K. project, which is modernising one of the country’s
most important transport routes between London and the North. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Claverham Limited, the aerospace and defence equipment company now owned by Hamilton Sundstrand, has been selected by Sikorsky to supply Fly-By-Wire Primary Flight Controls for its S-92 medium-lift helicopter. This selection is in addition to the Mechanical Main Rotor Servo Contract already awarded in 2002. It utilises Claverham’s expertise in bringing the existing structural aspects of the Mechanical Main Rotor Servo together with Claverham’s Electro Hydraulic Servo Valve Technology. The S-92 is a multinational helicopter based on
Sikorsky’s successful BLACKHAWK and SEAHAWK military helicopters
and is designed to serve a variety of commercial needs including airline
passenger (19-22 capacity), emergency medical evacuation, civil search
and rescue, VIP transport and offshore oil support. The S-92 was certified
by the Federal Aviation Administration in December 2002 and is the winner
of the 2002 Collier Trophy for aviation excellence from the National
Aeronautical Association. “This win is a clear example of the synergy
benefits of our acquisition by Hamilton Sundstrand. FHL’s position
within Hamilton Sundstrand significantly improves our global footprint
in both our marketing and systems capabilities to meet our customers’
current and future needs.”
HEAT PROGRAMME MAKES ALL-ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT ACHIEVABLE FHL, division of the Somerset-based Claverham Group, has announced that results of the development work that its engineers are carrying out on the Helicopter Electric Actuation Technology (HEAT) programme indicate that an all-electric aircraft could be a reality within the next decade. As a member of a HEAT consortium, FHL is developing Electro-Mechanical (EM) actuation for rotorcraft. This focuses on the replacement of conventional hydraulic powered systems by electrically powered equivalents. This technology is currently being targeted at the Agusta Westland EH101 and the indications are that adoption of HEAT technology could produce savings in both weight and cost. Agusta Westland’s initial analysis shows that EM flight controls produce not only weight saving’s in excess of 250kg but also substantial savings in terms of both recurring and through life cost. Claverham Chief Executive Alan Bean explained that HEAT technology can bring many other benefits to the aircraft: “HEAT is a significant step forward in flight control technology. The current applications that we are developing have an identical form and fit to their conventional counterparts, but as well as highly desirable weight and cost savings their adoption also brings significant improvements in availability, reliability and maintainability”. “The replacement of hydraulically powered
systems by electrically powered equivalents will permit rationalisation
of the helicopter power supply arrangement, and potential elimination
of conventional hydraulic systems. We believe electric flight controls
could be fully qualified and market offerable by 2004 making an all-electric
helicopter achievable within the next decade.
IAD PATENT AWARD IAD Rail Systems (Claverham Limited) have been awarded
a patent for their unique points operating lock and detection system
by the European Patent Office. The Patent Number is 1077860.
RAIL TRAINING CENTRE
From the 1st November, Catalis Rail Training Ltd will be running training courses at Derby using their recently installed RT60 track panel fitted with HPSS. IAD Rail Systems have a business agreement with Catalis to provide technical expertise, equipment and support to this new facility. Training courses have been created by Catalis with
IAD Rail Systems' help and are available for installation, testing and
maintenance. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLAVERHAM OPENS GLOBAL MARKETS Claverham Group, a Hamilton Sundstrand company, takes its place among the exhibitors at Farnborough International 2002 (Hall3, Stand D7) as a key member of a global aerospace family. Since joining Hamilton Sundstrand some 18 months ago, Claverham has seen a significant increase in sales as a result of winning a number of substantial contracts in new, key markets. Claverham has grown from the niche actuation company that exhibited here in 2000, to a valued member of a significant US and European based multi-national group capable of offering complete aircraft and weapon sub system solutions. Claverham Group was formed following the acquisition of Fairey Hydraulics Limited (FHL) from Fairey Group plc in January 1998. The company employs some 330 people at its factory near Bristol in Southwest England . Claverham is part of Hamilton Sundstrand’s Flight Systems and Services group, a major systems house created to expand the flight systems capabilities and aftermarket services offered by Hamilton Sundstrand. Commenting on Claverham’s rapid integration into the Hamilton Sundstrand family and their successes since Farnborough 2000, Chairman Alan Bean said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to present the new Claverham at Farnborough 2002. Our new status as part of the Hamilton Sundstrand global family has brought unprecedented business successes and created a number of new business opportunities that prior to our joining would have been impossible to consider”. “Our innovative actuation products, coupled with Hamilton Sundstrand’s systems capabilities and global presence give us unprecedented access to traditionally tough markets such as those in Europe and North America . Not only that, but our performance on recent contracts such as those at Sikorsky are resulting in the placement of substantial follow-on new business from these delighted customers.” Claverham’s FHL Division is engaged in groundbreaking development work on a number of programmes, including HEAT, within which it is bringing the dream of an all-electric aircraft closer to reality. The division’s specialist Guided Weapons facility continues to design and build innovative fin actuation systems for missile programmes such as Meteor, Marte MkII and RBS15. In addition to this work, FHL are also examining new markets for their actuation products. Team of engineers are currently examining the application of electro-mechanical actuation in gas turbines, civil aircraft, and armoured vehicles where the company has recently won a contract to supply ammunition autoloader systems to the Jordanian Falcon program. The SCM division has been integrated into Claverham’s Customer Services Group and is now exploring new applications for the unique logistics management concept. SCM continues to develop the teaming agreement with BAE Systems to support several UK MoD platforms, while the acquisition by Hamilton Sundstrand has significantly increased the global scope for equipment support on a variety of European and North American in-service military aircraft. The Claverham Group has rapidly evolved during the periods between Farnborough’s airshows and FIA2002 sees the company better placed than ever to meet the challenges of a consolidating global aerospace market.
HEAT BENEFITS FIRE FHL INTO NEW STUDIES FHL, a division of the Claverham Group, a Hamilton Sundstrand company, is using the expertise gained on its Helicopter Electric Actuation Technology (HEAT) programme to play a leading role in two major aerospace technology studies. A team of engineers at FHL’s Somerset headquarters are now studying civil aerospace applications of electro-mechanical control systems under a national programme funded by the Department of Trade and Industry, while the company has also recently started work on a pan-European Tilt Rotor technology study. As part of the Totally Integrated More Electric System (TIMES) scheme, FHL is looking at civil aerospace applications and will develop and supply an electro mechanical actuation system to drive the aileron of an Airbus A320. This system will be fitted onto a representative test rig to demonstrate its full performance envelope. The replacement of conventional hydraulic equipment with electro mechanical devices brings significant benefits in weight reduction, reliability and reduced life-cycle cost. The FHL team had intended to supply an actuator originally developed as a demonstrator for the HEAT programme, which is designed to replace conventional hydraulic systems on helicopter platforms with electro mechanical equipment. However, despite the fact that electro-mechanical equipment is usually bigger and heavier, the team has now developed a bespoke actuator that can easily fit within the existing A320 wing profile, whilst meeting the stringent safety requirements demanded by civil aircraft programmes. In a separate study, an FHL design team has also been tasked with evaluating the design and cost of an electric actuation system for the Pan-European ACT-TILT project. Teaming with leading European aerospace companies such as Agusta Westland and Eurocopter, FHL will concentrate their efforts on the flight control system, which is critical in the definition of a safe, reliable and affordable European tilt-rotor aircraft. Managing Director Steve Butler believes that the FHL’s involvement in these projects highlights the unique expertise that the company possesses: "FHL is uniquely placed to bring the experience and innovative solutions that we have developed on existing programmes such as HEAT to these new and exciting projects. It is particularly pleasing to introduce the technology developed for military programmes into civil applications and we see market this as a significant growth area in the future.”
FHL TURNS UP THE HEAT ON ELECTRIC HELICOPTER
FHL, a division of the Claverham Group, a Hamilton Sundstrand company, has been awarded the contract to develop electro-mechanical main and tail rotor actuators for the EH101 helicopter. Working within the HEAT (Helicopter Electric Actuation Technology) consortium with AgustaWestland, BAE Systems and UK MoD, FHL has embarked on a four-year development project to demonstrate full authority fly-by-wire and power-by-wire technology for the EH101. FHL’s electro-mechanical actuators are designed to replace the conventional hydraulic powered flight control actuators on the EH101. The introduction of this new technology will deliver improved aircraft capability and safety, while reducing complexity, weight and cost. FHL Managing Director Steve Butler said: “The development of safety critical electro-mechanical actuator technology under the HEAT programme represents a significant step towards the first truly all-electric aircraft. “ Once fully developed, the HEAT system will be fitted onto an EH101 helicopter for flight-testing in late 2004, with a view to retrofitting the equipment onto the Royal Navy’s Merlin Mk1 and the RAF’s Merlin Mk3.
FHL SYSTEM PERFORMS WELL IN PC-21 FLIGHT
TESTING FHL, a division of the Claverham Group, a Hamilton Sundstrand company, has been praised for supply and integration of the complete actuation and hydraulic system for the latest Pilatus training aircraft, the PC-21. FHL has successfully met the integration challenges associated with this new system configuration. The PC-21 made its first flight earlier this month and is designed to meet the customer needs for a versatile trainer capable of delivering basic, advanced and fighter lead-in training. The PC-21 contract is the latest in a history of collaboration between Pilatus and FHL, who currently supply hydraulic equipment to both the PC-9 and PC-7 MkII aircraft. The contract significantly expands FHL’s traditional role with Pilatus into that of a systems integrator, and the company successfully delivered two complete aircraft development systems within 14 months of contract award. FHL Managing Director Steve Butler believes that the company’s expanded role is a testimony to its successful track record: “FHL’s selection as the PC-21 systems integrator is the culmination of a long history of commitment to Pilatus, coupled with a proven ability to deliver competitive systems solutions on time and at minimal risk.” A team from FHL is currently supporting the certification programme of the aircraft, which will be certified in 2004. Considerable interest in the PC-21 has already been expressed by a number of air forces.
FHL DELIVERS THE GOODS AND EXPANDS SIKORSKY ROLE
FHL, a division of the Claverham Group, a Hamilton Sundstrand company, has successfully delivered the first set of hydraulic transfer and supply modules for Sikorsky’s new S-92 medium-lift helicopter – and has subsequently won a contract to supply main rotor actuators to this programme. FHL was awarded the main rotor actuator contract following a hard-fought competitive tender against the industry’s leading equipment suppliers. One of the key reasons behind FHL’s selection was the company’s first-class performance on the modules contract, coupled with proven flight controls capability on the Lynx and AB139 helicopter programmes. The new actuator design forms part of a total aircraft reliability and performance enhancement programme conducted by Sikorsky on the S-92. Following delivery in mid 2003, the new actuators will undergo a 14-month qualification programme prior to full flight clearance. Having been awarded the hydraulic modules contract in April 2001, FHL teams have been working on the qualification programme since May this year. The modules are due to be fully approved for flight release in September. While the individual components are relatively simple to manufacture, the integration process has been particularly complex with FHL teams achieving new industry standards in titanium billet machining. Commenting on this significant progress on the S-92 programme, FHL Managing Director Steve Butler said: “Winning these contracts from Sikorsky against stiff international competition is a clear demonstration of FHL’s ability to deliver innovative and cost-effective design solutions against very tight programme leadtimes.”
RECENT PRESS COVERAGE ON HPSS
In response to recent press coverage about HPSS, IAD Rail Systems believe it is necessary to re-state the fundamental facts about the capabilities of the system and the reasons for the ongoing programme of introduction into the Rail Network. IAD Rail Systems have worked closely with Railtrack in its development of HPSS, which has been specifically designed to improve upon the reliability and availability of existing systems. The improvement in reliability and the reduction in maintenance activity is the reason for the ongoing programme of installation in Railtrack's infrastructure. The safety of existing points and their operating systems has been exceptionally good and it took an extensive Safety Case to demonstrate that HPSS was at least as good as existing in terms of safety and mitigation of risks. Railtrack's primary concern has always been safety first. Following extensive testing and in-track trials at Tamworth, the system was productionised and gained the necessary Certificate of Acceptance to begin widespread usage in the UK Rail Network. The equipment is more expensive to purchase, but because of its lower cost of ownership soon recovers that investment. The HPSS uses proportional transducers to continuously monitor where the switch rails are in relation to the stock (fixed) rails. It does this on both the closed and the open switch rails, at the toes and at supplementary positions. If either of the rails moves out of limits the system will remove signalling detection. If the data from the transducers is monitored i.e. as part of a Condition Monitoring regime, very small movements of the rails can be detected, before limits are even reached. In existing systems, limit switches detect the limits of movement. During the Tamworth Trial it was the ability to see the history of the movement of the open rail that allowed the correct diagnosis of a loose stretcher bar. In recent days, IAD Rail Systems has been asked to comment, by the press, on the ability of HPSS to detect the in-correct movement of switch rails due to loose stretcher bars. The reason for this media interest is clearly the recent unfortunate fatal accident at Potters Bar. IAD Rail Systems has made it quite clear that, until the exact cause and sequence of events that caused the accident are known, it is impossible to know what could or could not have prevented the accident. IAD Rail Systems have not stated that use of HPSS at Potter Bar would have prevented the accident.
In response to recent press coverage about HPSS, IAD Rail Systems believe it is necessary to re-state the fundamental facts about the capabilities of the system and the reasons for the ongoing programme of introduction into the Rail Network. IAD Rail Systems have worked closely with Railtrack in its development of HPSS, which has been specifically designed to improve upon the reliability and availability of existing systems. The improvement in reliability and the reduction in maintenance activity is the reason for the ongoing programme of installation in Railtrack's infrastructure. The safety of existing points and their operating systems has been exceptionally good and it took an extensive Safety Case to demonstrate that HPSS was at least as good as existing in terms of safety and mitigation of risks. Railtrack's primary concern has always been safety first. Following extensive testing and in-track trials at Tamworth, the system was productionised and gained the necessary Certificate of Acceptance to begin widespread usage in the UK Rail Network. The equipment is more expensive to purchase, but because of its lower cost of ownership soon recovers that investment. The HPSS uses proportional transducers to continuously monitor where the switch rails are in relation to the stock (fixed) rails. It does this on both the closed and the open switch rails, at the toes and at supplementary positions. If either of the rails moves out of limits the system will remove signalling detection. If the data from the transducers is monitored i.e. as part of a Condition Monitoring regime, very small movements of the rails can be detected, before limits are even reached. In existing systems, limit switches detect the limits of movement. During the Tamworth Trial it was the ability to see the history of the movement of the open rail that allowed the correct diagnosis of a loose stretcher bar. In recent days, IAD Rail Systems has been asked to comment, by the press, on the ability of HPSS to detect the in-correct movement of switch rails due to loose stretcher bars. The reason for this media interest is clearly the recent unfortunate fatal accident at Potters Bar. IAD Rail Systems has made it quite clear that, until the exact cause and sequence of events that caused the accident are known, it is impossible to know what could or could not have prevented the accident. IAD Rail Systems have not stated that use of HPSS at Potter Bar would have prevented the accident.
IAD RAIL SYSTEMS SECURES GROWING ORDER BOOK
IAD Rail Systems, a division of the Somerset-based Claverham Limited, takes its place (Hall 1 Stand 520) at the Infrarail 2001 Exhibition following the most important 12 months in the company’s short history - one which has seen it secure significant orders for its unique High Performance Switch System (HPSS). Over the past year IAD has successfully demonstrated the HPSS at a pilot site at Nunhead Junction and the new innovative points system has now secured production orders for the West Coast Route Modernisation, the Channel Tunnel Rail Link Route with Southern Zone and Virgin Cross Country routes. At this year’s show, IAD Rail Systems will be displaying a working model of its HPSS equipment and RT60 versions which have been installed at St Mary Cray Junction – the first fully-compliant installation of RT60 in the UK rail network. Also featured on the stand will be details of the Swing Nose Crossing equipment which has been ordered for Rugely and Basford Hall junctions as part of the West Coast Route Modernisation programme (WCRM). The unique design of the in-bearer HPSS will lead to a significant reduction in the points failures that cause many train delays. The integrated system approach behind the design means that the system is extremely reliable and inherently maintenance-free. Switch and crossing systems are currently a significant cause of rail traffic delays because of regular failures of their component parts. IAD Rail Systems’ HPSS has been designed to eliminate these failures and to operate without the need for routine maintenance. Commenting on the company’s progress over the past year, IAD Rail Systems Marketing Director Mick Ledger said: “Now that the HPSS has been proven in the field the orders have started to come in and we have been inundated with enquiries from potential customers. We hope to be able to talk to several of them at Infrarail 2001. We would like to invite any forward thinking rail project teams to come along and see a piece of equipment that will bring consistent reduction in train journey times through higher speeds and reduced delays.“
SCM SIGNS LONG-TERM AGREEMENT WITH BAE SYSTEMS
SCM, the Support Chain Management Division of the Claverham aerospace and defence equipment group, has further extended its unique logistics management concept. To enhance its strategic position in the marketplace, SCM has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Operational Services Values Stream of BAE SYSTEMS Customer Solutions & Support (CS&S). This agreement forms a key part of the BAE SYSTEMS Support Strategy initiative and supports the Partnering Agreement signed by John Weston, Managing Director of BAES, and General Sir Sam Cowan of the Defence Logistics Organisation (DLO) last year. The new MOU will allow the SCM Division to offer BAE Systems access to best practices in supporting hydromechanical equipment on operational aircraft. This will also complement the developing BAES/DARA Whirlwind Joint Venture Activities. Pilot studies will shortly commence which will establish the specific benefits of the logistics management system and develop a project proposal for the DLO. The SCM Division was established by Claverham to revolutionise the relationship between equipment suppliers and the military aircraft operational customer and to reduce aircraft downtime. Under the terms of this smart procurement initiative payments are made to the supplier according to operational availability rather than for repairs following a breakdown. Commenting on the new accord, SCM Managing Director Alan Fisher said: “This is an important step for Claverham. The long-term intention of both parties is to convert this MOU into a Teaming Agreement that will enable us to supply SCM to support mechanical equipment on BAE SYSTEMS aircraft with the Royal Air Force.”
CLAVERHAM SIGNS GROUND-BREAKING SCM CONTRACT
SCM, the Support Chain Management Division of the Claverham aerospace defence and equipment group, has signed a ground-breaking agreement with FR Hi Temp that extends its unique logistics management process into new territory. The new partnership covers fuel valve actuators on the RAF’s Tornado fleet, a component for which FR Hi Temp is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). This is the first time that the Support Chain Management principle has been extended to cover equipment for which Claverham’s FHL Division is not the original supplier. Under the agreement SCM Division can coordinate the repair and overhaul activities of FR Hi Temp for their fuel valve actuators. Computer links with the RAF’s main operating bases facilitate collection and distribution to ensure that serviceable units are always available in the right place at the right time. The SCM Division was established by Claverham to revolutionise the relationship between equipment suppliers and the military aircraft operational customer and to reduce aircraft downtime. Under the terms of this smart procurement initiative payments are made to the supplier according to operational availability rather than for repairs following a breakdown. SCM Division Managing Director Alan Fisher believes this new agreement opens the way for further applications of the SCM concept: “The performance of the SCM service in the field has been very impressive and the UK MoD has encouraged us to explore further applications. This arrangement with FR Hi Temp is the first third-party OEM but we hope that it will be the first of many. We are also examining ways of using SCM on new airframes, managing equipment for which there is no record of reliability and, in our new position as part of the global Hamilton Sundstrand organisation, to look beyond the UK. “We have a product that can potentially save air forces millions of pounds in operating costs and now have the platform and support chain to market this on a global scale.”
FHL WINS SELECTION ONTO SAAB MISSILE TEAM
FHL, a division of the Hamilton Sundstrand-owned Claverham Group, has been selected by Saab Bofors Dynamics AB to produce the fin actuation system for the RBS15 Mk3 anti-ship missile. When production orders have been secured, manufacturing will commence at the company’s new cellular guided weapons facility, alongside other programmes such as Brimstone and Marté Mk2S. The RBS15 Mk3 missile has been designed by Saab Bofors Dynamics to combat primarily naval targets. It is a state-of-the-art missile system with a combat range in excess of 200km. A Pre-Planned Product Improvement (P3I) programme will allow the RBS15 Mk3 to be upgraded during its lifetime. This growth potential includes precision land strike capability and subsequently the missile has the capability to be equipped with different target seekers and has sufficient space to carry alternative warheads. The weapon is currently under evaluation by a number of Navies. According to Managing Director Steve Butler, this new agreement is further evidence of FHL’s increasing standing in the guided weapons industry: “We are delighted to have been pre-selected by Saab Bofors Dynamics, following an intensive period of capability reviews and negotiation. Once again we were able to demonstrate that FHL can complement our world-class technical expertise with cost-effective designs and customer focus. “This is the latest in a growing list of important wins and serves as a further proof that FHL is a world-class supplier of control actuation systems for guided weapons.”
FHL SYSTEM PERFORMS WELL IN JSF FLIGHTS
FHL, a division of the Claverham defence equipment group and a member of the Boeing Joint Strike Fighter ‘One Team’, has been praised for the performance of its equipment in flight trials of the Concept Demonstration Aircraft (CDA). FHL supplies a set of unique actuators for the attitude control system of the Boeing X-32B JSF STOVL (Short Take Off and Vertical Landing) demonstrator. The set comprises a total of 17 units (15 actuators and two hydraulic dampers) for the demonstration aircraft plus flight spares, engine test and evaluation hardware. In addition to developing and qualifying all of these units, FHL has also provided support to Rolls-Royce and Boeing for the integration of the FHL actuators into the critical Roll Pitch and Yaw nozzles on the aircraft. FHL’s role on the programme has been praised by Boeing Vice President and JSF General Manager Frank Statkus who commented: “Handling qualities in the hover, largely determined by the performance of the ACS actuators, is one of the most critical areas that we have to demonstrate as part of the CDA programme. The team at FHL have overcome a number of difficult challenges, and made a significant contribution to our achievement of a world class product.” The FHL equipment was used in flight for the first time in mid-April when the aircraft was put into transition mode while flying at a speed of 180 knots. FHL Managing Director Alan Bean believes that the JSF development programme has been an invaluable learning process for the company: “The JSF programme has been a particularly demanding and challenging one but our team of engineers has responded well to supply a standardised Direct Drive Valve (DDV) system which produces state-of-the-art performance over its working range. “Our role in Boeing’s One Team offers the company a significant opportunity to increase the size of our business if this aircraft is selected by the US Government. However, the technologies that we have developed and lessons learned from the qualification programme will provide us with invaluable experience for future projects regardless of the JSF decision."
FHL SELECTED FOR SIKORSKY ROLE
Engineering teams at FHL’s Somerset-based headquarters responded swiftly to Sikorsky’s requirements for updated hydraulic modules with the combination of high reliability and low cost. FHL is currently meeting all development milestones on the programme and is due to commence production deliveries in February 2002. The S-92 is a multinational helicopter based on Sikorsky’s successful BLACKHAWK and SEAHAWK military helicopters and is designed to serve a variety of commercial and military needs including passenger (19-22 capacity), cargo, search and rescue, executive transport use and utility. The S-92 first flew in December 1998 and certification is expected in 2002. Commenting on the new contract FHL Managing Director Alan Bean said: “This win is a clear example of the synergy benefits of our acquisition by Hamilton Sundstrand. FHL’s position within Hamilton Sundstrand significantly improves our global footprint in both our marketing and systems capabilities to meet our customers’ current and future needs.”
FHL ARMS UP TO MEET GLOBAL MISSILE DEMAND
The new cellular manufacturing facilities have been designed to cope with the needs of a burgeoning order book that is set to grow still further as a result of Claverham’s acquisition by Hamilton Sundstrand, a global supplier of aircraft systems. Engineers at FHL’s Somerset plant are currently engaged in producing fin actuation systems for the Brimstone anti-tank missile and the new Marté Mk2S anti-shipping weapon. Development work is also gathering pace on the advanced technology fin actuation system for the new Meteor missile which has been selected by the UK Government for the Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), the primary Eurofighter Typhoon missile system. However, according to FHL Managing Director Alan Bean, the company’s new facility could soon be manufacturing equipment for customers far beyond its traditional European market: “Our capability in supplying cost-effective and innovative solutions to customer needs is well-known in the industry and our new dedicated guided weapons assembly facility can enhance this offering still further. “The acquisition of FHL by Hamilton Sundstrand has significantly increased our global presence in the missile actuation market, and FHL is committed to delivering high-performance, cost-effective solutions to meet the needs of both our current and future customers.”
Claverham Group Limited takes its place among this year’s exhibitors at the Paris Air Show (Hall 2B, Stand L12/2) as the newest European member of a global aerospace family. The company’s acquisition by Hamilton Sundstrand in January this year has elevated the aerospace and defence equipment specialist to the top tier of the industry supply chain and opened up a global marketplace to its innovative actuation products. Claverham Group was formed following the acquisition of Fairey Hydraulics Limited (FHL) from Fairey Group plc in January 1998. The company employs 400 people at its factory near Bristol in south west England. Claverham has now become part of HS Flight Systems and Services, a major new business segment created to expand the flight systems capabilities and aftermarket services offered by the Hamilton Sundstrand organisation. According to Claverham Group Chairman Simon Frost, this integration offers his company entry into previously unavailable markets: “In a consolidating industry, this is a wonderful opportunity for all of us at Claverham to build further upon our recent successes within a strong and truly international company. At the last Paris Air Show Claverham was a new name in the aerospace world, offering innovative solutions to a niche market. Now we are part of global team which can offer total power systems to customers throughout the world.” Claverham is also looking at new applications for its products, as Managing Director for its FHL Division, Alan Bean, explains: “Being part of a larger organisation now gives us the opportunity to look at the applicability of our technology to new areas such as civil aircraft flight controls. We are also playing a leading role in Hamilton Sundstrand’s programme to support the emerging Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) market, which will present unique challenges for systems and flight controls in the future.” Claverham’s aerospace portfolio incorporates the products and services of its FHL Division, which designs and manufactures innovative, high-performance aircraft and missile actuation systems and equipment, and the Support Chain Management (SCM) Division, which provides a new logistics management service which transfers support risk management from the Armed Forces to industry in the spirit of smart procurement. The FHL Division supplies primary flight controls and equipment for a number of aircraft, including the Agusta Bell AB139 helicopter and the Eurofighter, and is a member of the Boeing ‘One Team’ which is currently developing its Joint Strike Fighter design. In the past year, FHL has opened a dedicated guided weapons assembly facility to improve a customer offering that has already seen it selected to supply fin actuation systems for several missile programmes, including Meteor, Marté Mk2S and Brimstone. The SCM Division has continued to expand its unique logistics management activities for aircraft of the UK Armed Forces through the Ministry of Defence, In 1999 it was awarded a 10-year, £60 million contract by the RAF covering flight control actuators on its Tornado fleet and pilot schemes are also in place to cover equipment for Harrier, Jaguar and Lynx aircraft. Complementing its aerospace activities, Claverham Group’s industrial actuation arm, IAD Rail Systems, has recently secured the first contracts to install its unique High Performance Switch System (HPSS) onto the British rail network.
NEW SWITCHING SYSTEM GETS THE GREEN LIGHT
IAD Rail Systems, a division of Somerset-based Claverham Group, has received product acceptance from Railtrack for its unique High Performance Switch System (HPSS). The system has successfully completed a three month pilot installation at Nunhead Junction, part of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link route, and is now approved for the UK rail network. One of the key successes of the trial period was the demonstration of continuous mechanical tamping through the switch and crossing. This is the first time in the UK that this has been possible, thanks to the unique design of the in-bearer HPSS, and will result in improved stability of the track and improved passenger ride comfort. Mick Ledger, Director of Marketing at IAD Rail Systems, commented: “HPSS is an exciting and innovative system which will significantly reduce points failures, which cause delays to rail traffic. We have developed an integrated solution, which incorporates some of the most advanced actuation, locking and detection technologies available. The result is a highly reliable, robust, low-maintenance, low through-life cost switch and crossing system – something the rail industry has been crying out for.” Using RAMS (reliability, availability, maintainability and safety) as the fundamental design driver, HPSS underwent extensive trials and rigorous testing during its seven-year development programme. The system was first trialled in 1998 on the West Coast Main Line, operating 28,000 times with 70,000 trains passing over it in 2 years. The pilot installation at Nunhead Junction has already experienced over 35,000 train movements and 12,500 switch operations with no failures. IAD Rail Systems has successfully led a team comprising Balfour Beatty and ERA Technology in developing and gaining safety acceptance for the HPSS. Mick Ledger added: “We have worked with renowned railway industry experts and applied the best aspects of our aerospace heritage, namely the quality and rigour of development, analysis and test, to produce a safe, cost-effective system.” IAD Rail Systems are now working with Railtrack to identify the most expedient way of introducing the new system into the UK network in order to reduce points failure-related train delays. Schemes particularly under consideration include the Channel Tunnel Route, West Coast Route Modernisation and the East Coast Main Line.
CLAVERHAM GROUP LIMITED TO BE ACQUIRED BY HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND
Claverham Group Limited today announced an agreement to be acquired by Hamilton Sundstrand a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation. Claverham Group Limited employs 400 people and is based in Bristol. The Group supplies advanced actuation systems and equipment support management services to the European aerospace and defence industry. The transaction, for an undisclosed sum, will be structured as a stock purchase and the deal is expected to be completed in January, subject to international government and regulatory agency approvals. Claverham Chief Executive, Simon Frost, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us at Claverham to build further upon our recent growth, but now as a key operation within a large and truly international company. "There are excellent opportunities through this deal for our activities at Claverham to continue to develop. The deal enables our products to gain even better access to customers with whom Hamilton Sundstrand has a strong international relationship, and for us to add a number of Hamilton Sundstrand products to our own UK based capabilities," he continued. Claverham Group Limited was formed in January 1998 following the acquisition of Fairey Hydraulics Ltd. in a management buy-out, partially financed through Candover* Investments plc. The Group’s sales in 1999 were £41.6 million. The acquisition of Claverham will add aircraft primary flight control actuation capability to Hamilton Sundstrand’s existing secondary flight control actuation business. "Our combined expertise will enable Hamilton Sundstrand to provide a more complete actuation package for customers as we expand our capabilities to provide more systems-oriented solutions," said Hamilton Sundstrand President Ron McKenna. "This purchase is very much in line with our aerospace power company business strategy." This acquisition will expand Hamilton Sundstrand’s presence in Europe, specifically in military actuation programs, as well as open U.S. markets for Claverham products. In addition to aircraft primary flight controls, Claverham products are used in missile actuation, an area where Hamilton Sundstrand has previously not competed. Claverham also provides new technology actuation equipment for railway switch and crossing applications, and includes a logistic management division. Hamilton Sundstrand, which employs approximately 17,000 people worldwide, is a leading supplier of high-technology aerospace components and systems. The company already employs more than 2,600 people in its European operations. Its Microtecnica operation in Italy is a supplier to the European military aircraft secondary actuation and environmental controls market, and Ratier-Figeac in France provides mechanical actuation components and other products, including propellers. Nord-Micro in Germany is a supplier to the commercial and military aerospace markets; HS Marston in Wolverhampton, U.K, manufactures heat transfer and fluids management products for a wide range of aerospace customers. HS-Nauka in Moscow, Russia, makes heat exchangers for aircraft environmental control systems. Hamilton Sundstrand, The Aerospace Power Companyä , is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation (NYSE: UTX), and is headquartered in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. Among the world's largest suppliers of technologically advanced aerospace and industrial products, the company designs, manufactures and services aerospace systems and provides integrated systems solutions for commercial, regional, corporate and military aircraft, and is a major supplier for global space programs.
* Candover means Candover Investments plc and/or one or more of its subsidiaries, including Candover Partners as General Partner of the Candover 1997 Fund
NEW RAIL SYSTEMS OPERATION LAUNCHED
Claverham, the Somerset-based aerospace and defence group, has launched IAD Rail Systems, a specialist operation to produce and market its innovative rail switch system which aims to significantly reduce delays on Britain’s rail network. The Rail Systems business has been established separately from Claverham’s main site at a new self-contained unit in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset. The design and manufacturing base includes offices, computer aided design facilities, assembly shops and test rigs and has the capacity to produce up to 400 High Performance Switch Systems (HPSS) per year. Switch and crossing systems are currently a significant cause of rail traffic delays because of failures of their component parts. IAD Rail Systems has led a team comprising Balfour Beatty and ERA Technology to develop a new High Performance Switch System to minimise these failures and to operate without the need for frequent maintenance. Commenting on the decision to create a specialist rail operation, Claverham Group Chief Executive Simon Frost said: "This move has been brought about by an expansion in our defence and aerospace businesses at the main Claverham site and by the recognition of a need to allocate specialist resources to our rail operation." IAD Rail Systems Managing Director Trevor Brown said: "By establishing this new facility Claverham has demonstrated its commitment to the rail industry. We have already secured our first contracts to supply High Performance Switch Systems for Britain’s rail network and we are now well equipped to expand production to meet the anticipated demand for this product." The new equipment has now gained its product safety acceptance certification from Railtrack and will be installed into its first production site at Nunhead Junction in the Southern Zone in late October this year. The HPSS will form the focal point of IAD Rail Systems’ stand at this year’s Railtex 2000 exhibition (21 – 23 November, NEC Birmingham).
NEW SWITCH SYSTEM POINTS THE WAY
IAD Rail Systems, a division of the Somerset-based aerospace and defence company, Claverham Group, has developed the High Performance Switch System (HPSS) that could significantly reduce delays on Britain’s rail network. Switch and crossing systems are currently a significant cause of rail traffic delays because of failures of their component parts. IAD Rail Systems’ HPSS has been designed to significantly reduce these failures and to operate without the need for frequent maintenance. IAD Rail Systems has successfully led a team comprising Balfour Beatty and ERA Technology to gain product acceptance so that this important new development can be introduced into the UK rail network. The new system has undergone extensive trials and testing during its seven year development. The equipment has now gained its product safety acceptance certification from Railtrack and will be installed in its first production site at Nunhead Junction in the Southern Zone in late October this year. This very busy junction is on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link route and will subject the system to over 350 train movements per day. This mixed traffic includes Eurostars, local Networkers and heavy freight traffic for the Channel Tunnel. The real time performance of the HPSS will be monitored by the project. Commenting on the new HPSS, IAD Rail Systems’ Director of Marketing, Mick Ledger, said: "We have taken a systematic approach to the whole development of the HPSS with RAMS (reliability, availability, maintainability and safety) as fundamental design drivers. We have worked with renowned railway industry experts and applied the best aspects of our aerospace heritage, namely the quality and rigour of development, analysis and test, to produce a safe, cost effective system. "The long life and low maintenance requirements of the product mean that fewer railway workers will be exposed to danger on the track. The high reliability and availability of our in-bearer system, coupled with the ability to through tamp the whole turnout will inevitably reduce passenger delays and have a very positive effect on overall ride comfort." IAD Rail Systems is confident that a successful introduction at Nunhead will result in adoption of the HPSS throughout the existing UK rail network. This would then result in a substantial reduction in points failure-related train delays nationally. The HPSS will form the focal point of IAD Rail Systems’ stand at this year’s Railtex 2000 exhibition (21 – 23 November, NEC Birmingham).
CLAVERHAM FIGURES CONTINUE TO CLIMB
Claverham, the Somerset-based aerospace and defence equipment specialist, today announced record full-year financial results for 1999 which underlined the company’s rapid take-off. Turnover rose by 12.1% to £41.6 million, while profit before interest and tax rose by 10.4% to £8.5 million. Claverham now has an order backlog worth £114.6 million. Commenting on the results, Claverham’s Chief Executive Simon Frost said: "I am delighted that 1999 was another year of growth in all areas of our business. We have been able to build a sustainable position within the consolidating aerospace and defence industry, thanks to our quest for continuous improvements in business innovation, operational processes and product competitiveness." Over the past year Claverham’s FHL Division has won contracts to supply actuation systems for a number of new projects, including the Agusta Bell AB139 helicopter, and has become a member of the Boeing One Team currently developing their Joint Strike Fighter design. The SCM Division has continued to expand its unique logistic management activities for aircraft of the UK Armed Forces through the Ministry of Defence, while the Industrial Division is on schedule to introduce its new Rail High Performance Switch System product to the market. The impressive results follow hard on the heels of the Government’s decision to order the new Meteor missile for which the FHL Division will supply an advanced technology fin actuation system. The decision underpins current activity and secures long-term employment at the company’s North Somerset headquarters.
METEOR RIGHT DECISION FOR CLAVERHAM
Claverham, the Somerset-based aerospace and defence equipment specialist, is today celebrating the Government’s decision to order a new European missile for which it will supply advanced technology systems. The new order will underpin current activity and secure long-term employment at Claverham. The company’s FHL Division will design, develop and manufacture the fin actuation system for Meteor, a beyond visual range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) to be produced by a European consortium led by Matra BAe Dynamics (MBD). The missile will arm Eurofighter and the next generation of European fighter aircraft and the Government’s decision increases the likelihood of further orders and enhances export opportunities. The contract confirms Claverham’s position as a major player in the supply of actuation systems for guided weapons and follows on from previous awards which include the Spearfish torpedo and the Brimstone missile projects. Claverham successfully demonstrated its world-class competitiveness and innovative design solutions during the competitive tender process which resulted in selection onto MBD’s Meteor team. Claverham Chief Executive Simon Frost believes that the MoD’s decision is a most important vote of confidence for the European defence industry which will bring valuable work to the West Country: "By selecting Meteor the Government has provided the RAF with the best weapon and given a signal that Europe can compete effectively for defence contracts throughout the world. The decision also reinforces our international position as a highly competitive supplier of fin actuation systems for guided weapons. Alan Bean, Managing Director of Claverham’s FHL Division added: "FHL is one of the first tier suppliers for whom the selection of Meteor is an important step in the underpinning of vital defence equipment technology. The project has significant export potential and we will now be starting the development programme leading to the manufacturing phase which will be carried out at our Somerset base for many years to come."
MANAGEMENT TEAM LEAD £55M FAIREY HYDRAULICS BUYOUT
Fairey Hydraulics Limited, the aerospace and defence engineering business based at Claverham, near Bristol, has been purchased from Fairey Group plc through an institutional management buyout by Candover Investments plc in conjunction with the directors of Fairey Hydraulics Limited. The new company is registered as FH Limited, but will trade under the name FHL, an abbreviation already used by many associated with the existing business. FHL is the first subsidiary of a new holding company, Claverham Limited. FHL designs and manufactures actuation systems and associated equipment mainly for the aerospace, defence and specialised industrial markets, as well as providing customer support for all of its products. Our main UK customers are major prime contractors such as British Aerospace, GEC Marconi and GKN Westland. FHL also supports a wide range of international projects ranging from the Eurofighter programme and other military aerospace applications such as helicopters and guided weapons, to industrial projects such as sub-sea wellhead systems. The company employs 360 people on a 10 acre site at Claverham. The buyout team, led by Chief Executive Simon Frost, plans to build on the strong business position of FHL and to turn the Claverham name into a substantial operation. Turnover for Fairey Hydraulics Limited in 1997 was £29.5 million. Simon Frost, commenting on the deal, said: "FHL has exceptional skills in the areas of engineering and aerospace, offering good prospects for growth. We also have a strong position in some exciting new sectors, which combined with Candover's support gives us confidence that we will achieve considerable growth for the business. The buyout puts us in an excellent financial position, with the launch of a number of new products planned, supported by our continuing research and development programme." Candover, a leading buyout specialist, led the £51 million buyout of Fairey Group from Pearson plc in 1986. The Fairey Group was floated in 1988 and has subsequently diversified its business to include electronics in addition to specialist engineering products. The buyout of Fairey Hydraulics is the first investment to be made by Candover's £850 million 1997 Fund. Martin Calderbank of Candover added: "FHL has a strong management team who have successfully diversified the business, achieving substantial sales growth in alternative military projects as well as industrial applications. The order book is strong and the prospects for the company look good. We are looking forward to seeing the business grow and developing to become as successful as their former parent."
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