Goodrich Corporation has been selected to provide the air data system, ice detector, windshield ice protection controller, and the fuel quantity gauging and control system for the new Embraer KC-390 military transport aircraft.
Initial hardware deliveries are expected to begin in 2013. The systems will be provided by Goodrich’s Sensors and Integrated Systems teams in Minnesota and Vermont.
The air data system includes multi-function SmartProbeâ„¢ products and total air temperature sensors. The advanced SmartProbe air data system provides all critical air data parameters to the aircraft’s flight control system, pilot displays and other air data dependent systems. SmartProbe air data sensing technology integrates multi-function sensing probes, pressure sensors and air data computer processing. Elimination of pneumatic lines reduces system cost, weight and complexity. Full integration improves system reliability, maintainability and performance.
The ice detectors advise flight crews of ice build-up for activation of the aircraft’s ice protection system. The internally-mounted windshield ice protection controllers ensure the windshield and cockpit windows remain free of condensation and ice, and help conserve power by regulating and distributing only the level of power required for the existing conditions.
The fuel quantity gauging and control system provides critical data on the fuel quantity on-board the aircraft. The system is optimized for flight deck control of both on-ground and in-flight fueling and defueling. Built-in test and fault detection capabilities are integrated into the system.
“Goodrich continues to expand its partnership with Embraer by providing advanced, low risk solutions for the new aircraft like the KC-390 transport,” said Chris Cojocar, business development director, Goodrich Sensors and Integrated Systems. “Our investment in new technology and facilities, such as advanced icing wind tunnels make us uniquely qualified to design, test and qualify to Embraer’s operational and performance objectives.”
Goodrich previously had been selected to design and manufacture state of the art electro-hydrostatic actuators, electro-backup hydrostatic actuators, actuator electronics and electrical controls for the fully integrated, fly-by-wire, primary flight control system of the aircraft.
The KC-390 aircraft will be capable of operating from short and semi-prepared runways in challenging environments worldwide. In addition to troop and cargo transportation, its mission capability also includes in-flight refueling, search and rescue and medical evacuation.
