Programme
Operational availability
NLR supports Defence, the aviation industry, MRO and maintenance companies and airlines in the development and application of innovative, sustainable solutions for maintenance, inspection and repair.
In this way, NLR wants to contribute to the optimisation of the material availability and the cost effective use of aircraft, helicopters, drones, wind turbines and other complex systems. Through this, we help to improve the operational effectiveness of the armed forces and the competitive position of businesses.
“ Smart maintenance improves the availability of aircraft”
Programme leader John Dominicus on the Operational availability knowledge programme
We are developing techniques for predicting and determining maintenance needs and techniques for sustainable repairs. Other areas of focus include organisational processes and the training of maintenance personnel. NLR wants to become the centre of expertise in aircraft maintenance and fleet replacement, and in sustainable materials and coatings in aircraft maintenance.
Some projects
Predictive maintenance for very effective asset management
The PrimaVera project (Predictive Maintenance for Very Effective Asset Management) aims to develop predictive maintenance for very effective asset management. To achieve this, a demonstrator framework has been set up to execute three use-cases. This framework runs on a Linux server at the University of Twente and consists of various components. Algorithms have been developed and implemented in the framework to support predictive maintenance. To validate the framework, impact tests have been conducted on aluminum flat panels and thermoplastic composite flat panels with increasing impact energy up to damage. Additionally, similar impact tests have been performed on a more complex 3-reinforced thermoplastic panel to test a broader range of material properties.
Digital Twinning of military platforms
The DMTP project aimed to identify potential applications and benefits of Digital Twinning in the maintenance of military platforms. A study was conducted to determine which Digital Twinning concepts and techniques hold promise for the maintenance of military platforms (on land, sea, and air). This involved a literature review, including an examination of “smart hangar” technology.
Maintenance of green propulsion systems
A literature review was conducted to investigate the effect of hydrogen on the static strength and fatigue properties of metal alloys used in the aerospace industry. Subsequently, a test plan was developed to specifically determine the effect of hydrogen on tensile strength and fatigue crack growth rate in aluminium 7075 and a TiAl alloy. The required material was manufactured into test specimens to perform tests.
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Research infrastructure
Areas of expertise
