Doncasters Deepens TEI Partnership
20 June 2005
The Doncasters Group Ltd, a leading global manufacturer of precision components and assemblies for the aerospace industry, has extended its strategic partnership with Tusas Engine Industries (TEI) in Turkey to supply parts for the TP400 – the most powerful western turboprops ever built.
Doncasters has secured an additional contract worth in the region of £1 million over the lifetime of the engine programme to supply forged rolled rings made from nickel-based and titanium alloys for the TP400 engine.
In addition to forgings, Doncasters already manufactures centrispun cast titanium rings of vanes for the Front Bearing Housing of the TP400. The centrispinning method at Doncasters reduces machining and fabrication costs as each ring is created during one process. By using titanium, the rings benefit from added strength and reduced weight compared to more traditional materials.
With a maximum output in excess of 11,000 shp (8,202 kW) of power, the eight-blade TP400 will be the most powerful turboprop ever attempted in the West.
Eric Lewis, CEO of Doncasters, commented: “This new contract highlights how our partnership approach with TEI to our involvement for the life of the programme.”
The TP400 engine will be developed and manufactured by EuroProp International, a European consortium consisting of Rolls-Royce, Snecma Moteurs, MTU Aero Engines and Industria de Turbopropulsors (ITP) to power the Airbus Military A400M aircraft. First flight for the A400M is scheduled for 2007, with entry into service in 2008.
The A400M programme represents a collaboration involving the Governments and industry of seven European partners – Turkey (10 aircraft), UK (25 aircraft), Germany (60 aircraft), France (50 aircraft), Spain (27 aircraft), and Belgium (8 aircraft, including one on behalf of Luxembourg).
