KC-390 tanker

Pall Corporation has inked a strategic agreement with Embraer Defense & Security for the supply of hydraulic filters for the Brazilian Air Force’s (FAB) KC-390 tanker aircraft development programme.

Under the agreement, the company will manufacture and deliver unspecified units of hydraulic filter manifolds and assemblies for KC-390 aircraft during the next 30 years.

Pall Aeropower president Mark Morris said the company is looking to build on the current KC-390 strategic alliance and also collaborate with Embraer on future aircraft applications.

Developed from the latest filtration technology in accordance with Embraer’s specifications, the filter manifolds and assemblies will boost the KC-390’s reliability through purification of pressurised hydraulic fluids that power its flight control systems, cargo door and landing gears.

Combining a number of separate filtration components into a single unit, the filter manifold cost-efficiently purifies contaminants that are introduced into hydraulic system fluids from the environment, during manufacturing and routine maintenance, as well as from component wear.

"The filter manifolds and assemblies will boost the KC-390’s reliability through purification of pressurised hydraulic fluids."

These contaminants, if not removed, will recirculate, leading to corrosion, fluid degradation, reduced system efficiency and ultimately failure of the associated components.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Embraer is currently manufacturing 28 KC-390s as part of a $1.3bn contract received in April 2009, to help replace the FAB’s existing fleet of 22 Lockheed Martin-built C-130E/Hs and KC-130 aircraft.

The initial test flight of the KC-390 aircraft is expected to take place in 2014, followed by entry into operational service in 2016.

Powered by two IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines, the KC-390 is a medium-lift aircraft designed to conduct troop and cargo transport in Antarctic and Amazon regions, apart from aerial delivery, in-flight refuelling, search and rescue (SAR) and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations.

Initial deliveries under the contract are expected to take place by the end of 2013.


Image: Depiction of the Brazilian Air Force’s KC-390 tanker aircraft. Photo courtesy of Business Wire.

Defence Technology