International. Airlines and operators can now optimize paint maintenance programs for all their fleets thanks to a digital management system developed by AkzoNobel's Aerospace Coatings.
Known as Aerofleet Coatings Management, the system uses data collected over several years to help ensure aircraft are only repainted when needed, not just according to a fixed schedule.
"Airplanes are often repainted while the coating still has life," explained Patrick Bourguignon, director of AkzoNobel's Specialty and Automotive Coatings business.
"Using our service will help reduce costs, while increasing aircraft availability for up to a year," he said.
Currently, aircraft tend to be taken out of service for maintenance every six or seven years, without knowing for sure if they need to be repainted.
Aerofleet addresses this problem by capturing data from manual and drone-operated inspections and creating a database of every aircraft in a fleet.
Individual stories include details of the coatings used (such as single-stage coatings or base coat/clear layer), as well as flight path data, as well as weather conditions that may affect the longevity of the applied coating.
"By analyzing this information and mapping it over several years, it becomes easier and more accurate to determine when an aircraft should be repainted, rather than simply using time or flight hours," said Tami Swearingin, head of AkzoNobel's Aerospace and Film Coatings segment.
"Over time, the frequency with which aircraft need to be repainted will decrease, which is significantly better for an airline's bottom line. It also means less waste, so it will also be better for the planet," Swearingin added.
Efficiency vs. manual application
Ideal for fleets of more than 100 aircraft, the inspection service is provided by experts from AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings, using a digital application. The app stores all collected information such as dry film thickness, color variation, gloss, and overall appearance. The data is then fed back into a database, which tracks fleet performance over time.
Manual inspections can be further enhanced by automated inspections conducted by drones. The drones fly on a fixed grid over the surface of the plane, take up to 1000 high-definition photos and the built-in software analyzes the images to detect any problems or wear of the coatings. This standardizes inspection and is less subjective.
It's also faster and deeper than a manual inspection; An automated drone can scan an entire narrow-body aircraft in less than an hour. Whether you record data digitally manually or using a drone, the goal is to have a plane on the ground only when needed.
Aerofleet Coatings Management is launched as part of a range of enhanced support and training services available through AkzoNobel Aerospace Business Solutions, a new entity that brings further structure to many of the services already provided by the company's technical support teams.
