CTRM delivers Airbus helicopter H130 fenestron

Adding to its product portfolios of composite Wing and Nacelle, Composites Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd (CTRM), a member company of the DRB-HICOM Group, marks another major milestone with the production and delivery of MSN 01 and MSN 02 of Airbus Helicopter H130 Fenestron, for its customer Airbus Helicopter in Marignane, France.

The Fenestron was the latest composite aerostructure program at CTRM which involve a total of 15 special processes. The package consists of 3 split assemblies, Fenestron, Fin Ventral and Fairing. The Fenestron itself is made up of eight parts, of carbon and hybrid material. The complexity of the lay-up process due to its shape coupled with its unique mould technology has exposed CTRM to two new processes to its current capabilities, the insert as well as structural bonding and riveting.

The project kicked off in May 2012 when the Malaysian government purchased 12 units of EC725 SAR/Utility helicopter from Airbus Helicopter. CTRM was awarded with the offset program to produce the Fenestron for a contract duration until 2021 or 320 sets in total delivery.