UTC Aerospace Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp., announced today that it has developed a non-chromate landing gear corrosion protection primer incorporating its patented EcoSky pigment. The pigment and primer are more environmentally friendly and compliant with the European Union's REACh regulations. The company's new chromate-free primer is a first for use on steel parts for commercial airplanes and is being developed in concert with United Technologies Research Center (UTRC).

The new primer performed as well as or better than existing chromate primers in laboratory testing and is currently in field evaluation with Porter Airlines. Following the 16-month inspection, the Porter Airlines landing gear are operating normally and showing no signs of coating deterioration or corrosion. UTC Aerospace Systems is continuing to monitor the primer's performance in field evaluation with Porter Airlines and assess next steps for commercialization.

In addition to the non-chromate primer, UTC Aerospace Systems is also implementing Zinc Nickel plating for steel components as a drop-in replacement for Cadmium and Titanium Cadmium in support of the REACh sunset dates. Its first application will be on the A350-1000 main landing gear.

"As aircraft manufacturers, OEMs and MROs work to comply with the EU's REACh regulations, we're happy to work with our customers on these innovative new solutions to help them succeed in achieving their goals," said Landing Systems President Jim Wharton.

"This is part of UTRC's mission—to quickly transition world-class science and technology to our businesses enabling industry-unique solutions for our customers," said Steve Tongue, Senior Director, UTC Aerospace Systems Program Office, UTRC. "There are significant technology hurdles to overcome within the aerospace industry as we work to meet these vital REACh requirements. We still have a long way to go, but are encouraged by the recent advances we've made."