Constellium awarded Air and Space Academy medal for developing Airware

Amsterdam, the Netherlands – Three Constellium N.V. researchers were awarded the Medal of the Academy by the European Air and Space Academy (AAE) for their achievement in developing Airware aluminum solutions. The AAE aims to encourage the development of high-quality scientific, technical, cultural, and human actions, as well as to promote knowledge in these areas, acting as a focal point for activities in France and Europe. The Medal of the Academy recognizes individuals who significantly contribute to progress in the aerospace industry.

Timothy Warner, Knowledge Director and Metallurgy Group Manager, Alireza Arbab, Project Manager, and Bruno Chenal, Strategic Innovation Director, received the medal at the annual Solemn Session held by the AAE on Nov. 25, 2016 in Toulouse, France. 

"This Medal is a testimony to Constellium's R&D commitment to advance the potential of aluminum and to fulfill our aerospace customers' needs and innovative ambitions," said Bruno Chenal, Constellium's Strategic Innovation Director. "We are particularly proud that Airware is now flying on the most prestigious aircraft and space programs, such as the Airbus A350 XWB, Bombardier's CSeries, the SpaceX Falcon Launcher, and Lockheed Martin's Orion Capsule."

Airware is a major component in the advanced materials portfolio of the A350 XWB manufactured by Airbus. At the same AAE session, Fabrice Brégier, President and CEO of Airbus, received the Academy's Grand Award for his role in the A350 XWB program.

Airware is the result of decades of R&D to support the most innovative aerospace programs. Constellium's Airware was launched in 2010 as a comprehensive offer of high-performance aluminum-lithium alloys, suited to feature in all parts of the primary aerostructure. Airware's lower alloy density and improved material properties allow an optimization of structural designs, which leads to an overall weight reduction and a drop in CO₂ emissions. Airware offers higher durability due to its greater resistance to fatigue and corrosion, which enable airlines to target extended intervals of heavy maintenance. Airware is endlessly recyclable without any loss of properties. The technology contributes to the development of a sustainable aerospace industry.

Supporting the industry's endeavors to reduce its carbon footprint, Constellium continues to develop advanced Airware alloy solutions and manufacturing technologies by working together with R&D teams of the world's major aerospace manufacturers.

Source: Constellium