.webp)
What does it take to safely stop an aircraft in its tracks? While traditional steel brakes have been instrumental in slowing down the aircraft during landing, cutting-edge, lightweight, and durable carbon brakes have brought a paradigm shift in the aviation industry. It is worth noting that aircraft carbon brake discs have less downtime with a faster cooling rate vis-à-vis steel brakes. Not to mention, weight saving translates into a lightweight feature, contributing to reduced fuel consumption. Operational flexibility has become trendier with the adoption of carbon brakes, enabling the aircraft to carry more cargo, fuel, and people per mission. According to Business Research Insights, the market for aircraft carbon brake disc could witness 16.53% CAGR from 2022 to 2027.
Aircraft carbon brake disc has gradually become an ideal alternative to steel brakes. Therefore, developments in manufacturing and engineering have become a catalyst in retrofitting the brakes into aircraft to reduce fuel costs.
At a time when the demand for commercial aircraft has been at its peak, prominent companies could boost their strategies. The industry dynamics emphasize organic and inorganic strategies to tap into markets. Some of the most notable players in the market are highlighted below:
1. Honeywell
Founded in 1906, Honeywell International is headquartered in North Carolina, U.S. The American company mainly operates in the aerospace, Performance Materials and Technologies (PMT), building technologies, and Safety and Productivity Solutions (SPS). Honeywell has manufacturing and engineering centers globally in the U.S. and Canada, with repair and overhaul shops. The company has pioneered the manufacture and design of aircraft wheels and braking systems for defense and commercial aircraft.
2. Safran
Safran is a French company headquartered in Paris and was established in 2005. The company strives to contribute to a more sustainable and safer world. Safran has a global presence, with 79,000 employees. It has upped investment in developing the lightest carbon brakes, with weight savings of 320 kg per set. Safran Landing Systems manufactures carbon brakes for mainline commercial jets.
3. Mersen
Mersen is a France-based company founded in 1891 and is based in 35 countries globally. The company has developed aircraft carbon brake disc with a 3D carbon fiber orientation. The French company has equipped braking systems on the Airbus line. The company designs innovative solutions to address customers' specific needs to leverage them to boost their manufacturing process.
4. Meggitt
Founded in 1947, Meggitt is headquartered in the U.K. The England-based company deals in defense and aerospace and has more than 9,000 employees globally. The company claims that 73,000 aircraft depend upon its critical components while over 80% of military fighter programs have its wheel and brake systems.
5. Rubin Aviation Corporation JSC
Russia-based Rubin Aviation Corporation JSC was established in 1946. The company has been developing, designing, distributing, and manufacturing units and systems for the Russian aircraft industry. It is claimed that every Russian aircraft is equipped with an average of 20 items from Rubin. The company provides effective technical solutions globally.
6. SGL Carbon
SGL Carbon is a technology-based company with over 31 high-performing sites in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company was founded in 1992 and it claims to have more than 4,700 employees. It reportedly has customers in over 80 countries. The company deals in carbon-based materials and provides tailor-made solutions. Its core business units are carbon fibers, graphite solutions, composite solutions, and process technology.
7. Baimtec Material
The China-based Baimtec Material Co. Ltd. was established in 2000. The company specializes in drawing, rolling, and extruding nonferrous metals other than copper and aluminum. The Chinese Academy of Sciences and National Ministry of Science and Technology apparently designated the company as a prominent technology enterprise. The company prioritizes developing, researching, manufacturing, and selling high and new technology products based on aeronautical new materials, new technology, and new processes.
Underappreciated, Yet Pivotal Function
Aircraft carbon brake disc is gradually gaining traction as a cost-effective solution with increased stopping performance and durability. Aircraft carbon brake disc systems have become the next big thing and provide opportunities and challenges to stakeholders. There is no denying that the need for reduced maintenance costs and lower fuel will encourage companies to enhance weight saving with improved reliability and reduced costs.