Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) has used a combined polymer and service solution from Victrex to develop efficient and durable aircraft floor brackets for its new ARJ21 regional jet.

Featuring polyaryletherketone (PAEK), the Victrex solution is designed to provide simulation analysis, design optimisation tools and on-site processing support.

Compared to conventional aluminium used in the manufacturing of aircraft, the Victrex PAEK polymers reduces weight and allows easier production process.

Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China brackets team leader Dr Bai Jie said: “Today, weight reduction resulting in increased fuel efficiency, is absolutely essential and a critical success factor.

“This is common knowledge within the aerospace industry, but the full potential and processing efficiency of high-performing polymers are not.

“Weight reduction resulting in increased fuel efficiency, is absolutely essential and a critical success factor."

“As a consequence, we have received support from Victrex. During the design process for example, their technical team delivered extensive and valuable support.”

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Victrex said that each of the brackets built with its polymer solution and used on ARJ21 has a loading capacity of up to 6,000N.

Meeting the FAR 25.853 requirements for flame, smoke and toxicity, all the brackets have a working temperature range between -55°C and 135°C.

They are 30% lighter than the corresponding aluminium bracket and can be replaced for the same part manufactured in metal.

The new floor brackets also have a life span of 30 years.

Image: Floor brackets made from Victrex PAEK polymers. Photo: courtesy of Victrex.