Importance of RGD resistance

Rapid Gas Decompression is a critical consideration for sealing materials used in applications where exposure to high-pressure gaseous environments is prevalent. RGD can lead to material failure if seals are not designed to withstand sudden changes in pressure, which can occur during operational scenarios or system failures.

Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD) resistance is essential for elastomers used in high-pressure gas applications across various industries, including Oil & Gas, Chemical Processing, Automotive, and Renewable Energy.  RGD can happen during sudden drops in pressure, putting significant stress on sealing materials, which can lead to leaks and safety risks. In the oil and gas sector, for example, preventing leaks in downhole or surface equipment is crucial to protect the environment, while in aerospace, maintaining system integrity is vital for safety. Elastomers designed to resist RGD help ensure reliable sealing and compliance with safety regulations, providing peace of mind for operators and users alike.

As the world shifts towards cleaner energy sources, the importance of RGD-resistant materials grows, particularly with the increasing adoption of hydrogen in power generation and transportation applications, such as fuel cell vehicles. These materials are key to ensuring safety and durability in gas compression, storage, dispensing, and on-board fueling systems. By prioritizing RGD resistance, companies not only enhance the reliability of their products but also contribute to a more sustainable future. This commitment to safety and performance is vital as industries navigate the challenges of modern gas handling and strive to meet the demands of a changing energy landscape.

Typical applications requiring RGD resistance

Valves: Ensuring reliable sealing in high-pressure systems.

Pressure relief devices: Maintaining safety and integrity during pressure fluctuations.

Instrumentation equipment: Providing accurate and safe operation in critical measurement applications.

Manifolds: Facilitating safe gas distribution in complex systems.

Storage tanks: Guarantee seal longevity in rapid release of pressure. 

And many more: Applications across various industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, and renewable energy.

Testing results

The following Parker compounds have completed industry standard RGD testing per ISO23936-2:

All tested compounds passed with excellent results, confirming their suitability for applications involving exposure to rapid decompression scenarios. This achievement underscores Parker’s commitment to providing high-quality sealing solutions that meet the stringent demands of modern industries.

Conclusion

Parker’s successful RGD testing results for our VG109, VX365, KA183, and E0962 compounds in 100% Hydrogen and 100% Carbon Dioxide environments highlight the dedication to innovation and safety for sealing technologies. These compounds are engineered to excel in demanding conditions, ensuring operational integrity and reliability in critical high pressure gaseous applications.

For further information on Parker’s sealing solutions and RGD testing, please contact your local Parker representative or visit Parker Hannifin’s website.

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The ongoing evolution of hydrogen fuel systems for vehicles has necessitated robust standards to ensure reliability, and performance. Among the most critical of these standards is CSA/ANSI HGV 3.1:22, which outlines requirements for compressed hydrogen gas fuel system components in North America. Globally, ISO 19887:2024 is emerging as a de facto standard, borrowing heavily from HGV 3.1 while introducing its own specific parameters. For design engineers, understanding the differences between these standards is essential for designing solutions that meet diverse market requirements.

At Parker, our approach is shaped by decades of experience in compressed natural gas (CNG) systems, where we’ve cultivated a pragmatic, customer-centric methodology. This has taught us that simply meeting standards is not enough. To lead in the hydrogen market, we must go beyond compliance to anticipate real-world challenges, address customer concerns, and balance innovation with commercial viability.

Key differences between HGV 3.1 and ISO standards

HGV 3.1, revised as recently as 2022, sets validation testing benchmarks for a range of components, including check valves, manual and automatic valves, pressure regulators, hoses and fittings. ISO 19887 applies to a broader global market. Its stricter requirements in certain areas, such as permeation limits for hoses and material compatibility, challenge engineers to adopt innovative solutions. For example, while HGV 3.1 allows a hose permeation rate of up to 500 cc per meter per hour, ISO 19887 caps it at 20 cc, making material selection and design optimization critical.

For valves, ISO 19887 specifies 125% pressure at ambient temperature, including a filling cycle section, whereas HGV 3.1 mentions nominal working pressure without referencing a filling cycle. ISO also allows manufacturers to define lower limit voltage for valves to prevent unexpected activation due to leakage current, a provision absent in HGV 3.1. Both standards allow manufacturers to determine specifications like minimum operating temperature and maximum pressures. The key advantage of ISO 19887 lies in its status as an international standard, potentially offering broader acceptance compared to HGV 3.1.

Design engineers must recognize that decisions made for one standard may not automatically comply with the other. For instance, hoses using PTFE liners may struggle to meet ISO’s stringent permeation criteria. This illustrates the importance of aligning design decisions with target markets and their associated regulations.

Parker’s pragmatic approach: lessons from CNG

Our specialization in CNG systems serves as a valuable foundation for hydrogen fuel system development. With CNG, we faced similar challenges: sealing tiny, high-pressure molecules, ensuring durability under fluctuating temperatures and addressing risks around flammable gases.

Hydrogen, however, raises the bar. The molecule’s small size increases leakage risks, while its reactivity can weaken certain metals over time. Recognizing these unique challenges, we prioritize the following:

Exceeding standards

While HGV 3.1 and ISO 19887 provide a baseline, some of our products require additional validation for extreme applications, including extreme cold (-60°C) and rapid fueling/defueling cycles. For instance, our Seal-Lok fittings have been rigorously tested to exceed HGV 3.1’s requirements, ensuring reliability even in harsh environments.

Material innovation

Through collaboration across our business units, we’re developing advanced elastomers and thermoplastics tailored for hydrogen applications. These materials address concerns like rapid gas decompression and long-term exposure to high-pressure hydrogen.

Customer collaboration

By involving customers in the development process, we ensure our solutions address specific application needs without unnecessary overengineering. This approach accelerates time to launch and reduces iterations while building trust with end-users.

Balancing innovation and commercial viability

Hydrogen’s potential to decarbonize transportation is undeniable, but its path to widespread adoption faces hurdles, from infrastructure challenges to consumer perception. Risk reduction is a particularly significant concern, with fears around leakage and flammability affecting market acceptance.

Parker’s strategy emphasizes balancing cutting-edge innovation with practical, market-ready solutions. By leveraging our CNG experience, we’re developing hydrogen components that are not only reliable but also scalable for high-volume production. For example, our hydrogen dispensing hoses, already proven in commercial applications, reflect our commitment to delivering solutions that meet both current and future demands.

Preparing for the future

As hydrogen standards continue to evolve, Parker remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. By aligning our testing methods with ISO’s global perspective while exceeding HGV 3.1’s benchmarks, we’re positioning ourselves as a trusted partner for hydrogen system designers worldwide.

For engineers working in this emerging space, the following is clear: understand the standards, embrace pragmatism and focus on delivering value. With hydrogen poised to reshape the transportation industry, now is the time to build systems that inspire confidence and drive adoption. Parker’s decades-long commitment to innovation and quality ensures that as the hydrogen economy grows, our customers will have the tools and expertise to succeed. Whether designing valves, fittings or hoses, our focus remains the same: exceeding expectations, one application at a time.

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This blog post describes the key factors to be considered when selecting a single-use system for final fill operations.

1. Compatibility with product and process

SUS materials must not interact with the product because the resulting extractables and leachables (E&Ls) could compromise the quality and/or safety of the product. Therefore, the chemical compatibility of the SUS materials with the product is crucial. In addition, the SUS should integrate seamlessly with existing processes to ensure that it does not disrupt production workflow or efficiency.

2. System sterility

Sterility is one of the most important factors for final filling. The selected SUS should ensure robust sterility throughout its lifecycle – from manufacturing and packaging to implementation in the process. The design of the SUS should support the objective of mitigating the contamination risk by reducing the number of connections as potential points of contamination and incorporating aseptic connectors and transfer systems. For pre-sterilized systems, validated methods must be used to ensure that each step has been proven to effectively minimize the risk of contamination.

3. Flexibility and scalability

The ability to adapt to varying production volumes without compromising quality or efficiency is critical. An ideal SUS for final filling should be scalable, enabling easy adjustment to different batch sizes and fill volumes, and facilitating seamless scale-up or scale-down. Flexibility in design using various materials such as TPE and silicone to accommodate different product types and fill volumes is also essential.

4. Regulatory compliance

The selection of an SUS for final filling of biopharmaceuticals requires thorough understanding of and compliance with the regulatory framework including compliance with FDA and EMA standards and the specific requirements of Annex 1 relating to the manufacture of sterile medicinal products. The selected SUS must comply with current regulations and be flexible enough to accommodate future regulatory changes, particularly those that emphasize risk management and quality assurance. In addition, suppliers must provide detailed validation documentation to demonstrate that the system complies with these regulations. This documentation, covering sterilization methods, system integrity, and compatibility assessments, is critical for regulatory submissions and ensures that the SUS supports both compliance and the highest standards of product quality and patient safety.

5. Assembly and closed system design

The move toward closed single-use systems significantly improves sterility and process efficiency. SUS should be designed to ensure a completely closed system from the container to the filling needle. The integration of overmolding technology is a key innovation in achieving a truly closed SUS. It replaces traditional barbed connections and reduces the number of connections required. Overmolding not only creates a more reliable, leak-proof connection but also plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the closed system in line with Annex 1 requirements emphasizing the importance of closed systems in the manufacture of sterile products. This technology significantly reduces potential points of contamination, ensuring a higher level of sterility.

 6. Supplier reliability, support and customization capacity It is important to work with a supplier that understands that every final fill process is unique and that can offer flexible solutions tailored to specific operational requirements. This ensures that the implemented single-use system is of high quality and perfectly aligned with the customer’s process requirements, improving both efficiency and compliance. A supplier’s ability to provide comprehensive support throughout the lifecycle of the single-use system – from initial design to final implementation – can have a significant impact on the success of the customer’s final fill operations.

Bottom line

Selecting the right single-use system design for final filling is a critical choice that can have a significant impact on product quality, regulatory compliance, and manufacturing efficiency. Prioritizing considerations such as compatibility, sterility assurance, flexibility, regulatory compliance, and supplier reliability can improve final fill operations and ensure product safety. It is important to partner with a supplier who understands the various requirements and challenges. In this context, Parker has demonstrated its reliability with its PureTain® final fill single-use solution. Get in touch with us. Our team of process specialists will be happy to discuss your requirements and work with you to find the best single-use solution for your final fill application.

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In today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the push for environmental sustainability and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions has become paramount. While the passenger car industry is increasingly turning to electrification as a solution, this technology often does not deliver the performance required for many heavy-duty truck and off-highway applications. As a result, these markets are exploring alternative fuels to diesel, such as ethanol, methanol, natural gas, biodiesel, and hydrogen. However, this transition brings forth a unique challenge: the need for effective sealing solutions that can accommodate multiple fuel types. Enter fuel agnostic sealing materials—an innovative solution that offers numerous advantages for OEMs.

The challenge of diverse fuels

Traditionally, different elastomers were required to seal each type of fuel, leading to increased complexity in manufacturing processes. Each fuel has unique chemical properties that can affect the performance of sealing materials, requiring OEMs to source and manage a variety of elastomers. This not only complicates the production line but also increases costs and the risk of errors.

The solution: fuel agnostic sealing materials

Parker, a leader in sealing technology, has developed a series of fuel agnostic sealing materials designed to be compatible with a wide range of fuels. These innovative materials provide a robust solution for OEMs looking to streamline their production processes while maintaining high performance standards.

Key advantages of fuel agnostic sealing materials

1. Increased manufacturing efficiency
   By integrating fuel agnostic material seals into their designs, OEMs can significantly enhance manufacturing efficiency. When a single sealing material can be used across multiple fuel platforms, it becomes easier to switch production from one fuel type to another. This flexibility allows manufacturers to respond quickly to market demands without the need for extensive retooling or retraining.
2. Reduced inventory complexity
   Fuel agnostic materials reduce the number of different parts that need to be kept in inventory. With fewer elastomers to manage, carrying costs are lowered, and the complexity of inventory management is simplified. This not only streamlines operations but also minimizes the risk of stock shortages or excess inventory.
3. Minimized installation errors
   The use of a single, versatile sealing material reduces the chance of installing the wrong seal during assembly. This is crucial for maintaining quality control and reducing rework and warranty costs. By minimizing errors, OEMs can enhance customer satisfaction and protect their brand reputation.
4. Shortened design and validation time
   Developing new engine platforms often involves extensive design and validation processes. Fuel agnostic sealing materials can significantly reduce the time required for these phases. With fewer materials to test and validate, OEMs can accelerate their time-to-market, gaining a competitive edge in the industry.

Focusing on hydrogen as a fuel option

Among the various fuel types compatible with fuel-agnostic engines, hydrogen stands out as a promising option for achieving zero-emission mobility. Hydrogen can be utilized in both fuel cells and internal combustion engines, each offering unique advantages for different applications. As the hydrogen economy develops, the demand for reliable sealing solutions that can withstand the specific challenges of hydrogen operation becomes increasingly important.

Fuel-agnostic internal combustion engines that utilize hydrogen require sealing solutions capable of handling the unique properties and challenges associated with hydrogen as a fuel. Parker O-Ring & Engineered Seals Division offers a range of advanced sealing materials specifically designed for these applications. Here’s a closer look at some of our top-performing materials suitable for hydrogen that have passed ISO 23936-2, rapid gas decompression (RGD) tests at 100°C with 100% hydrogen:

1. KA183-85: This material is known for its excellent resistance to a wide range of fuels, including hydrogen. KA183 provides superior sealing performance in high-temperature applications, making it ideal for hydrogen and natural gas fuel systems.
2. E0893-80: A versatile elastomer, E0893 is designed for compatibility with various low and zero carbon fuels. Its durability and resistance to wear make it an excellent choice for sealing applications in hydrogen engines, ensuring long-lasting performance. E0893 is a cost effective, low temperature option for applications only concerned with ethanol and methanol fuels. 
3. VG109-90: Formulated for aggressive environments, VG109 offers exceptional chemical resistance, making it suitable for applications involving hydrogen and renewable natural gas (RNG). Its ability to maintain seal integrity under pressure contributes to the overall efficiency of hydrogen systems.
4. VM330-75: A fluorocarbon (FKM) material that excels in high-temperature environments, VM330 is flexible and resilient, making it ideal for sealing applications in hydrogen engines where maintaining a tight seal is crucial for performance. VM330 is a moderate, high temperature option for applications with hydrocarbon material exposure that cannot accommodate higher durometer compounds.
5. VX365-90: Known for its superior thermal stability, VX365 is engineered to withstand extreme conditions often encountered in hydrogen applications. This material provides excellent sealing capabilities, ensuring that hydrogen engines operate efficiently and reliably.

Conclusion

As the heavy-duty and off-highway industries continue to evolve toward more sustainable fuel options, the importance of innovative sealing solutions cannot be overstated. Fuel agnostic sealing materials represent a significant advancement in this area, providing OEMs with the flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings required to thrive in a competitive marketplace. By adopting these materials, manufacturers can not only meet regulatory demands but also position themselves as leaders in the transition to a more sustainable future. Embracing low and zero carbon intensity fuels is not just a smart business decision; it is a necessary step towards a greener, more efficient transportation industry.

Parker’s sealing solutions enhance reliability and performance

Parker’s rubber materials are designed to deliver reliability, longevity, and safety in fuel agnostic applications. By utilizing our advanced sealing technologies, manufacturers can ensure that their internal combustion engines maintain optimal performance while transitioning to low and zero carbon fuels. Our materials are engineered to withstand the unique challenges presented by each fuel type, including hydrogen, with its high diffusivity and potential for embrittlement in certain metals.

As the transportation industry moves toward more sustainable practices, fuel-agnostic engine platforms represent a significant step forward. With hydrogen emerging as a key player in the future of clean mobility, Parker O-Ring & Engineered Seals Division is committed to providing high-quality sealing solutions that enhance the performance, reliability, and economic viability of these innovative engines. By choosing Parker’s advanced sealing materials, manufacturers can confidently embrace the future of low and zero carbon transportation. For more information on our sealing solutions and how they can benefit your fuel-agnostic engine applications, contact us at oesmailbox@parker.com or visit us online at the Parker O-Ring & Engineered Seals Division today!

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A better future is a key focus for all manufacturers in the aviation industry, and every manufacturer is working toward that solution in their own way. Austin Major, Group Vice President of Business Development and Global Support at Parker Aerospace, highlights what this approach means in a conversation.

Q. Recently, Parker joined the consortium to advance aviation liquid hydrogen – can you tell us more?

A. Together with Marshall, GKN and Academic Partners, Parker is embarking on the HyFive project, the goal of which is to develop and implement scalable hydrogen fuel propulsion systems for aircraft ranging from small regional to single aisle. This initiative aligns with our commitment to next-generation technologies and our sustainability strategy. 

The consortium focuses on five areas related to supporting hydrogen-electric propulsion and hydrogen combustion powertrains: filtration, sensing and monitoring, transporting, fuel gauging/indication, and thermal management.

We believe these hydrogen fuel propulsion systems will be critical as our industry works toward net zero emissions and a sustainable future.

Q. How have the last couple of years been for the company? Recently, Parker Hannifin also adjusted its forecast for more profit.

A. We have experienced significant growth and an expanded portfolio with the acquisition of Meggitt. We have a positive outlook on the future of Parker Aerospace in large part due to our innovative technologies, passionate team members who make a difference every day and our comprehensive Win Strategy that guides everything we do. 

Parker is in a leading position in the global Motion and control industry. Across Parker Hannifin, we offer a broad portfolio of interconnected technologies that allow us to offer the best solutions to our customers. 

Q. How has the progress been on Alice since its first flight? What is the status of the project from Parker’s perspective?

A. The first flight of Eviation’s Alice all-electric commuter aircraft in September of 2022 began a new era in aviation. We are proud to be a partner in this incredible achievement. 

Eviation continues to make progress, as demonstrated by the completion of a formal Conceptual Design Review with wind tunnel testing in April. We are working with them closely on state-of-the-art technology for Alice by developing technologies for the future that will help bring more people together across the world in an accessible, responsible way.

Q. A lot of the focus in the commercial aerospace sphere is on electric and sustainable options today. What is Parker doing in that sphere?

A. Electrification is anticipated to be a key component of the expansion of the aviation industry. Not only is this important for our environmental responsibility, but it will reduce the cost of flight and allow for more regional and local opportunities.

We are proud to be part of this future. Parker currently has the biggest and broadest portfolio of electric technologies, and we offer other solutions like lighter weight technologies that enable more sustainable aircraft. Parker has extensive hydrogen solutions, and we have developed an extreme temperature range sealing solution that is compatible with traditional fuel and SAFs – these innovations, and a number of other green technologies, demonstrate our commitment to supporting our customers as they work toward their sustainability goals.

Q. How do Parker products contribute towards a safer environment?

A. Safety, unparalleled reliability, and zero defects are embedded in everything we do, and they are at the core of Parker’s operational philosophy. But our focus extends beyond quality and includes advanced safety systems.

At the show this year, we will be showcasing some of these technologies. This includes Verdagent, the first non-halon fire suppression agent developed and qualified in the world. We are also sharing our e-brake technology, a proprietary system that eliminates hydraulics from braking systems and is a safe, smart solution for the future. We also have a solution that addresses sealing for SAF, which can be used in a number of ways – including aircraft, engines and airports looking to develop ways to reduce their carbon footprint. 

Responding to the call for decarbonizing aviation, fuel providers are blending SAF with conventional jet fuel in ever-increasing amounts. As the composition of current and future SAF formulations may vary significantly, compatibility of all types of SAF with some traditional seal materials is a concern.

Q. What are the key product innovations that Parker has done in recent years? 

A. We are proud to offer a broader, deeper and more interconnected portfolio than we ever have in the past, and we can do this because of our focus on innovation and the combination of Parker Aerospace and Parker Meggitt.

In addition to the products I already mentioned, we are excited to share more exceptional advancements we have made at Parker. This includes an impressive suite of solutions that help solve challenges with thermal management systems and are complete, cost-effective and efficient. 

We have CoolTherm technology that helps prevent overheating and improves reliability and performance for electric vehicles, including aircraft. We also have our smart fan technology on display. These smart fans are made using no permanent magnets meaning they are cost and energy efficient. Smart controls seen on the fans can also be applied to pumps and other components.  Our passionate people with deep engineering expertise, together with our breadth of differentiated technologies, ensure that we make the extraordinary happen and continue to shape the future of aviation in partnership with our customers.

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Parker Aerospace is proud to continue supporting the pioneering Alice all-electric aircraft developed by Eviation. This partnership demonstrates Parker’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and the future of aviation. Parker Aerospace has been a key supplier to this groundbreaking project, which brings zero emissions and incredibly efficient air travel closer to becoming a reality.

Electrification and Parker Aerospace’s commitment to a sustainable future

Alice first flew on September 27, 2022, a landmark event in modern aviation history. Alice, designed for both commuter and cargo markets, demonstrated the ability to perform short flights without producing carbon emissions. The successful flight marks a significant step toward more sustainable flight.

Eviation’s Alice is designed to revolutionize regional travel, and Eviation will be offering a viable solution for routes ranging from 150 to 250 miles with models including a nine-passenger commuter model, a six-passenger executive cabin, and an eCargo version.

Parker’s advanced engineering and state-of-the-art solutions have helped support the evolution of the Alice aircraft.

With the largest portfolio of technologies that support electrification, Parker is dedicated to building the future and supporting aviation industry leaders as we work toward a greener future. Alice, which operates with zero emissions and minimal noise, provides a sustainable alternative to conventional air travel. This initiative aligns with Parker’s Purpose to develop innovative solutions that benefit the environment and communities around the world.

Driving innovation in the aviation industry

Alice is a testament to the power of progress and collaboration. The aircraft features cutting-edge electric propulsion units and advanced battery technology. Parker’s contributions highlight a commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering.

For Parker, involvement in the Alice project is more than just a business venture; it reflects the company’s core values, which highlight the belief that the future of aviation lies in sustainable and revolutionary solutions. Parker’s work with Eviation on Alice exemplifies this, embracing engineering challenges that strive to create cleaner, more efficient flight for future generations.

Looking forward

Parker remains dedicated to advancing aerospace technology through sustainable practices. Our ongoing support for the Alice project demonstrates a commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, paving the way for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

Parker is proud to be at the forefront of this pioneering project, helping to shape the future of aviation for the betterment of our world.

About Parker Aerospace At Parker Aerospace, we develop technologies and innovative solutions that enable reliable, efficient and increasingly sustainable flight for the lifecycle of the aircraft, including aftermarket support. Parker stands at the forefront of aviation technology with an expanded range of products and services that sit nose-to-tail across the entire aircraft. Our passionate people with deep engineering expertise, together with our breadth of differentiated technologies, ensure that we make the extraordinary happen and continue to shape the future of aviation in partnership with our customers.

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In the changing realm of aviation, electrification is emerging as an advancement that offers a vision of more efficient, environmentally friendly and secure air travel. At Parker, we take pride in leading this shift using our engineering know-how, innovative mindset and broad portfolio to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Embracing innovation

Innovation is core to our Purpose. Our team members strive for excellence every day through cutting-edge technology and engineering breakthroughs that help deliver a better tomorrow. We believe in pushing the boundaries of what is possible. As we focus on the challenges of the future and the technological advancements in electrification today, we are redefining the standards of performance and reliability. 

With the integration of Parker Aerospace and Parker Meggitt, our portfolio of technologies in this space is the broadest and most extensive in the industry. We continue to explore new technologies as new opportunities arise. Whether we are developing lightweight electric solutions or pioneering new technologies, we help our clients achieve their goals without compromising safety or performance.  

Across Parker, our teams are developing new ways to solve tomorrow’s challenges. Electric aircraft demand more power storage, and our modular lithium batteries enable higher energy densities and allow for fast and simple capacity changes. Our electrically powered hydraulic powerpacks utilize power-on-demand technology that can significantly reduce power consumption and automatically deliver smart power when and where it is needed. Our Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) in navigation systems, based on MEMS technology, utilizes smaller and lighter apparatus. This solution is as accurate as other high-cost solutions like fiber optic gyros. Parker is also developing smaller electric braking solutions from our proven pedigree found on the A220. These solutions allow for greener, safer, more sustainable electric aircraft.

Commitment to safety

As we progress as an industry, Parker is unwavering in our dedication to upholding safety standards. Through stringent testing procedures and quality control measures, our team is working to guarantee that each component we manufacture surpasses industry safety standards.

The electrification sector poses new challenges, especially when it comes to managing energy systems. Parker engineers are creating and evaluating systems that are not just efficient but are built with an eye to safety and security. Whether it’s mechanisms or innovative thermal management solutions at the component or system level, safety is a top priority in all our electrification endeavors.

Engineering excellence

Our success in electrification is built upon our team’s engineering skills. With a blend of knowledge and experience, we can take on challenges and deliver top-notch solutions in a collaborative work environment that nurtures innovation.

In addition, our aftermarket Services and Support Operations Team enhances the value we offer to our clients. We provide support and maintenance services to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of our electrification solutions over time. 

Sustainability: A core value at Parker

Looking ahead, we are enthusiastic about the potential of electrification. We envision a future where electric aircraft, combined with other expansive, environmentally conscious solutions, set new standards in our industry. Our goal is to continue working with our customers to achieve more secure and sustainable results that redefine aviation. These developments will ultimately make green regional and long-haul flight more attainable by reducing weight, burning less fuel, and prioritizing safety and reliability.
At Parker, we are actively shaping the future of aviation. Through our dedication to progress, safety and sustainability, we encourage you to join us on this journey as we shift towards electrification and a greener tomorrow for the industry.

The post Powering the Future: Parker’s Role in Aviation Electrification appeared first on Engineering.com.

What were you thinking about the last time you traveled on a plane? Your seat assignments, the weight of your suitcase or finding the right gate? Perhaps you were worried about takeoff or experiencing turbulence on your flight. But did you ever stop to wonder about the braking system, about if—or how—the plane would land and stop safely?

For the millions of passengers flying in and out of airports every day, it’s easy to take touchdown for granted. But for the team members in Parker’s Aerospace Group, braking has the potential to revolutionize air travel and pave the way for a better tomorrow.

“The hardest part is not making the airplane fly,” explains Grant Puckett, group chief engineer for electrification at Parker Aerospace. “We’re focused on making sure you land safely and continuing to provide the assurance society expects from the airplane industry.”

Now imagine boarding a plane where the brakes are as efficient and reliable as those in your electric car. While consumers may still be relatively early in their adoption of electrification technology, the aerospace industry has been working towards electric planes for decades, seeking ways to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. And Parker’s new electric braking system (Ebrake®) not only enhances safety and efficiency but also reflects progress toward greener, more sustainable air travel.

“Airplanes need to be able to stop when they land in all imaginable conditions,” says Puckett. “Our Ebrake uses electronic power to do that. This development is crucial because it provides electronic control for anti-skid algorithms and unique diagnostic capabilities, all while using less power and contributing to overall fuel savings.”

Traditional hydraulic braking systems are powerful but complex, and often require extensive maintenance. In contrast, the Ebrake’s electro-mechanical actuation is simpler, more reliable and more efficient.

“By eliminating hydraulic systems we reduce the plane’s weight, leading to significant fuel savings and easier maintenance,” Puckett adds. “This not only benefits airlines but also helps the environment by reducing carbon emissions​​.”

Indeed, Parker’s acquisition of Meggitt in 2022 has created a synergy of complementary technologies, particularly in electrification.

“The blend of Parker and Meggitt offers us the opportunity to think about vertical integration and draw on each other’s strengths to deliver superior solutions to our customers,” summarizes Jennifer Osbaldestin, general manager of Parker Aerospace’s Braking Systems Division.

The system’s successful implementation on the Airbus A220 is proof positive: “The Ebrake system is not only reducing maintenance needs but also enhancing safety by eliminating the need for hydraulic oils,” says Osbaldestin. “This innovation aligns with the growing demand for more sustainable and efficient aviation solutions​​.”

It also aligns with Parker’s Purpose, Enabling Engineering Breakthroughs that Lead to a Better Tomorrow. “Our Ebrake system is not just about efficiency; it’s about making a real impact on our environment,” emphasizes Puckett. “By reducing fuel consumption and emissions, we’re helping to create a more sustainable future for aviation.”

Looking ahead, there are several opportunities on the horizon, with advancements in air mobility and sustainable technologies leading the way. Osbaldestin shares her optimism: “The advanced air mobility sector is booming, and Parker is at the forefront with our innovative Ebrake technology. We’re committed to providing smarter, easier-to-maintain solutions that support our sustainability goals.” By combining the strengths of Parker and Meggitt and focusing on innovative solutions, Parker is not only improving the efficiency and safety of air travel but also setting a standard for future technological advancements. This purpose-driven approach ensures that every engineering breakthrough contributes to a better, more sustainable world.

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