Eaton Unveils First Commercial 5,000 psi Hydraulic Pump
Unprecedented 5,000 psi hydraulic pressure from 12 new on-board
pumps will save weight aboard the Airbus A380 by allowing a reduction
in pipe diameter. First shown by Eaton Corporation just before
the show opened, the pump represents a quantum leap in capability
for civil aircraft, previously limited to 3,000 psi systems. Airbus
announced in October 2001 that Eaton had won the hydraulic system
contract for the A380, valued at a possible $200 million over
the aircraft's 20-year production life. Testing of the first pumps
begins this month. They power the primary flight controls, landing
gear, nosewheel steering and other utility systems. Eaton is also
supplying components for the isolation and ground service panel,
including Sterer brand solenoid valves and Aeroquip quick-disconnect
couplings. It also supplied Goodrich with main landing gear dressings
for the A380.
