New research facility for Airbus
Airbus built a “Ground Demonstrator” in Taufkirchen as part of an initiative to further develop new hybrid drive systems.
Establishment of a highly specific test facility for further developing new hybrid drive systems
io was lead consultant, responsible for planning and implementing the building, including permit management and parts of the process technology.
The project was launched in August 2016 with a concept idea: individual functions were to interact over life-sized ‘aircraft-like’ distances, which posed a significant challenge in terms of construction, sound insulation, building technology and safety.
The test facility includes two test stations for engine units with a power class of up to 20 MW, space for operating batteries or fuel cells, a hangar with special vibration-damped foundations for operating load machines, and a multifunctional area for testing energy distribution systems in aircraft parts.
An in-house power distribution system connects the process areas using matrix systems. External energy connections for emulating power generation, control centers, measuring stations and administrative areas were also part of the project scope.
The building was completed in March 2019.
Key Facts
Client
Airbus is a leader in developing, manufacturing and delivering aerospace products, services and solutions to customers worldwide.
A global leader with a workforce of over 130,000 and the largest aerospace company in Europe, Airbus is the vanguard of the aerospace industry.
The challenge
- Interlinking the individual functions: particular challenge relating to the construction, sound insulation, building services and safety of the building
- Building had to meet approval standards according to the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG) regulations
Solution
- Test rigs for engine units with a power class of up to 20 MW
- Premises suitable for operation of batteries or fuel cells
- Hall area with vibration-damped special foundations for the operation of load machines
- Multifunctional area for testing energy distribution systems in aircraft parts
- In-house power distribution architecture that interconnects process areas via matrix systems
