Unison to Provide Fluid Conveyance Systems to Snecma for the LEAP-1B Engine

Unison Industries announced that it has been awarded a life-of-the-program contract by Snecma (Safran) to provide its Low Pressure Turbine Active Clearance Control and Transient Bleed Valve fluid conveyance systems for the CFM International LEAP-1B* engine. The LEAP-1B engine will power the next generation of Boeing’s 737 aircraft series, launched as the 737 MAX, and is expected to enter into service in 2017.

Unison Industries mechanical division supplies highly complex and simple fluid conveyance systems for engine and airframe applications using a broad range of materials and production techniques. Unison is vertically integrated, and as a result is uniquely qualified to rapidly design, develop and qualify fluid conveyance systems.

"This represents a tremendous step forward for our commercial team as we leverage our lean manufacturing supply chain for a new application" said Mike Grunza, president of Unison Industries. "We have been planning for quite some time for this strategic win and are ready to hit the ground running on the execution phase of the contract."

“Being awarded this contract by Snecma for the LEAP-1B engine reflects their confidence in Unison and the value it brings to the next generation of the world’s best-selling engine,” said Keith Campbell, general manager, Fluid Delivery and Thermal Systems. “Unison’s breadth of materials and capabilities was an important consideration in award of this program to Unison, and we look forward to working with Snecma on this very important program.”

Keith went on to say, “Unison is committed to the growth of its fluid conveyance and thermal management products through increased manufacturing capacity, incorporation of new technologies, and additive manufacturing which has demonstrated weight savings of up to 60% using what once were thought to be cost prohibitive materials. This is an exciting time for Unison’s Fluid Delivery & Thermal Systems business as we aggressively introduce new products and capabilities that add value to our customers.”

Unison Industries, LLC, is a leader in the design, manufacture and integration of electrical and mechanical components and systems for aircraft engines and airframes. Unison serves both original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket customers in commercial, military and general aviation markets. Unison's headquarters are in Jacksonville, FL, and it employs more than 2,500 people in five manufacturing facilities and logistics centers worldwide.

Snecma (Safran group) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft and space engines, with a wide range of propulsion systems on offer. The company designs and builds commercial aircraft engines – including the global best-seller CFM56 and the new LEAP advanced turbofan* – that are powerful, reliable, economical and environmentally friendly, along with military aircraft engines that have always delivered world-class performance. Snecma also develops and produces propulsion systems and equipment for launch vehicles and satellites. EngineLife®, a new brand for Snecma’s service business, offers a complete range of engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services to airlines, armed forces and operators.

*The CFM56 and LEAP engines are produced and marketed by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (Safran group, France) and GE (United States).

**Patent pending