US-based lightweight metal provider Alcoa has secured a $470m long-term contract to supply aluminium sheet and plate for Brazil-based Embraer’s new E2 aircraft programme.
Scheduled to enter into service in 2018, the E2s belong to the second generation of Embraer’s E-Jets family and will serve the narrow-body, medium-range jet market.
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Under the contract, Embraer will receive Alcoa’s proprietary alloys, which will be used in the wing skins and fuselage sheet on the E2 line of jets.
The deal also includes other Alcoa plate products used in various applications such as wing ribs, fuselage frames and other structural parts of the aircraft.
Alcoa aerospace and automotive products business president Mark Vrablec said: "Our partnership with Embraer is rooted in constant innovation and this contract is further proof of that strength.
"Our patented alloys enable us to support our customer’s game-changing E2 programme."
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By GlobalDataAs part of the deal, Alcoa’s products will also be used on Embraer’s KC-390 military transport aircraft and executive jets.
Embraer noted that the market segment to be served by the E2 programme is projected to require 6,350 new aircraft over the next 20 years.
The plane maker currently has more than 50% market share by orders with the existing E-Jet.
In April, Alcoa had signed a deal with Airbus to supply 3D-printed titanium fuselage and engine pylon components for Airbus commercial aircraft.
The first additive manufactured parts are scheduled to be delivered later this year.
Image: Alcoa’s proprietary alloys will be used in the wing skins and fuselage sheet on Embraer’s E2 line of jets. Photo: courtesy of Alcoa.
