The new state of the art Bombardier C-Series aircraft utilizes advanced materials to maximize efficiency by reducing weight. Ducommun was selected because of our ability to form and process large specialty material aircraft skins.

Ducommun value proposition/solution:

Bombardier Aerospace has contracted with SAC in China to manufacture the center fuselage as well as the tailcone structure and doors for their new C-Series aircraft. Bombardier and Ducommun have a long standing and successful relationship. Bombardier understands Ducommun's unique capabilities and processes centered on forming large complex skins. Our vertically integrated facilities have the necessary Bombardier approvals required to support this package. As a result of our successful relationship Bombardier has recommended that Ducommun form and process the Aluminum Lithium Skins for SACC.

Outcome/benefits:

SACC has partnered with Ducommun’s Gardena and Orange Divisions to provide a total of 29 formed and processed fuselage skins with sizes up to 92” by 328”. The Ducommun Team has worked closely with Bombardier and SACC engineering to provide technical support on the development and design for manufacturability on this project.

The skins will be formed using Ducommun’s large rollforming (24') and stretchforming (128" x 34') equipment. The skins are then chemically milled utilizing one of the largest and most tightly controlled processing facilities in the world. Upon completion, parts are routed using custom pogo tables, heat treated and finished as required, mostly within Ducommun's world class facilities.

The C-Series aircraft is in the popular 100 to 150 passenger class. Because of the advance materials and optimized technology, the aircraft will see reduced operating costs, better fuel efficiency, reduced emission of greenhouse gasses, and reduced noise.