Singapore Aero Engine Services
Private Limited (SAESL)
Improving safety and streamlining operations at aerospace centre of excellence
The project
Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited (SAESL) provides best in class engine and component repair services for the world’s leading aero-engine manufacturer.
It’s the world’s largest Trent engine maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) supplier, with the capacity and capability to support all products in the Trent family.
With a customer base spanning six continents, SAESL prides itself on its reputation for service excellence.
The Challenge
Working with a Coventry-based systems integrator, we provided complete control and safety aspects for SAESL’s on-site jet engine core maintenance in Singapore.
Our brief was to create a system that allows aero-engine technicians to ergonomically access any part of a civil aircraft jet engine core without stretching or crouching in enclosed, awkward or potentially hazardous positions.
While the systems integrator oversaw the mechanical aspect of this project, we dealt with all electrical apparatus and operational equipment.
Our solution
We designed an integrated control system to create a platform for maintenance staff to walk on to build, service and maintain the engines. It’s programmed to know the dimensions of each engine variant, allowing the fingers to fit securely around each engine.
This system also allows for the engine core to move up and down, creating a platform for the engineers to work safely and efficiently at any height – again, programmed for various engines.
It’s a simple to use system which allows the client to quickly and effectively adapt the platform to suit their needs, dependent upon each engine variant.
In total, we supplied five similar systems with slight variations. Once all systems were finished, and the preliminary factory acceptance tests were complete, we sent engineers and technicians out to Singapore to perform the installation, finalise the software, perform site acceptance tests and train SAESL’s technicians.
The Impact
The systems we installed have revolutionised the productivity and speed at which operations can be performed at SAESL.
The system’s design was considered so that it was practical but extremely tidy, helping the client maintain a clean and clutter-free working environment – essential for supporting the principles of lean manufacturing.
On the back of this successful project, we were commissioned to create a similar system, on a much larger scale to help the aerospace OEM produce its range of aircraft jet engines.
It’s just another example of how Banelec can apply our automation and electrical control systems expertise to make major manufacturing operations and industrial processes smarter, safer and more sustainable.