FACC : receives Upper Austrian Innovation Award

Yesterday, FACC AG received the Upper Austrian Innovation Award 2017 for the development of 'active thermography', a new and highly efficient test method for lightweight components of fiber composite materials. Robert Machtlinger, CEO of FACC, accepted the third prize in the category 'large-scale enterprise' on the occasion of the official award ceremony in the regional ORF studio of Upper Austria. The prize was presented by the Deputy Governor of Upper Austria, Dr. Michael Strugl.

FACC convinced the jury with a non-destructive test method which permits a faster and more efficient testing of aviation components. 'The technology is a worldwide novelty: FACC is the first and only enterprise throughout the aviation industry who got the permission from Boeing to use thermographic testing in the series production of aircraft components', said Robert Machtlinger, CEO of FACC, emphasizing the enormous importance of this milestone in the field of test technology. 'Due to this innovative leap we can strengthen our role as a leading technology partner in the field of aerospace.' FACC is currently working flat out to get the permission from two other major aircraft manufacturers. In both cases, FACC would also be the first supplier using the new test method. Robert Machtlinger said: 'With this invention, FACC has proven again that it is technologically always one step ahead. This will enable us to further expand our position as an Austrian technology company in the international aviation market.'

The innovation was realized in several years of research work together with experts of the University for Applied Sciences in Wels and the specialists involved in the promotion projects of the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG).

Active thermography - faster and more accurate than ultrasonic testing
Through 'active thermography', the new and highly efficient test method for lightweight components of fiber composite materials, testing times and costs can be reduced significantly while simultaneously increasing reliability. Non-destructive testing becomes quicker and more accurate, testing times become shorter, and the investment costs for complex test equipment become lower. The previously used ultrasound tests required components to be scanned in millimeter increments, which took a lot of time. The innovation makes it possible to map complete components within seconds. Previously, stationary and expensive facilities were used. The equipment for thermographic testing is mobile, universally applicable and clearly cheaper. 'The completely new process can be integrated in the production lines and is a quantum leap towards Industry 4.0', said Robert Machtlinger. 'With its numerous advantages, the method has the potential to revolutionize non-destructive testing of aviation components.'

Prize for innovative companies
The State Innovation Award honors the most innovative enterprises in Upper Austria and is intended to highlight and recognize the innovative capacity and technological performance of domestic companies. An independent jury assesses the submitted projects and awards prizes to inventions and developments featuring a high potential for application.

For further information, please contact:

Andreas Perotti
Director / Spokesperson
Corporate Communications & Marketing
Tel.: +43/59/616-1142
Cell: +43/664/ 80 119 1142
E-Mail: a.perotti@facc.com

Andrea Schachinger
Corporate Communications & Marketing
Tel.: +43/59/616-1194
E-Mail: a.schachinger@facc.com