Aircraft Propeller Service, LLC Now Licensed to Perform OEM-Proprietary Compression Wrap Processes on 568F Propeller Systems in IATA 1 and IATA 3

Aircraft Propeller Service, LLC (APS, www.aircraftpropeller.com, Lake Zurich, IL), one of the  oldest, largest and leading commercial propeller Maintenance Repair Organizations (MROs), continues to make technology investments enabling the company to better serve its customers. APS recently licensed 568F Propeller System Blade Compression Wrap technology and, in doing so, became the first third-party MRO licensed to perform any OEM-proprietary repairs and inspections involving the compression wrap processes.

According to APS Vice President of Sales and Marketing Dennis Santare, “This is an incredibly important distinction given the growth forecast for the ATR aircraft fleet which relies on the 568F system.” The 568F six-blade electronic control composite propeller system is manufactured by UTC Aerospace Systems (http://utcaerospacesystems.com/, Charlotte, NC).  APS’ technology purchase was facilitated by the recent funding commitment made by TCF Capital Funding (TCFCF, Wayzata, Minnesota) in February.

APS has long been a licensed source of repair for commercial turboprop propeller systems including the 568F. However, previously, the company was not licensed to perform the compression wrap processes. Once APS became an OEM-licensed MRO in the Americas and Asia, purchasing the compression wrap license was the next logical step. With this latest addition to its MRO technology line-up, APS can be a true one-stop MRO shop for the 568F and the ATR family of aircraft.

“We can handle all inspections and repairs, as well as warranty repairs, under one roof,” continued Santare. “No processes will be outsourced on the blades and almost all processes for hubs, actuators and other prop components are performed in-house.” Santare noted that, for customers operating anywhere in the Americas or Asia, this represents a significant reduction in logistics costs and turnaround time.

APS Vice President of Operations Randall Burke explained that, “Applying the 568F blade compression wrap process, we can help operators ensure a long component life. Since we now provide the full Major Inspection (MI), we know exactly where each blade is in the process and can provide real-time status to our customers.”

Regarding the cost advantages, Santare said, “Financially, having the compression wrap technology and license places us in a strong position to become very cost efficient. This will help APS earn a good amount of our customers’ 568F repair business, ensuring a sound return on the investment in the license and technology.”

The 568F is a Kevlar Shell/Graphic Spar six blade propeller. It is used on the ATR’s latest generation turboprop aircraft, including the ATR42-500/600 and ATR72-500/600. The aircraft is widely-recognized as one of the most efficient and economical options for regional airlines worldwide. 

For more information, visit: www.aircraftpropeller.com or contact: 847-541-1133 (USA).