Liebherr at ILA Berlin 2024 – transform.develop.sustain

Under the motto "transform.develop.sustain.", Liebherr-Aerospace's presence at this year's trade show demonstrates that the company is ready for the aviation industry’s challenges, which are characterized by an all-embracing transformation process. With investments in research and technology far above the industry average, Liebherr is making a significant contribution to the development of a more efficient and environmentally friendly air transport.

Many years of experience in the design and integration of environmental control and thermal management systems, flight control and actuation, landing gears and in the field of signal and power electronics make Liebherr an indispensable partner to aircraft manufacturers.

The company is continuously looking beyond the limits of what is feasible today. For example: electrification, 3D printing, or hydrogen technologies can make a huge contribution here. Qualified employees are key in the transformation process and contribute significantly to Liebherr's success. That is why the company is highlighting career opportunities and inviting guests for a dialog on its commercial booth.

Long wingspan with folding mechanism for improved aerodynamics

Even from a distance, the Boeing 777X's folding wingtip "beckons" visitors to the Liebherr booth. The moving mock-up (scale 1:1.15) shows how the wingtip of the extra-long wing can be folded upward to better fit the airport infrastructure. Components of the mechanism, such as the angle gearbox, the power drive unit, and numerous actuators are designed by Liebherr and will be on display. Innovative designs of thinner and longer wings support more CO2-efficient flying by improved aerodynamics. Liebherr is supporting this trend by offering reliable folding mechanisms for future more efficient aircraft platforms.

3D printing and digitization

3D-printed components made by Liebherr are flying every day. The company is constantly developing its capabilities and extending them to towards multiple applications. On display at ILA Berlin is an additively manufactured housing of a secondary locking actuator. According to in-depth tests, the aviation-certified housing is of lower weight, and its performance is 100% equivalent to that of a conventionally manufactured component.

In addition, digital means are revolutionizing the way Liebherr designs, builds and maintains aircraft systems. On its way to becoming a model-based enterprise, Liebherr is exchanging models with customers as early as possible to contribute to more efficient aircraft design and development.

Electrification and decarbonization

Liebherr has also been driving forward the electrification of today's aircraft for many years and offers successful applications for the future in this area. In aircraft that will be more electric in the future, the engine will be decoupled from onboard power consumers for increased efficiency. Electric power will replace bleed air or hydraulic systems and enable the introduction of electric air management and actuation systems. Liebherr's exhibits show that the company can already master these requirements today: Electromechanical actuators (EMA) and a hologram of the high-efficiency power pack (HEPP), are on display.

Furthermore, future more sustainable aircraft will require autonomous electrical power generation. Liebherr is working to ensure that hydrogen technology can be used to power non-propulsive systems on board future aircraft using electricity provided by fuel cells. At the same time, thermal management of the whole, i.e. fuel cells and electrified systems, is being ensured.

Leader in the development of electromechanical actuators

As electrification moves on in aviation, Liebherr has further added small electromechanical actuators to its product portfolio. The new concept specifically addresses the emerging AAM (Advanced Air Mobility) sector. It is also essential for smaller aircraft, business jets and helicopters. The product approach offers scalability for small installation envelopes, a favorable power-to-weight ratio and high reliability.

Strong partner in the defense sector

In the Military Support Center (MSC), Liebherr showcases its activities as a long-term as well as reliable partner of the German Armed Forces. A Eurofighter nose landing gear by Liebherr-Aerospace and several products for the NH90 helicopter are eye-catchers. The repair workshop in the German Equipment Industry display in the MSC will be also a special highlight: a service technician from Liebherr will be working on equipment of the Eurofighter and the CH-53.