General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) is currently manufacturing the new Do228 NXT special mission aircraft, a new version of the reliable Do228, in Germany. Many of the aircraft’s main components, including the wings, are now being manufactured in-house. The German aircraft manufacturer is using a new surface treatment process called Tartaric Sulfuric Acid Anodizing (TSAA) in production. This process offers technical, ecological and process-related advantages.
Reliable corrosion protection for a long service life and high operational reliability of the Do228
Corrosion protection refers to any measure that prevents or delays damage to a material – usually metal – caused by chemical or electrochemical reactions, such as rust formation.
This is particularly important in aviation because aircraft are exposed to extreme conditions and even minor corrosion can compromise structural safety. Targeted coatings, such as anodizing, increase service life, simplify maintenance and ensure long-term operational safety. For this reason, this process was chosen for the Do228 NXT.
Modern and environmentally friendly surface treatment process
As part of the Do228 NXT development, many components and pieces of equipment of the aircraft were modernized and modern manufacturing processes were implemented in the production lines. While the predecessor model, the Do228 NG, had wings coated with Chromic Acid Anodizing, GA-ATS now relies on Tartaric Sulfuric Acid Anodizing. This means that wing production also complies with the current REACH regulation, a chemicals regulation of the European Union.
The selected process optimally meets corrosion protection requirements and boasts excellent adhesion. Since TSAA forms a thicker oxide layer, it is also more robust and resistant. TSAA is a more environmentally friendly alternative to previous surface treatments.
With the introduction of TSAA, General Atomics AeroTec Systems has once again underscored its commitment to combining modern aviation technology with sustainability and the highest levels of technical quality and safety. After successfully completing all Tartaric Sulfuric Acid Anodizing test runs this year, the new coating technology will now be integrated into the Do228 NXT series production.
