RUAG streamlines TPE331 engine shop

Brand new workstations – organised according to lean management principles – together with new processes, ensure that Honeywell TPE331 engine customers benefit from faster turnaround times and improved efficiency at RUAG Aviation.

The engine shop in Stans, Switzerland, has reopened its doors, following more than four months of renovations, and a full redesign and refit of the workshop according to lean principles. The shop’s upgrade is the culmination of a wider project that examined all aspects of operations at the facility, everything from workstation ergonomics and processes, to training, planning and documentation, to identify areas where there was potential for greater efficiency.

Customers are already realising the benefits of the enhanced lean-optimised operation.  “The most important outcome of the optimisation has been a reduction in the lead times realised by our customers,” states Philippe Brauchli, General Manager Engines. “It has had a very positive effect on the workflows within the entire maintenance, repair and overhaul team.”

One of the engine workshops is dedicated to the servicing of Honeywell TPE331 engines, including heavy maintenance and overhaul, periodic inspections, repairs and field support services. RUAG Aviation is an Authorised Honeywell Service Centre, and its Honeywell engine specialists have extensive expertise with the TPE331: The engine powers the Casa C-212, Cessna Conquest II, Jetstream 31, Mitsubishi MU2, Turbo Commander, and the Fairchild Merlin III, as well as the Dornier 228 – of which RUAG is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

In addition to the scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of engines, RUAG Aviation offers Honeywell TPE331 engine customers a range of tailored solutions and services, designed to ensure engine availability and reduce engine-related service events. Customers are able to take advantage of a rental engine from RUAG while their engine is undergoing maintenance. Additional benefits are available from the RUAG Aviation Engine Maintenance Cost Plan (EMCP), which allows the customer to plan cost by the hour and therefore rely on transparent and predictable budget planning.