AFI KLM E&M Thinks Big With ATEC Test Benches

Paris, Amstelveen, 17 March 2011 Located at Roissy-CDG, Orly, Amsterdam-Schiphol and Miami, the ATEC test benches are must-have systems for examining and testing avionics equipment and latest-generation control units. AFI KLM E&M has continuously stepped up its offering over the years and recently took delivery of its latest ATEC 6 test bench at its Schiphol facility.

For over two decades, AFI KLM E&M has been using ATEC automated test benches and as a result boasts in-depth experience and know-how on these systems.

Positioned in state-of-the-art workshops working to Lean Six Sigma principles, the test benches enable AFI KLM E&M to carry out testing and overhauls on the majority of components equipping aircraft in the Boeing and Airbus families. Their use notably means reduced repair TAT, and some of the highest reliability ratios in the sector.

Taco Vingerhoed, Director Avionics and Accessories at KLM E&M, highlights “the Group’s extensive ATEC capabilities, thanks to which we have been certified by GE to support repairs at all levels of the ECU (Engine Control Unit) as a Repair Source Substantiation.”

Close links with the manufacturer. AFI KLM E&M has had a partnership relationship with Cassidian Test & Services, the designer of ATEC test benches, for many years. The Group leverages this collaboration to drive its ability to develop its own test bench programs in-house, in conjunction with the manufacturer.

The added value provided by AFI KLM E&M in respect of ATEC services resides in its ability to handle the most complex Level 2 and 3 repairs using its ATEC test benches, notably to identify and replace faulty sub-assemblies and carry out board changes, etc. Jean-Luc Moine, in charge of Component Maintenance Operations at Air France Industries, said that its “relations with the test bench manufacturer allow AFI KLM E&M considerable autonomy to develop program lines – a key advantage when access to technical datas becomes an issue. In addition, this ability to handle an extensive number of repairs makes it an adaptive and reliable solution for our customers.”

About AFI KLM E&M. Air France Industries and KLM Engineering & Maintenance, which joined forces following the Air France KLM merger, are world-leading multi-product MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) providers with a joint workforce of over 14,000, offering comprehensive technical support for airlines, ranging from engineering and line maintenance to engine overhaul, as well as the management, repair and supply of aircraft components, structured around a powerful logistics network. AFI KLM E&M supports more than 1,230 aircraft operated by 150 major international airlines. www.afiklmem.com