MINNEAPOLIS, MN – September 25,2007 – Donaldson Company (NYSE:DCI), a leading, worldwide manufacturer of filtration systems and parts, has been selected by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX), to provide the engine air particle protection system (EAPPS) for the CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter Program.
The CH-53K is a derivative of the successful CH-53A/D/E heavy lift helicopters. This new platform allows the United States Marine Corps to fly in austere and remote environments while providing a substantial increase in lift capability and maintaining naval shipboard compatibility. Replacing the current inventory of CH-53E helicopters, the CH-53K is scheduled to achieve its Initial Operating Capability (IOC) in FY 2015.
Using Donaldson's patented Strata™ Tube technology, Donaldson will design, develop, and qualify an inlet filter system that will protect each of the CH-53K engines from damage caused by contamination. Donaldson Strata Tubes are light-weight and provide high efficiency filtration with minimal maintenance requirements. When installed, this advanced filtration system will protect the CH-53K turbine engines from sand and dust ingestion, which can cause premature engine degradation.
During the production phase of the program Sikorsky expects to deliver at least 156 aircraft to the United States Marines. There will be three EAPPS on each aircraft, one for each engine. "Donaldson is pleased to be awarded this important program for Sikorsky's CH-53K heavy lift helicopter," said Sheila Peyraud, General Manager, Aerospace and Defense at Donaldson. "With over 90 years of experience in supplying to the aerospace and military industry, we are confident in our ability to design and manufacture the CH-53K EAPPS."
For more information, visit the Donaldson Aerospace website at www.donaldson.com/en/aircraft or contact Donaldson toll free at (866) 323-0394.About Donaldson Company
Donaldson is a leading worldwide provider of air and liquid filtration systems and replacement parts that improve people's lives, enhance our customers' equipment performance and protect our environment. We are a technology-driven company committed to satisfying our customers' needs for diesel engine equipment and industrial filtration solutions through innovative research and development, superior technology, and global presence. Our 12,000 employees contribute to the company's success by supporting our customers at more than 100 sales, manufacturing, and distribution locations around the world.
Donaldson is a member of the S&P MidCap 400 and Russell 1000 indices, and our shares trade on the NYSE under the symbol DCI. Additional information is available at www.donaldson.com.About Sirkorsky Aircraft Corp.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.
