Superior Introduces Four-cylinder Crankshafts

Coppell, TX, (January 16, 2006) –– Superior Air Parts has received FAA approval to begin production of the revolutionary new ESR crankshafts.

"Superior is the first company to use the ESR process in the production of general aviation engine parts," said Keith Blockus, Senior Director of Product Development and Engineering for Superior. "We have recently introduced these new crankshafts into our four-cylinder engine products: the XP-360 Engine for the sport aviation market and the FAA certified Vantage Engine."

Basically ESR (Electro Slag Remelt) differs from the industry standard VAR (Vacuum Arc Remelt) process by being able to remove many more impurities that are found in steel and can lead to production and service problems. "This process gives us the ability to add chemicals to the slag that will absorb and remove greater amounts of impurities from the metals to create much cleaner steel," he said. "Beyond that, electro slag is a much more modern and controllable process. Because of the better material properties achieved with ESR a lot of critical applications in other industries have switched to this process."

"As a part of our FAA certification we conducted durability and endurance testing for both crankshaft bending fatigue and torsional twisting fatigue," he added. "And we did it at much higher power levels that what was required by the FAA regulations. By taking these extra steps, we established a significant margin of safety for our new crankshafts."

Superior Air Parts, Inc. is the manufacturer of the new FAA certified Vantage Engine. The company also manufactures FAA approved aftermarket cylinders and replacement parts for Lycoming and Continental aircraft engines. In addition, the company manufactures the XP-360 Engine family for experimental and sport aircraft builders. www.superiorairparts.com