The managing director of a minor metals company claimed yesterday (23rd November) that aero engine makers may be tempted to use nickel-based alloys containing ruthenium.

Back in 1996, the NASA Joint Development Project confirmed that the 'Fourth Generation' alloys - which operate at 50C higher than normal - could significantly reduce emissions from aircraft.

However, a combination of the relative lack of supply of ruthenium and huge, immediate demand for the metal from the electronics industry meant that airline companies gave way, despite their commercialisation.

But after a considerable spike in prices, ruthenium has returned to levels of around $150-200 per toz and Anthony Lipmann, of Lipmann Walton and Co, has claimed on the company website that this may be an attractive price for engine makers and super alloy melters.

He wrote: "[Aero engine makers] know that an alloy exists which allows them the design space to achieve greater efficiencies needed on both environmental and efficiency grounds."

Mr Lipmann also alluded to the fact that the alloys could go a long way to helping aerospace companies meet the upcoming European Air Quality targets, which will be enshrined in law in 2010.



Source:

Will aero engine makers be tempted back into Ruthenium now that the spike is over? (23/11/08)
http://www.lipmann.co.uk/articles/will_aero_engine_makers.html