Maintenance

Aviation

Maintenance of aviation wear parts: Efficient MRO processes with cleaning baskets and workpiece carriers from ZELL

The maintenance of aviation components requires maximum process reliability, complete traceability and reliable protection of high-quality components - from the engine to the cabin hydraulics. Structured workpiece carriers and cleaning baskets are crucial for efficiency, quality and compliance, especially when it comes to the maintenance and cleaning of wearing parts.

ZELL offers modular carrier systems that are specially designed to meet the requirements of aviation MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) - compatible with applicable standards and automatable maintenance processes.

🧩 ZELL workpiece carriers & cleaning baskets: Technically sophisticated for MRO practice

Suitable for all common MRO process steps:

  • Parts cleaning: Ultrasound, spray chamber, steam, solvent baths
  • Visual and mechanical inspection: visual inspection, dimensional check, functional check
  • Preservation & coating: Passivation, PVD/CVD, protective coatings

Typical design features:

  • Chemical and temperature-resistant materials (e.g. stainless steel 1.4301, PA6GB30)
  • Form-fit and force-fit supports with component protection (clamping profiles, soft inlays, compartments)
  • Handle and stacking edges according to ergonomic specifications
  • Optional integration of RFID, DMC, engraving or barcode for seamless traceability
  • Resistant to >500 cleaning cycles - validated in real aviation MRO processes

🔍 Typical application examples from the aviation industry

🔧 Example 1: Engine maintenance (CFM56, LEAP, PW1000G)

  • Cleaning of turbine blades & static components
  • Individual holders in the cleaning basket prevent edge contact
  • DMC marking with clear traceability per component

🔧 Example 2: Landing gear MRO (e.g. A320/B737 Brake Assembly)

  • Workpiece carrier with module-specific clamping for valves and pistons
  • Integration into leak test benches and manual visual inspection stations

🔧 Example 3: Hydraulic component repair

  • Sorting baskets with foam-mounted compartments for seals, springs, bushes
  • Mixing protection through segmented cleaning units
  • 25 % faster component allocation for reassembly

📈 Economic benefits for technical management and purchasing

The workpiece carrier and cleaning basket systems from ZELL are designed for long-term use and high process reliability - and therefore offer clear economic advantages for the operation of certified MRO organizations.

Thanks to the high reusability of the carrier systems - in some cases over 500 documented cleaning and process cycles - consumption costs can be significantly reduced. Unlike disposable carriers or improvised holder solutions, ZELL systems offer long-term investment protection, as all components are designed to withstand typical cleaning chemicals, temperature loads and mechanical stress.

In addition, the modular carriers ensure a significant reduction in set-up and sorting times, especially for complex components or variant-rich maintenance. In practice, the time to ready-to-use parts inspection or assembly can be reduced, which has a direct impact on the throughput time and productivity of the maintenance areas.

Quality also benefits measurably: thanks to form-fit holders, precisely fitting fixtures and defined protection against contact and bearing effects, transport damage, mix-ups and cleaning defects are significantly minimized - with proven reductions in reject rates of over 90 %.

Last but not least, the ZELL systems are fully compatible with existing systems, conveyor technology and automated inspection solutions. Tracking requirements - such as RFID, DMC or serial engraving - can also be integrated directly into the carrier structure and thus meet current standards for traceability and auditability (e.g. in accordance with EASA Part 145, FAA or internal OEM specifications).

🧠 Why ZELL? - Modular. Tailor-made. Proven in aviation.

For over 30 years, ZELL has been developing modular clamping and carrier systems for industries with the highest quality requirements. In the aviation industry, we supply solutions for OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers and certified MRO companies worldwide. All systems are developed in close cooperation with users - CAD-supported, process-specific and, on request, with simulation and documented validation.

Conclusion: Clear processes. Clean parts. Economical operation.

Cleaning baskets and workpiece carriers are not just accessories - they are an integral part of efficient, safe and auditable MRO processes. With ZELL carrier systems, you create the basis for reduced costs, assured quality and complete traceability - whether in the ultrasonic bath, on the test bench or in warehouse logistics.

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