Safran Transmission Systems Poland plays pivotal role in LEAP engine growth

Powering new-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX and COMAC C919, the LEAP engine now stands as the engine boasting the fastest commercial growth in the history of aviation with almost 14,450 orders and commitments in late June.

A key link in rise of the LEAP

Safran Transmission Systems Poland, specialized in manufacturing and assembling mechanical power transmissions systems for the CFM56 and LEAP engines, is at the forefront of the ramp up in production of the LEAP program. "By 2020, 85 % of our operations will be related to the LEAP engines. This illustrates the impact of this growth on our company," says Jan Sawicki.

The Polish site will in fact assemble almost 1,700 power transmissions in 2018 and more than 2,000 in 2019, which "represents an increase of more than 65% compared to 2017." Safran Transmission Systems Poland also produces low-pressure compressor components for Safran Aero Boosters and helicopter engine gears for Safran Helicopter Engines.

Innovation as a driving force

As the Group's first company to operate out of Poland in 2001, in Poland's aviation valley, Safran Transmission Systems Poland benefits from the dynamics of this aeronautical center of excellence, while contributing to its development through its investments and involvement in educational programs. Boasting one-hundred-year-old tradition of aeronautical excellence, a cluster of major international players, cutting-edge training tailored to industry's needs and a strategic location in the middle of Europe, Aviation Valley brings together all of the components as part of a virtuous approach, generating numerous technological advances.

Capitalizing on this ecosystem and on a tradition of innovation, Safran Transmission Systems Poland is doing everything it can to take up the challenge of the ramp-up in production of the LEAP engine. "We have embarked on a real transformation program: extending the plant, modernizing equipment and processes, recruiting to now have more than 750 employees…," explains Jan Sawicki, who is fervent supporter of a continuous improvement and innovation culture.

Meticulously preparing for the future

Teamwork is the key to such excellence. "Working closely with our partners to identify their needs, improving processes and sharing our best practices is a key condition for success," says Jan Sawicki.

There is no sign of things letting up for Safran Transmission Systems Poland: "our past was forged through constant developments. The same will hold true for the future too. We are continuing to innovate to meet the requirements of our customers and partners; this is already the case with the manufacturing of a "cut mass" casing, i.e. a casing that is forged as opposed to smelted." The primary benefit of this process results in the length of the industrialization cycle being cut.

* a 50/50 joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE.