28.04.2025
RH Aero Systems, the new entity created from the combination of Rhinestahl CTS and HYDRO Systems, announces the successful completion of comprehensive validation testing of its new Combi Engine Shipping Stand (PWA116039) in East Hartford, Connecticut.
Mason, Ohio, USA – April 2025 – RH Aero Systems, the new entity created from the combination of Rhinestahl CTS and HYDRO Systems, announces the successful completion of comprehensive validation testing of its new Combi Engine Shipping Stand (PWA116039) in East Hartford, Connecticut. The program confirmed that a single ground‑support device can manage a full range of logistical and maintenance scenarios for both the Pratt & Whitney PW1500G and PW1900G geared‑turbofan families, which power the Airbus A220/ACJ TwoTwenty and the Embraer E190‑E2/E195‑E2 fleets respectively.
Development Overview
Engineers from HYDRO Systems designed the stand to lower capital expenditure, accelerate turnaround time, and preserve engine integrity across air, road, and sea transport. Static proof‑load, vibration, and road‑profile testing verified structural compliance.
Key Features
Adjustable forward brackets support seamless transfers to a wing pylon via bootstrap or the general use of the COBRA Universal Engine Change System.
A collapsible fork tube providing additional clearance to maximize engine safety in confined areas.
All auxiliary tooling travels with the stand in a lockable service locker, which accommodates calibrated sight levels, torque spanners, spare trunnions, and the required shipping adapters.
Dedicated interfaces accept standard vacuum‑moisture‑inhibiting (VMI) bags and optional Global Sentinel GS‑6L trackers for position, shock, and temperature monitoring.
Operational Benefits
For supply‑chain managers, a single cradle now covers two distinct engine pools, reducing inventory and floor‑space requirements. Line‑maintenance teams benefit from integrated levelling tools and rapid re‑rig capability that can shorten an engine‑change task drastically compared with separate, single‑type cradles. Tie‑down slings allow the stand to ship as a standard ULD on major freighter platforms, maintaining warranty protection across the engine’s life‑cycle journey.
Timo Dill, HYDRO’s Program Manager for Engine Transportation Stands, notes, “By merging two thrust‑class geometries into a single cradle we have given fleet planners a tool that scales with mixed A220 and E2 operations—without sacrificing safety or efficiency.”
Availability
Serial production preparations are underway at HYDRO’s manufacturing centers. Availability timelines will be communicated on request.