Rane Brake Linings to supply aircraft brake pads for HAL''s Kiran MK I

Chennai: After manufacturing brake blocks for railways the city-based Rs14-crore brake linings manufacturer, Rane Brake Linings Limited (part of the $241-million Rane Group) has now made an entry into the aerospace market by successfully developing high-energy disc brake pads for the main wheel brakes of the Kiran Mk I aircraft manufactured by HAL.

The company received a formal certification from the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) last week.

The Kiran Mk I aircraft designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is the workhorse jet trainer of the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy (Aviation). For a long time the armed forces had been trying to localise the brake pads as sourcing from overseas resulted in higher costs and lead time.

Manufacturing aircraft brake pads is a technological challenge, as the pads have to withstand extremely high temperatures while braking. To its credit, Rane Brake Linings was successful in its maiden effort. The company has already commenced production and supply of the pads to the Indian Air Force and the Navy through HAL. Till date it has supplied HAL with 24,000 brake pads.

Currently the brake lining manufacturer is developing commercial vehicle disc pads for the European market.

Buoyed by its success with HAL, the company has also set its sights on the growing commercial aviation market.