Pall Aerospace filtration protect our forces at the frontline

'Pall' Aerospace has always been actively involved within the UK defence industry. However, the past two years has been a particularly intense period with the exercises in Saif Saurrea heralding the onset of this activity.

The performance of the Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank engine air filters operating in the severe desert conditions witnessed in Oman emphasised that whilst engine air filters designed for operation in Europe will still provide the prime functionality for which they were designed, ie to provide the necessary high level of engine protection, the life of the filter will reduce as a direct function of the increased levels of sand drawn through the engine intakes. Modifications may be required if they are to operate in a cost-effective and efficient manner in such harsh environments for sustained periods.

Following Saif Saurrea, Pall embarked on a privately funded development programme to improve the life of the filters when challenged with high levels of sand. Part way through this programme the UK launched 'Operation Telic' and the need to improve the filters became the subject of a UOR (Urgent Operational Requirement). At the same time the supply of sand filters (also supplied by Pall Aerospace) for the air intake on the Lynx helicopter was also the subject of a UOR.

Both these projects had to be completed and delivered in extremely tight timescales demonstrating the value of the smart acquisition programme. All parties, Pall Aerospace, Vickers, GKN Westland and the Ministry of Defence worked in a constructive, open and positive atmosphere to ensure both projects were delivered on time and achieved the stated targets, despite the intense pressure of the situation.

Pall has maintained its philosophy of investing in research and development to ensure that its products remain at the leading-edge of filtration technology. This approach has resulted in a number of products that will improve the sustainability and mobility of military equipment, whilst reducing the total cost of ownership for both new and existing equipment.

One such development has enabled the UK MoD to specify regenerable CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear) filtration on the new Terrier engineering vehicle. This technology will provide protection for the crew inside the vehicle against all known chemical and biological agents, yet allow them to operate in an environment of reduced physiological burden. It will also increase the operability of the vehicles and eliminate the need for a large logistic exercise in the event of war. It helps in maintaining the UK's position as the leading nation in the field of CBRN and, with a high level of interest from foreign governments, it should also contribute to UK export sales.

Of course, new technology development is not only limited to the military sector. Pall Europe Ltd have developed products that ensure high air quality in commercial aircrafts, reduce patient trauma during operations and the subsequent hospital stay, enable precious natural resources to be re-used and provide safe drinking water in remote and deprived areas of the world.

Steve Simpson Pall Aerospace UK