Construction and Manufacturing

Royal NLR has experience in developing several types of Digital Twins, with partners in the aerospace components manufacturing industry, the Dutch MoD, and aircraft OEMs. To support these activities NLR leverages the availability of research facilities such as the ACM3 Smart Industry Field Lab, several fixed and rotary wings, as well as the RC glider, and unmanned research platforms. We also have a Pipistrel Velis Electro as Digital Twin platform at our disposal, equipped with relevant structural sensors and (flight) data acquisition equipment.

The NLR research infrastructure encompass a wide variety of coupon and materials testing, including inspection and calibration systems, ranging from creep and quasi-static to dynamic and high-frequency testing. We mimic aerospace, space and off-shore environments, civil and military, in order to conduct realistic testing. Our testing services include static, fatigue, and damage tolerance testing, all of which are performed in accordance with international standards or tailored to meet specific client requirements. Additionally, we execute material evaluation and qualification programmes.
We can accommodate a wide range of environmental conditions to meet your specific testing needs, including ambient, low (-55°C), cryogenic (-180°C), elevated (80°C), and high-temperature (1250°C) environments, as well as controlled humidity, corrosion, and saturation conditions.

Do you want to ensure that your flat, stiffened or curved panels or sub-components can withstand the most extreme environmental conditions and maintain their structural integrity? Unlock the full potential of your development, validation or certification plan, with NLR's expert testing solutions.
At NLR, we offer cutting-edge testing solutions that can help you achieve your goals. Our state-of-the-art facilities and expert team can simulate all kinds of load conditions, tensile and/or compressive loading, biaxial loading, cabin pressure loading, in combinations with a wide range of temperatures, extending from -180°C to 120°C, and simulate various atmospheric conditions, including dry, humid, corrosive, or saturated environments. Furthermore impacts or artificial defects can be applied or repairs can be performed. This allows you to thoroughly test your panel's performance under realistic conditions.

NLR offers comprehensive expertise in designing, testing, and manufacturing innovative space structures, including satellite backbones, instrument platforms, and launcher components. From design verification and prototype manufacturing to inspection, environmental testing, and integration of functions such as thermal management and antennas, NLR's capabilities also extend to smart structures, enabling the creation of lightweight, high-performance space systems.