Moscow Machine-Building Enterprise (MMP) named after V.V. Chernyshyov in cooperation with the Center of Additive Technologies of the United Engine Corporation (UEC) created the housing of the first support of the VK-1600V turboshaft engine using 3D printing technology. The technique allows to reduce the time of production preparation and also reduces the weight of parts, the press service of United Engine Corporation said.
“Additive technologies play a key role in optimizing component design and in modernizing production processes. 3D printing allows to create products of complex geometry, which are difficult to obtain by traditional methods, and obtaining a part of even a simple shape by casting, thermal or mechanical processing takes from several weeks to several months, and it is also necessary to take into account the high costs of manufacturing the required technological tooling,” in MMP commented.
In a short period of just four months, the specialists developed and fine-tuned the manufacturing process of the first engine support housing. Modern technological solutions, which are used in aviation engineering, not only accelerated the process, but also ensured the creation of lighter and stronger elements of the VK-1600V design. In addition to the support housing, MMP specialists are working on 3D printing a prototype fuel manifold for this helicopter engine.
The VK-1600V engine is designed for installation on Ka-62 medium class helicopters, the power plant is characterized by a modular design and in the future can be used in unmanned aerial vehicles or adapted for light passenger and transport aircraft. The project for the first engine support housing was awarded a diploma at the “Aircraft Builder of the Year” contest in the “Best Innovative Project” category.