Scaling up to initial serial production levels of 36 MC-21 aircraft per annum necessitates an upgrade to production facilities at the Irkutsk Aviation Plant (IAP). In recent years, a major technical re-equipment programme has been underway, aimed at improving production efficiency and achieving the MC-21 serial production targets set by the Russian government.
Previously, the plant had already undertaken work to replace obsolete equipment, refurbish workshops, and introduce modern technologies. However, fulfilling the new requirements – increasing production volumes and mastering the machining of complex components – requires further measures, as reported in the plant’s internal newspaper, Irkutsk Aircraft Builder.
IAP is now in the final stages of the next phase of modernisation. In March, two new turning lathes arrived in Shop 227. Specialists are currently completing their connection and commissioning. The next stage is the test machining of components and bringing the equipment online.
The new lathes are equipped with an indexing chuck, allowing the workpiece to be rotated by 45 or 90 degrees. This simplifies the manufacture of complex pipe fittings – tees, elbows, crosses. These items can now be manufactured in a single set-up, reducing their manufacturing time.
The old turret lathes, which no longer met modern requirements, have been decommissioned. Preparation of the site for the new equipment was carried out by Irkut-Remstroy, while Energoсentre-Irkut provided the utilities connections. Installation of the lathes took several days, and this work was undertaken by specialists from Irkut-StankoService, coordinated by Department 309.
In addition, five Proton T250 series machines from the Perm factory AO STP PZMTS have already been installed in Shops 226 and 227. These are now operational, with a further 11 units undergoing commissioning. According to plant representative Vladimir Alekseevich, the main equipment requirements for MC-21 serial production in these shops have been met. All that remains is to commence production of the “battle” parts list. (“Battle” used here to mean “primary, essential”).
IAP expects to receive additional equipment before the end of the year. Nine milling machining centres will be delivered to Shops 201, 217 and 269. These are intended for machining titanium and steel components with dimensions of up to 500 mm. Installation will take place in the area of the former cutting section of Shop 232, where Irkut-Remstroy is already preparing the foundations.
Shop 221 will receive two multi-functional milling centres for machining aluminium alloys. Preparatory work will commence shortly. A further three high-performance turning-milling machines are planned for delivery to Shop 217 by September 2025.
Looking ahead, IAP will acquire three large-capacity machines with tables up to 6500 mm for Shop 221, six machines for machining titanium, and two high-precision turning lathes for Shop 217. This will complete the main phase of technical re-equipment on the existing footprint.
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