A recent industry meeting was convened by UEC-Service and Rostec’s Scientific Council. The event, held in June, brought together experts to deliberate on the most advanced technologies for repairing advanced aircraft engines, with a particular emphasis on the PD-14 and PD-8 gas turbine models. In this meeting, Russia underscored its efforts to improve its domestic aviation capabilities.
UEC-Service is a company that specializes in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of gas turbine engines in a variety of sectors, such as power generation and aviation. The organization’s objective is to guarantee the optimal performance and longevity of engines by offering comprehensive after-sales support, including technical assistance, modernization services, spare parts provision, and advanced repair technologies.
The event was attended by prominent individuals from a variety of research institutes and divisions of the United Engine Corporation (UEC). The focus of the discussions was the integration of modern equipment and the development of innovative strategies to extend the lifespan of engines, such as making use of advanced materials and robotics. The participants identified several priorities for future development, including the development of specialized repair materials, the analysis of component wear patterns, and the training of technicians to operate new technological equipment.
The introduction of robotic systems for diagnostics and assembly was the primary focus of a substantial portion of the event, which would significantly enhance the efficiency of maintenance operations. The experts also defined practical steps for the introduction of new restoration methods for gas turbine engine components, with the objective of improving the reliability of both aviation and industrial equipment.
The technical discussions addressed a variety of engine maintenance topics, with a particular focus on the repair and replacement of both metallic and ceramic seals and the techniques for repairing turbine blades. The development of standardized repair procedures and methodologies, which included the integration of robotic technologies when appropriate, was another critical subject.
The development of next-generation engines, such as the PD-14 and PD-8, resulted in advances in technologies that were previously unused, as emphasized by Yuri Shmotin, UEC’s Chief Designer. Ultimately, the efficiency and service life of existing engines is enhanced through the application of this expertise to enhance repair procedures.
The company stated its intention to establish stringent repair standards, implement innovative maintenance techniques, and offer specialized training for turbine unit repairs. The objective of these initiatives is to improve the overall quality of maintenance procedures while simultaneously guaranteeing the safety and reliability of gas turbine engines.
Innovative materials and repair techniques were demonstrated by research institutions, such as the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Aviation Materials (VIAM) and St. Petersburg State Marine Technical University. It is anticipated that these developments will decrease the cost of maintenance for customers, while simultaneously increasing the profitability of UEC and enabling the allocation of additional resources to the development of new engines.
UEC-Service implemented advanced techniques for the removal and restoration of coatings, including innovative methods such as the repair of perforated components using additive manufacturing technologies. These advancements represent a significant advancement in the capabilities of aviation maintenance.
Modern repair technology has been significantly enhanced as a result of the collaboration between UEC and research institutions. It is anticipated that the aviation maintenance and gas transportation sectors will be significantly impacted by the new materials and methods that have been proposed.
In a related development, the UEC-STAR facility in Perm will shortly commence construction of a new testing facility for PD-8 and PD-14 engine components. This contemporary facility will evaluate hydromechanical components for a variety of engines, including the PS-90A. The necessity to augment testing capabilities and expand production capacity is reflected in the proposed 4,355-square-meter complex.
The primary objective of UEC-STAR, a critical manufacturing and testing facility, is to manufacture and assess gas turbine engines and components for industrial and aviation applications. The company is instrumental in the modernization of testing capabilities and the expansion of production capacity for engines such as the PD-8 and PD-14.
The company is a leader in the development and maintenance of fuel supply and control systems for a variety of gas turbine engines, which are used in airborne, ground-based, and marine applications.
UEC-STAR has been conducting a comprehensive modernization initiative since 2020, with an emphasis on the development of new facilities that are equipped with the most advanced technology. The installation of contemporary test benches for a variety of control systems (like SAU-8, SAU-14, and SAU-90) is a critical component of this enhancement. These systems are responsible for the management of critical engine operations, including fuel supply and power output.
The facility’s expansion plans involve the development of new test stands and the enhancement of the testing infrastructure, which will enhance the quality of the product and the efficiency of production processes. The objective of these developments is to preserve the organization’s competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
In the current competitive aviation market, these technical enhancements and new facilities are essential for enhancing product quality and increasing production capacity, according to Sergey Popov, the plant’s managing director.
The new testing facility is not only a symbol of technological advancement but also a strategic instrument for the enhancement of production standards. This advancement will allow UEC-STAR to satisfy the increasing demands of its customers and potentially access new markets with products that are more competitive and of higher quality.
The improved capabilities will fortify the partnership with UEC-Perm Motors, facilitating the assembly of engines for contemporary Russian aircraft, such as the MC-21, SJ-100, and Tu-214. This will represent a substantial advancement for the domestic aviation industry of Russia.