Engineers from the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) have developed a unique portable complex for the rapid restoration of composite parts of MC-21 aircraft and other aircraft.
The new equipment, unofficially named the "repair suitcase," allows for the repair of structural damage directly at the site of operation — on the wing, fuselage, or in aggregate compartments.
Currently, MAI is testing the methodology, conducting test repairs of more than 100 panels made of composite materials with subsequent strength studies. X-ray tomography is used for quality control, which allows detecting discontinuities or delaminations.
The portable device weighs about 10 kilograms and operates from a regular electrical network, making it convenient for on-site work. The complex automatically creates controlled conditions — pressure and temperature-time regime — necessary for curing the composite закладки applied to the damaged area.
This technology eliminates the need for drilling holes, which cause stress concentration and accelerated destruction of the structure. As a result, the repair becomes not only faster but also safer for the aircraft structure.
The MAI development will significantly reduce maintenance time and increase the efficiency of aircraft restoration, speeding up their return to service after damage from impacts, hail, or fatigue cracks.
Earlier www1.ru reported that "ODK-Saturn" has modernized production for PD-8 and SaM146 engines.