New equipment has been launched in the workshop for the manufacture of rubber products and composite materials at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aviation Plant (KnAAZ) — a vacuum furnace for polymerization. This is part of a large-scale program of reconstruction and technical re-equipment of production, the UAC reported.
Test trials were conducted at the end of January. Following their results, the equipment was refined together with the supplier.
During the installation process, we identified some design flaws. Together with the equipment supplier, we promptly corrected them, essentially modernizing the furnace. We have already welded samples and "combat" parts, confirming the quality of manufacture according to the technical processes," said Evgeny Bardin, head of the workshop.
The new furnace operates fully automatically. Polymerization proceeds in several stages: heating to 125°C to form the part, then raising to 180°C, holding, and cooling. The output is finished plastic. The equipment allows manufacturing up to 10 products simultaneously.
There are three autoclaves in the workshop. The newest of them was purchased in 2004, the other two have been operating since Soviet times. They have been modernized more than once, but the load is growing, and any breakdown threatens to stop production. The new furnace will back up the main capacities and allow for the calm updating of old machines.
The first autoclave will be completely overhauled: only the body will be left from it. Everything will be replaced — plumbing, electrics, vacuum and pressure systems. The reconstruction is planned to be completed by the end of the year.