Togliatti State University (TSU) has developed an engine design for drones with increased specific power and reduced mass. The key idea is the extensive use of magnesium alloys in the design; these metals will help reduce the unit's mass.
Rector Mikhail Krishtal noted that the main global trend in engine building is the increase in power per unit of mass, where the competition is already for grams. The use of magnesium in pistons, cylinders, connecting rods, and the crankcase allows for a reduction in engine mass by approximately 20%.
By increasing the efficiency of the working process in the combustion chamber, it is possible to further increase the engine's power and fuel efficiency.
The university has already registered patents for heat-resistant and fire-resistant magnesium alloys, as well as technologies for their processing, ensuring strength and resistance to corrosion and wear.
The engine developers believe that with mass production, such solutions can compete with global counterparts, and in the future, surpass them in terms of overall characteristics.
