Truly fixing problems, not symptoms
ACS Canada has recently obtained TCCA RDA approval for the repair of erosion damage on Kamov Ka-32 model helicopter rotor blades. Our customer, VIH Helicopters Ltd is the sole operator of this helicopter type in Canada and has found the Kamov Ka-32 a great fit in the lifting/transport market segment.
With the majority of VIH Helicopters’ operation taking place on the Canadian west coast, rain erosion of the main rotor blade abrasion strips has been a prevalent issue. Due to excessive wear, the main rotor blades would become unserviceable prior to reaching full life of 3,000 hrs.
ACS Canada was approached by VIH Helicopters with the request for a repair solution to this issue. After collecting necessary inputs and review of the existing design, The ACS Canada team designed and produced a one-piece nickel abrasion strip to replace the original segmented stainless-steel sections.
All development work was done in-house, and the project was submitted to TCCA DER for approval. This included reverse engineering of current design, new part design including plating mandrels and trim fixtures, bonding fixtures, testing and repair design compilation.