Helicopter Power Transmission Device Dependent on Imports..KAI Achieves Localization Success

[Financial News] KAI (Korea Aerospace Industries) successfully completed the localization development of core components of the main gearbox, the first phase task of the 'Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH-1) Performance Improvement Power Transmission Device Development Project' on the 23rd.
The first phase project (total project cost approximately 110.9 billion KRW) involves the detailed design of the main gearbox and the production of localized core components. KAI completed the localization of 33 core components of the main gearbox with support from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and an investment of about 80 billion KRW from 2021.
To complete the development, more than 200 personnel from over 10 domestic companies and research institutions were mobilized. They obtained certification for 35 special manufacturing processes and carried out component production. Manufacturing partners include Woorim PTS, EM Korea, Ilgwang Jugong, Korea Heat Treatment, Aerocotek, Samyoung Mitech, Samwoo Metal Industry, and Tesko. Testing partners include WS ENG, Korea Institute of Materials Science, and Ulsan Technopark.
Tests on components such as gears, shafts, and housings using special materials like aviation magnesium, titanium, and high-strength steel were completed. It is explained that design integrity has been secured. KAI plans to secure core technologies in the rotorcraft field and further enhance the competitiveness of domestic helicopters through the development of the improved power transmission device.
The helicopter power transmission device is a device that transmits the high-output power required for flight from the engine's high-speed rotating shaft to the main rotor and tail rotor. It is classified as one of the three core technologies of the helicopter system along with the automatic flight control system and rotor system.
KAI will develop all parts of the seven modules of the power transmission device in the second phase of the agreement signed with the Defense Technology Promotion Research Institute in 2023. They plan to produce the main gearbox and promote basic performance tests. If applied to domestic helicopters, the localized power transmission device is expected to increase operational efficiency as its product life and overhaul period are longer than existing power transmission devices.
A KAI official said, "If this project is completed, it will improve operational efficiency through domestic development of power transmission devices that are entirely dependent on imports," adding, "The technology accumulated through development can be applied to the Surion performance improvement and next-generation medium utility helicopter development projects. This will showcase the competitiveness of domestic aircraft on the international stage."


ggg@fnnews.com Kang Gugwi Reporter