In support of the Korean Light Utility Helicopter (KLUH) programme, our client, Hanwha Corporation, was faced with the challenge of designing and developing an innovative hydro-mechanical primary flight control actuator that, in addition to providing the design, also transferred knowledge to the client.
We were given full responsibility for the design of the tail rotor actuator and faced challenges that included the restriction of a limited space envelope with demanding performance and environmental requirements, while focusing on reducing mass, increasing service life, improving reliability and including the latest valve, bearing and sealing technology. To support the programme, we had to utilise many of our key capabilities: engineering design and analysis; CAD modelling (from concept through to detailed design); producing drawing packs for components; sub-assemblies & general assembly; structural fatigue analysis; vibration analysis; performance modelling & analysis; support to design reviews; qualification and test planning.
In addition to the design of the tail rotor actuator, we also provided technical support to the local design team on the main rotor actuator. The work was undertaken with joint integrated project teams, both in the UK and South Korea. Our tail rotor actuator design passed all the main gates (preliminary, intermediate and critical design reviews) and is now in low-rate production.
Sangjoon Park, Vice President and Head of Aerospace R&D Center at Hanwha Corporation, stated:
Stirling Dynamics is definitely one of the highest quality engineering companies we have experienced in the field of aerospace and military development. They always provide us [with] great performance and deliverables on time. Our engineering success has been continuously driven by cooperation with Stirling Dynamics.