In November last year, representatives from the HAECO Group attended an event to mark the 2nd anniversary of the Aviation Services Research Centre (ASRC) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). HAECO is an industry partner to ASRC, which is an applied research centre established to develop new or improved aviation services and technologies for the MRO industry.
During the event, ASRC introduced the audience to the latest Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) Aviation Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (AMRO) projects, which aim to automate and standardise maintenance processes in order to improve efficiency and overcome long-term labour shortage problems in the marketplace. The participants also discussed a wide variety of topics during a workshop.
As an ASRC member, HAESL – HAECO’s engine services facility in Hong Kong - has been closely involved with two of the centre’s projects focusing on aero engine component overhaul. The first aims to streamline fan blade leading edge restoration as part of routine engine overhaul. ASRC has developed a computer numerical control programme that works in combination with a multi-axis milling machine to shape the complex contours of aircraft engine fan blades. The system allows the machine to create virtual sketches of the fan blades, as a basis for calculating the correct amount to be milled from the leading edge in order to restore them to a serviceable standard. The second project facilitates sealing ring reformation. With operational use, aero engine sealing rings often suffer dimensional distortion and require reshaping as part of routine maintenance. ASRC has created a tailor-made device that is able to scan the distortions on the rings and automatically restore their physical dimensions. Both projects aim to improve accuracy, increase automation levels and reduce turnaround times for aero parts maintenance and hold significant potential benefits for HAESL in its future development and expansion of its technical capabilities. Along with other ITF projects currently in progress, these achievements highlight the maturity of AMRO technologies in Hong Kong.