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How is a helicopter made? Discover Helibras, the only factory in the Southern Hemisphere

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 26/03/2024 às 18:51
How is a helicopter made? Discover Helibras, the only factory in the Southern Hemisphere
Helicopter made by Helibras Photo: Disclosure/ SCBR Defesa Nacional

Discover Helibras, the pride of Brazilian aviation: Find out how a helicopter is made at the only helicopter manufacturer in the Southern Hemisphere, located in Itajubá, MG, revealing its essential contribution to defense, public services and technological innovation in Brazil.

In the heart of Itajubá, south of Minas Gerais, is Helibras, the only helicopter manufacturer in the Southern Hemisphere, playing a crucial role in Brazilian aviation. With around 80% of helicopters in public service in Brazil coming from Helibras, the company stands out not only for its production, but also for maintenance and modernization of these essential aircraft.

The Helibras assembly line reveals a panorama of aeronautical engineering, with models such as the H130 and the robust H225, the latter serving in the three Brazilian armed forces. The Itajubá factory not only exposes the manufacturing process, but also the importance of Helibras in the national and international aeronautical industry, with the company being part of a select group of eight countries capable of carrying out a full spectrum of aeronautical operations.

How is a helicopter made?

To find out how a helicopter is made, let's start at the construction stage. design and simulation, where aerodynamics and structure are meticulously planned. Engineers use CAD software to create designs that optimize in-flight efficiency, while considering the layout of vital components such as the cabin and engine. Aerodynamics are essential to ensure controllability and stability, and the structure needs to be robust to withstand the stresses of flight.

In the component manufacturing, the airframe is constructed to be both light and strong, often employing advanced composite materials. The rotor blades, which are essential for supporting the helicopter, are designed with materials such as carbon fiber to combine strength and lightness.

Assembly and engine

During assembly and integration, the fuselage takes shape from the skeleton, with the addition of external panels, doors and windows. Mechanical systems such as the transmission, which connects the engine to the rotors, and the hydraulic and fuel systems are carefully installed, ensuring the helicopter's essential functionality.

The process of motorization involves selecting and installing engines that meet the helicopter's power needs. The transmission is crucial for transferring power from the engine to the rotors, requiring precise engineering to ensure efficiency and safety.

Technology and security at Helibras

Our avionics and electronics systems, the cockpit is equipped with advanced instruments for navigation and communication, as well as flight controls that allow the pilot to maneuver the helicopter. These systems are fundamental for the effective management of flight operations.

Rigorous testing are carried out to ensure the safety and performance of the helicopter. They include ground tests to check mechanical and electronic systems, and test flights that evaluate the helicopter's maneuverability and response under various conditions to finalize how a helicopter is made.

Do you know how Helibras came about?

Do you know how Helibras came about?

Helibras, founded in 1978 and operating in Itajubá since 1980, has produced more than 850 helicopters, contributing significantly to the technological and industrial development of Brazil. In addition to serving the domestic market, Helibras exports technology, components and helicopters, reinforcing its position as a global player.

The company not only manufactures helicopters, but also plays a vital role in public service missions and rescue operations, as seen during the Brumadinho tragedy and other natural disasters. Helibras' modernization capacity ensures that aircraft such as the Brazilian Army's Pantera are revitalized with cutting-edge technology, extending their useful life and operational efficiency.

With a force of highly skilled labor and facilities that include The only helicopter workshop in Latin America approved by Airbus, Helibras symbolizes innovation and technical competence on the global aeronautical scene. Its impact transcends the manufacture of helicopters, contributing to the sustainable development and technological sovereignty of Brazil. Helibras not only manufactures helicopters, but also shapes the future of aviation, standing out as a pillar of the Brazilian and global aviation industry.

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Rafaela Fabris

It discusses innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in CPG, it provides daily updates on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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