Supporting the Next Generation of Lightweight, High-Performance UAV Structures
The UAV market is one of the fastest growing markets across the past decade and looks set to continue to its remarkable trajectory. Some projections indicate that it could contribute £45 billion to the UK economy alone by 2030.
This rapid development is being driven by a range of cross-industry applications, with UAV technologies being utilised to transform modern warfare, offering unique tactical advantages and enhancing operational efficiency; monitoring and maintaining energy infrastructure; and revolutionising logistics and delivery services.
In this competitive and fast-moving landscape, drone manufacturers are constantly looking to push boundaries and achieve improvements in lightweighting and performance. This is where Polar Technology are ideally positioned to support, providing a range of advanced manufactured components that are enabling the next generation of UAV technology.
Aerodynamic Composite Structures and Fan Blades
Composites offer huge advantages to UAV manufacturers, because of the significant weight savings they offer, as well as superior fatigue and corrosion resistance. These are essential attributes for manufacturers looking to maximise aerodynamic efficiency, increase flight endurance, and enhance payload capacity.
Polar Technology utilise advanced composite materials to develop active aerodynamic structures, which is applicable to many blade, fan or aerofoil applications. Furthermore, Polar have partnered with Ultima Forma to develop a Leading Edge Electro-Forms (LEEF) layer that further enhances erosion, impact and corrosion resistance.
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Transmission Shaft Technology
Polar Technology are market leaders in producing lightweight, energy-efficient transmission components, suitable for actuation and power transmission systems. Key to the approach is a patented mechanical interface that removes any reliance on adhesives, and can subsequently deliver high speeds and high torques.
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Lightweight Hydrogen Cylinders
Many UAV manufacturers are exploring alternative fuels in the bid to reduce emissions, and hydrogen is front and centre of this evolution. Polar Technology specialise in lightweight hydrogen cylinders that offer a best-in-class weight efficiency and subsequently deliver a superior flight time.
The first production run of these cylinders is due this year, and they represent a key milestone in the development of Hydrogen technology, aimed specifically at the UAV market.
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Additive Manufactured Structures
Another way of making crucial weight-savings in UAV development is by utilising Additive Manufacturing techniques. This also facilitates the creation of complex shapes, with more flexibility than traditional casting methods.
Polar Technology produce DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) components made from a range of materials including Inconel, Stainless Steel and Aluminium, and then integrate those parts into wider assemblies or more complex components, combining them with our extensive machining and fabrication capabilities.
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Lightweight Fabricated Structures
Finally, Polar Technology manufacture fabricated tubular structures made from aluminium, titanium, and stainless steel. Polar are able to offer UAV manufacturers a highly accurate solution using qualified and experienced coded welders.
These materials are resistant to harsh environments and the structures can sustain extreme speeds and vibrations, making them ideally suited to the demands of the UAV market.
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If you have a question about a UAV project, and would like to speak to our team, please visit our Contact page.
