Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to recommission the Denel Helicopter Blade Spin Rig by upgrading and modernizing the facility. The goal is to restore full functionality, address obsolescence issues, and extend test capabilities to include balancing various helicopter main rotor blade types, thereby enhancing testing efficiency and accuracy.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Reviewing and proposing upgrades or changes to the existing infrastructure, including structural mounting, cable routing, lighting, ventilation, and safety systems.
• Considering retention of main dynamic components such as the DC Electric motor, main Gearbox, and Main Rotor Head, or alternatively, providing a complete new Spin Rig/Whirl Tower solution.
• Expanding blade testing capabilities to additional helicopter types: Airbus BK117, H125/AS350, and H225/SA330/AS332.
• Ensuring the upgraded system can achieve OEM-approved blade balancing results or better.
• Identifying failure modes, system operation, infrastructure compatibility, accuracy, maintenance, safety, and delivery milestones.
• Providing detailed documentation, training, and post-commissioning support.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications include:

• Upgrading or replacing control and measurement systems to accommodate multiple blade types with customizable interfaces and reports.
• Ensuring the system can test various rotor blades with appropriate attachment points and measurement parameters.
• Implementing safety features such as micro switches, emergency stops, overspeed protection, and certification by qualified inspectors.
• Designing a user-friendly Human Machine Interface (HMI) for blade balancing procedures, including measurement, adjustment, and documentation steps.
• Retaining or upgrading existing infrastructure components like motors, gearboxes, and control cabinets as cost-effective options.
• Achieving or exceeding OEM specifications for system accuracy, including blade height tracking and measurement repeatability.
• Providing calibration, maintenance, and operational documentation, along with training for operators and technicians.
• Defining a delivery schedule with milestones from order placement to final system hand-over.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder should demonstrate:

• Experience in designing, developing, and implementing helicopter blade testing and balancing systems.
• Proven capability in upgrading or building Spin Rig/Whirl Tower facilities compliant with OEM standards.
• Expertise in control systems, measurement technologies, and safety systems for high-speed rotating machinery.
• Strong project management skills to meet delivery milestones and coordinate infrastructure upgrades.
• Ability to provide comprehensive documentation, training, and post-installation support.
• Relevant OEM certifications or agreements, if applicable, to ensure system compatibility and compliance.
• Knowledge of applicable local and international safety, legal, and certification standards.