Advanced carbon solutions for improved aerial firefighting
A solution designed to improve the safety and performance of aerial firefighting operations in saltwater environments.
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"The C‑Tech tube structure was a key element of the new system. They delivered the strength and stiffness we needed, while the aerofoil profile provided excellent performance both in the water and in flight."
Project Overview
A solution designed to improve the safety and performance of aerial firefighting operations in saltwater environments.
Project Highlights
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Challenge 01
Corrosion
Aerial firefighting tanks are traditionally filled using hover-fill pump systems, where helicopters remain stationary over a water source while a submerged pump transfers water into the tank. While highly effective in freshwater, this method introduces significant challenges in saltwater conditions.
Rotor downwash creates heavy spray, which can be recirculated through the aircraft. Prolonged exposure to saltwater accelerates corrosion of critical components, increasing maintenance demands and risking long-term reliability.
Solution
Helitak developed an ocean scoop system, allowing helicopters to collect water while moving forward across the surface.
This approach keeps the majority of water spray behind the aircraft, significantly reducing exposure to saltwater ingestion.
A key structural element of the system is the aerofoil support tube assembly, designed and manufactured by C‑Tech.
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Project
C‑Tech partnered with Helitak to deliver a high-performance carbon fibre aerofoil tube solution, designed to meet both aerodynamic and hydrodynamic requirements.
The structure combines high stiffness and strength with a lightweight profile, ensuring reliable performance under dynamic loading during both flight and water contact. The aerofoil geometry reduces drag in the air while also supporting stable, low-resistance tracking through the water.
Manufactured to tight tolerances, the assembly integrates seamlessly into Helitak’s scoop system and performs consistently in demanding marine conditions.
The final solution delivers:
- Reduced saltwater exposure to critical aircraft systems
- Lower long-term maintenance requirements
- Improved operational efficiency in coastal firefighting environments
- A robust, lightweight structure effective in both air and water phases
This project demonstrates C‑Tech’s ability to deliver engineered composite solutions for performance-critical applications, working closely with partners to develop fit-for-purpose designs beyond standard tube supply.
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