One of Axiom’s first large-scale Defence projects was with ASC, working on their Main Engine Bearings. 

ASC is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force, and were the first company to build submarines in Australia. Axiom Precision Manufacturing was also the first Australian manufacturer to create the Main Engine Bearings outside of Europe. 

ASC and Axiom’s collaboration on the components for the Collins Class submarines supports not only the Royal Australian Navy, but also local Australian businesses and people.

THE PROJECT

The Main Engine Bearing is a critical part of the crankshaft on diesel engines in the Collins Class submarines. These parts continue the life support of the engine, allowing them to last longer when out at sea. Each Collins Class submarine is Diesel-Electric with 3 x Hedemora V18 engines.

The manufacture of the Main Engine Bearing was a cooperative development between Axiom Precision Manufacturing and another local South Australian manufacturer, Intercast & Forge. 

Axiom’s team worked from drawings supplied by ASC to develop the tooling and manufacture of the four components. Intercast & Forge completed the castings of the raw product, and Axiom then finalised each piece on complex CNC machines. All parts were then assembled to simulate the product in position of the motor. 

Once assembled, the components were inspected, tested and underwent an even more intensive inspection process using a Co-ordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), reporting while under high pressure to simulate engine assembly conditions. This ensured the product was flawless and ready for installation. 

OUTCOMES

Despite the complexity of the project, the team at Axiom produced their signature high-quality precision results. ASC was extremely pleased with the delivery of the project and continue to engage Axiom for more quantities of the Main Engine Bearings and other projects, enabling ASC to continue their Through Life Support of the Collins Class submarines.