At Prodigma, we are taking our support for young engineers' education and innovative projects to the next level. Our collaborations with university communities not only contribute to individual projects but also play a significant role in shaping the technological future of Turkey. In this article, we share the success story of the Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Aviation and Space Club (HUK) and their remarkable project, VEGA.

Cerrahpasa Aviation and Space Club (HUK) and the VEGA Project

Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, one of Turkey's most prestigious institutions, stands out for its achievements in science and technology. Reflecting this culture, the Aviation and Space Club (HUK) has gained national and international recognition with its VEGA Medium-Altitude Rocket.

The VEGA Project achieved significant success at the 2024 Teknofest Rocket Competition, ranking 13th in the medium-altitude category and 3rd in the high-altitude category. This innovative project is a testament to engineering excellence, standing out for its lightweight design, durability, and advanced technology.

VEGA Project and 3D Printing Technology

Prodigma played a critical role in accelerating the design process and meeting project goals by providing 3D printing solutions for the VEGA Medium-Altitude Rocket. Key advantages provided by 3D printing technologies included:

Lightweight and Durability: Components were manufactured to reduce weight while ensuring structural integrity.
High Performance: Carbon-fiber-reinforced Onyx material demonstrated exceptional strength against shocks and heat in the motor section.
Geometric Freedom: Complex parts, difficult to produce with traditional methods, were easily created thanks to the flexibility of 3D printing.
Rapid Prototyping: Designs were quickly turned into testable prototypes, saving significant time.
 

Onyx Material: The Hidden Hero of VEGA

The Onyx material used in the project stood out with its lightweight, strength, and chemical resistance. Composed of nylon reinforced with micro carbon fibers, Onyx is 1.4 times stronger than ABS and offers properties comparable to aluminum. In the VEGA Project, it performed critical functions, particularly in the motor section.
Advantages of Onyx:
•    High strength and toughness
•    Chemical resistance
•    Lightweight with an aesthetic finish
Beyond aerospace projects, Onyx finds applications across various sectors, including defense, automotive, and robotics.

Seamless Solutions with Prodigma’s Digital Platform

Prodigma’s user-friendly digital platform allows design teams to quickly upload projects, receive instant quotes, and choose the most suitable materials and manufacturing methods. This accelerates the design process and simplifies decision-making for project teams.

At Prodigma, we are more than just a manufacturing service; we are investors in Turkey’s engineering and technological future. The VEGA Project exemplifies how young engineers can develop innovative solutions and contribute to Turkey’s global competitiveness in technology.

We will continue to support young engineers to create more success stories in future projects. With 3D printing technologies and innovative materials, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of technology in Turkey.