M. Shepard, Wright Patterson AFB, WPAFB, OH

Summary:

To date, the United States Air Force is the largest end-user of advanced component surface treatments. Laser shock processing (LSP) is in successful day-to-day service and production for several USAF engine lines. In these currently fielded applications LSP has yielded substantial increases in foreign object damage tolerance along with associated increases in safety. Other processes, such as Low Plasticity Burnishing (LPB) are in an advanced stage of development and may be fielded shortly.

The history and current application of advanced component surface treatments for US Air Force applications will be reviewed. Current and future USAF applications of laser shock processing and other surface treatments will be reviewed.