Non Line of Sight Chrome Alternatives for High Strength Steel Substrates
ES3, Clearfield Utah
David Frederick
417th SCMS/GUEA, Hill AFB Utah
Abstract
The United States Air Force (USAF) has been implementing HVOF thermal spray coatings for the replacement of Electrolytic Hard Chrome (EHC) on HSS landing gear line of sight applications (ODs) for several years. However, landing gear components still use EHC on non-line of sight areas and are in need of technology which will replace EHC for this application. ES3 successfully completed a Phase I feasibility study for USAF that demonstrated the ability to apply coatings to non-line of sight surfaces of HSS landing gear components. ES3 in conjunction with USAF Landing Gear Systems Engineering located at Hill AFB Utah is currently working a Phase II continuation focusing on applying coatings via HVOF ID and Magnetron Sputter ion vapor deposition. Material test data and recommendations for use are detailed in this paper.