Alternative Materials to Cu-Be for Landing Gear Bushing/Bearing Applications (16-RD-885)

Cu-Be alloy is the material of choice for highly wear resistant, high strength bushing material utilized frequently in landing gear applications. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists beryllium (Be) as hazardous with inhalation of Be-containing particulate leading to inflammation of the lungs and chronic beryllium disease and lesion development in the lungs with long-term exposure. The objective of this project is to research and qualify substitutes for CuBe material in high load landing gear applications. In Phase I, we developed Cu-based binary and ternary alloys without Be. In Phase II, we will optimize alloy compositions through thermodynamic modeling. Further optimizations of mechanical and tribological properties will be done by varying thermomechanical processing and heat treatment conditions. Bulk quantities of optimized alloys will be prepared and baseline mechanical, tribological and sub-scale bushing tests will be conducted. A technology transition plan will be developed for replacement of Cu-Be alloys through discussion with various stakeholders such as Air Force Logistic Centers, Air Force Research Laboratories and landing gear manufacturers.