Alternative Materials to Cu-Be for Landing Gear Bushing/Bearing Applications (15-RD-800)

ABSTRACT: CuBe 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. Thus, the objective of this project is to research and qualify substitutes for CuBe material in high load landing gear applications. As an alternative to the CuBe alloy, we propose development of Cu based binary and ternary alloys without Be. The alloy compositions will be determined from analysis and calculations of equilibrium and non-equilibrium phase diagrams using a combination of computer coupling of phase diagrams and thermochemistry as well as limited experimental data available in the open literature. Selected alloys will be fabricated and tested for mechanical and tribological properties. Sub-scale bushing tests will be conducted on selected alloys.; BENEFIT: The new environmentally friendly Cu based alloys developed in this project will replace hazardous CuBe alloy for high load landing gear applications for military airplanes. It is expected that materials proven through this effort will also be suited to commercial landing gear applications.