Enhanced Magnetic Seals and Installation Practices for Rotorcraft Drive Systems

Luna Innovations and its team members are implementing advanced material alternatives in traditional rotorcraft magnetic seal assemblies for direct Army platform applications. Specifically, the team is improving the mated pair combination of the carbon-graphite face seal component and the hard face magnet ring (the mated pair) to develop an enhanced carbon face seal that will enhance seal lifetime and reliability. In addition, modifications to seal installation practices are also being implemented such that improper seal component misalignment propensity is reduced and debris generation and subsequent seal contamination is lessened. These material improvements and installation modifications will lead to higher durability and lower failure rate at improved performance. The initial target platform is the Apache helicopter, although the technology will also be applicable to numerous other Army, DoD, and civilian rotorcraft. The effort will have a significant impact on contributing to the Army's Operations & Sustainment metric goals, thereby enabling the Army and DoD effort for Condition Based Maintenance practices.