Electroless Nickel-Boron Coating for Enhanced Engine Performance

Current engines used in UAV’s are useful but they are lacking in efficiency and power. A significant amount of power and efficiency loss can be traced back to losses found in the combustion chamber/hot section of the engine. The best solution is one that does not require extensive fabrication to the existing combustion chamber. It is highly unlikely that a new material will provide the bulk and surface properties required without significantly compromising functionality or cost. Mainstream believes that a Nickel Boron (Ni-B) coating is the most practical solution, because it performs just as well or better than other coatings but it is not harmful to the environment. Mainstream has identified an existing technology that can improve wear resistance, durability, piston ring blow-by, and reduce friction for components when it is applied. Mainstream will demonstrate this enhancement for various engine components in Phase I. In Phase II, Mainstream will propose to operate the enhanced engine components in a full-scale prototype. Mainstream’s innovative technology will not only be useful for the performance of Army UAV’s but also for commercial engines, turbines, and other components that would benefit from reduced friction and wear.