NDT for HVOF Coated landing Gear

The effort proposed for this Phase I SBIR activity involves a feasibility study and preliminary evaluation of thermography for detecting defects in HVOF coated landing gear components. With key test data derived in Phase I, we will be able to offer recommendations for an integrated and detailed NDT process to be developed in a follow-on Phase II study. BENEFIT: Environmentally friendly High Velocity Oxygenated Fuel (HVOF) coatings for Air Force and commercial landing gear have not proven to be robust at the high stress levels under which the landing gear operates. The resulting coatings exhibit spallation and cracking which can lead to premature failure of the components. Currently, there is no process for inspecting the HVOF coating and substrate for indications of failure. Efforts proposed herein will provide data needed to evaluate and develop thermographic NDT methods for detecting cracks and defects in the coating and substrate without stripping the coating. With this information, the Air Force and eventually commercial airlines will be able to reduce maintenance cost while at the same time providing the means to improve the confidence in remaining life estimates of these components.