High-Temperature Lubricant

The Short Take-Off Vertical Landing (STOVL) version of Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) employs a unique propulsion system utilizing a three bearing swivel duct (3-BSD) to direct the thrust of the engine exhaust. The 3-BSD operates at high temperatures and incorporates large moving parts. The life cycle of the 3-BSD depends directly upon the reliability of the lubricant used in the mechanical components. This lubricant will greatly affect how well the 3-BSD will be able to perform during operation. The 3-BSD requires a lubricant that can endure extreme temperatures and remain chemically stable with no performance degradation for the life of the three-bearing swivel duct, approximately 4,000 hours. The lubricant must also allow easy movement of the 3-BSD throughout its full temperature operating range of roughly -40°F to +625°F. Current lubricants being considered for use in the 3-BSD mechanical components can not maintain viscosity throughout the entire range of operation. Under the Phase I program, METSS investigated the technical feasibility of developing new high temperature lubricants for the 3-BSD by evaluating a number of candidates for their antiwear properties, volatility, rust protection, thermal stability and corrosivity, and low temperature properties. Under the proposed Phase II program, METSS will optimize the performance of these new materials with regard to these properties in order to develop an advanced lubricant capable of maintaining its properties throughout the wide range of operating temperatures through which the 3-BSD is required to operate. The Phase II efforts will clearly define and support a viable path for technology commercialization and field implementation.