Nanocomposite Tribological Corrosion Resistant Coating for Robust Bearings and Gears

"Critical gears and engine bearings in our newest vertical thrust aircraft must operate with absolute reliability under high loads, high heat, corrosive salt air and intervals without lubricant. Current gear and bearing materials meet the design requirements, however, it is desirable to improve the component durability under unexpected severe operation (longer oil off) or extreme environmental (corrosive salt air)conditions. Advanced coatings possessing a combination of wear and corrosion resistance have a potential of extending component durability, and thus lowering life cycle costs. Now, a breakthrough in surface engineering technology can precisely control deposition of coatings at the level of vaporized atoms. It can deposit an atomically bonded, multiple layered, integrated coating combining different metal and ceramic materials, each with a different desired property. Engine parts with the multiplex coating(s)will be rigorously evaluated in this program for their durability and reliability under aggressive operating conditions. Such successful coatings have an enormous opportunity for future applications to a wide range of military and civilian aircraft engine components that operate in severe fretting or corrosive environment conditions.