Lift Fan Clutch Plate Material

RCI will scale up the low wear, high friction factor candidate clutch materials from Phase I to full scale JSF clutch disk size and perform several material optimization development cycles using full scale, full speed dynamometer testing and post test profilometry and SEM/EDS analyses. Manufacturing economic analyses will be performed in parallel with development of clutch friction disk materials. Full scale 5 plate clutch testing will be performed at Rolls Royce, Corp., Indianapolis, IN toward the end of the 2 year program. RCI's objective is to provide a JSF clutch material with twice the wear life of the current clutch while maintaining suitable static and dynamic friction factors. These objectives if achieved, will improve weapon system availability, reduce field maintenance expenses, simplify the logistical support requirements and will reduce safety hazards for maintenance personnel and pilots.