Durable, Low-Cost, SiC-Based Ceramic Matrix Composite Lift Fan Clutch Plate

Starfire Systems, a developer and supplier of silicon carbide (SiC) pre-ceramic polymer technology, and Goodrich Corporation, a recognized leader in the development and manufacture of friction materials and ceramic composites, will leverage the results ofrecent ceramic matrix composite (CMC) friction material development programs to support the development of a low cost SiC based CMC friction material for the JSF lift fan clutch plate. The program goal is to develop an SiC clutch plate capable of 4500engagements (3X improvement) in the JSF lift fan application. The team will leverage experience from aircraft (CCAB) and auto racing programs (Formula 1) to select a minimum of three candidate SiC CMC friction couples for feasibility testing on a screeningdynamometer for direct comparison to a carbon-carbon baseline. A base set of CMC friction formulas including modified carbon-carbon, fabric and felt preforms will be evaluated. The SiC matrix will be tailored to achieve maximum durability throughvariations in processing conditions and the addition of stabilizing elements such as zirconium. To support broader commercialization by accelerating the prototyping process, the team will review historical CMC friction data to create a methodology forrapidly selecting friction material formulas for any generic friction application.