Reinforced CV Boot for Amphibious Vehicles - MSC P4865

The United States Marine Corps has issued a broad agency announcement as part of the Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) program soliciting proposals for the development of an improved drive axle for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) with greater durability when subjected to operation in amphibious environments. The ACV uses traditional Constant Velocity (CV) Joints on the wheel end drives. Currently, both inner and outer CV Boots develop holes and tears due to the harsh operational conditions and require excessive maintenance. Materials Sciences, LLC (MSC) and A&P Technology, Inc (A&P) intend to develop a highly durable fiber reinforced CV Boot consisting of a braided sleeve encapsulated by a high toughness polyurethane elastomer. MSC intends to prove feasibility during Phase I through materials research and development, fabrication planning, prototyping, and performing usage-representative testing using a rotating CV joint, as well as comparative coupon testing if needed.