Direct to Phase II Open Topic: Open Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need

The solution that this proposal offers is the implementation of GasTOPS’ commercially proven ChipCHECK system to provide at-line wear debris analysis for the MQ-9 fleet. ChipCHECK is a highly capable tool that performs quick, reliable and repeatable analysis of wear debris chip particles obtained from MCDs removed from an engine, at the flight line, in order to identify impending failures before they occur. ChipCHECK brings automated laboratory capabilities to the flight line, empowering maintainers with the ability to obtain decision grade information within minutes. The ChipCHECK analysis process utilizes Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for alloy identification and high-resolution digital imaging to locate and size particles as small as 70 microns. LIBS is a chemical analytical technology that uses short laser pulses to create micro hot-plasma ablation of a material, and then employs spectroscopic tools to analyze the target’s composition. Combining Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) with digital imaging, ChipCHECK automatically determines the alloy classification and size of each individual particle in the wear debris sample. As a result, ChipCHECK provides rapid, reliable and conclusive equipment health information to the operator.