Evaluation of Isotropic SUperfinishing on a Bell Helicopter Model 427-Bull Gear

Evaluation of Isotropic Superfinishing on a Bell Helicopter Model 427 Main Rotor Gearbox

REM ist der Technologieführer im Bereich der Oberflächenbearbeitung von Metallteilen.  Als solcher verfügen wir über zahlreiche Fachartikel und Ressourcen zu den Themen Beschichtungs- und Oberflächentechnik sowie Feinbearbeitungslösungen.  Die vollständigen Ausführungen dieser Ressourcen werden auf Anfrage in englischer Sprache zur Verfügung gestellt.

By: Ryan Ehinger and Charles Kilmain Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. Fort Worth Texas

Abstract

The surface finish of a gear tooth is a critical factor in the wear, durability, noise generation, and efficiency of modern helicopter transmissions. Currently, optimized grinding and honing processes are used to improve the surface finish of both gear teeth and roller bearing races. With the promise of reduced manufacturing cost, reduced scrap, reduced noise, and improved gearbox efficiency, a new surface refinement process known as isotropic superfinishing is making its way into the aerospace industry. Isotropic superfinishing (ISF) is able to produce 2-4 μin Ra surface finishes using a combination of vibratory me­dia and surface conversion chemicals without modifying the profiles of aerospace quality ground gear teeth. This paper will outline NRTC-CRI funded testing of a Bell Model 427 main rotor gearbox with ISF processed gears. Testing performed includes thermal efficiency, gear tooth bending fatigue, acoustic, and extreme conditions.

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