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Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) of Silicon Nitride Rolling Elements for Bearings

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Air Force
Contract: FA8650-09-M-2991
Agency Tracking Number: F083-109-0909
Amount: $100,000.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: AF083-109
Solicitation Number: 2008.3
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2008
Award Year: 2009
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2009-03-13
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2009-12-13
Small Business Information
1570 Pacheco Street, Suite E-11
Santa Fe, NM 87505
United States
DUNS: 153579891
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Kristen Peterson
 President
 (505) 984-1322
 dyuhas@imsysinc.com
Business Contact
 Alan Stanton
Title: Vice President
Phone: (505) 984-1322
Email: myuhas@imsysinc.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

Hybrid silicon nitride ceramic rolling element/metal ring bearing technology is a valid candidate to meet the high performance requirements of gas turbine aircraft engines and hybrid bearings are beginning to be introduced into engines aboard aircraft.  However, success in these demanding applications requires the development of a reliable, high throughput non-destructive evaluation (NDE) method that can offer 100% inspection of each ceramic rolling element at manufacturing and maintenance facilities.  Southwest Sciences proposes an innovative optical NDE method that will provide automated, real time and reliable detection of surface and subsurface defects that can compromise bearing performance and operational safety.  The method will meet the detection and throughput criteria specified by the Air Force. BENEFIT: The proposed optical NDE method will improve the cost effectiveness of hybrid bearing technology by reducing the inspection time and cost. Operational perfomance and safety of engines and turbines incorporating these bearings will be improved.  Military and commercial aircraft engine manufacturers, ceramic bearing manufacturers, and the industrial gas turbine industry will benefit from the technology developed under this SBIR project.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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