JG-PP partnered with the DoD's ESTCP, the HCAT and the OEMs to demonstrate/validate HVOF thermal spray coatings.

The goal of ESTCP is to demonstrate and validate promising, innovative technologies/processes/materials that target the DoD's most urgent environmental needs. By use of a coordinated effort, ESTCP advances can lead to successful JG-PP technology transitions that will provide cost effective, environmental technology solutions for both the DoD and the U.S. industrial base. Visit the ESTCP website for additional information on the project's purpose, description, and benefits.

The primary objective of the this project was to replace electrolytic hard chromium (EHC) plating operations with HVOF coatings on the USAF and USN aircraft flight control and utility hydraulic actuators. Actuator OEMs included Parker Hannifin, Moog, TRW, Honeywell, Dowty, B.F. Goodrich Corporation, Hamilton Sundstrand, Eaton (Aeroquip) Sargent Controls, Arkwin, Kaiser Fluid Technologies, and HR Textron. Aircraft Manufacturers include The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin, Northrop-Grumman, Sikorsky and Bell Helicopter. The DoD depot leads include OC-ALC, OO-ALC, FRC-E (fka NADEP Cherry Point, and FRC-SE (fka NADEP Jacksonville, FRC-SW (fka NADEP North Island).

Test results showed that performance of HVOF coatings tungsten carbide cobalt chromium (Wc/10Co4Cr) and Tri-chromium cabide/nickel chromium (Cr3C2/80Ni20Cr) performed as well as or better than those with EHC coated rods, with less leakage and lower wear of both rod and seal.

This technology will result in the elimination of hexavalent chromium mist emissions and reduced toxic waste disposal that allow a safer working environment during component maintenance at Hamilton Sundstrand, FRC-E Cherry Point, and WR-ALC.

Overall, actuators with HVOF-coated rods with Wc/10Co4Cr or Cr3C2/80Ni20Cr, were found to perform as well as or better than those with EHC-coated rods, with less leakage and lower wear of both rod and seal (see final report for details).

Additional information about this project is available on the HCAT website.

This site last updated February 28, 2008.