Keywords
Citation
(2003), "Dunlop’s second-generation carbon brake for Harrier and AV-8B", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 75 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2003.12775aab.034
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2003, MCB UP Limited
Dunlop’s second-generation carbon brake for Harrier and AV-8B
Dunlop’s second-generation carbon brake for Harrier and AV-8B
Keywords: Aircraft, Military, Braking systems
A new, second-generation carbon brake unit developed by Dunlop Aerospace Braking Systems (DABS) for the US Marine Corps’ AV-8B (the American version of the Harrier) and the RAF Harrier has been accepted by the US and UK military authorities (Plate 14).
The US Marine Corps (USMC) has placed orders for a retrofit programme due to begin in July 2003. This will be followed by the RAF programme, bringing the total to an estimated 430 aircraft designated for retrofit.
Plate 14
The new brake unit is designed to increase brake life and reduce lifecycle cost. Modifications include new-technology carbon, a revised piston arrangement and a thicker pressure stator to eliminate the need for a spacer during the latter part of the brake’s life-cycle of 600 landings. The redesign also took into account improvements in the brake’s energy analysis and changes in the aircraft’s configuration, including an increased maximum takeoff weight of 32,000 IBS.
Beginning in February 2002, flight tests were conducted by both Boeing and USMC test pilots at Boeing St. Louis. Various rejected takeoff scenarios were simulated as well as slow landing full stops and rolling vertical landings. The test programme reportedly demonstrated that the new design offered a number of improvements, including smooth operation coupled with sufficient “cueing” to indicate to the pilot that the brakes and anti-skid are working.
The USMC is continuing operational testing and simulations at the Naval Aviation Warfare Center, China Lake Test Facility. In addition, brake qualification procedures are well advanced at Dunlop Aerospace Braking Systems facilities in Coventry, UK to establish the parameters for brake service life, maximum brake energy stops and other conditions.
Delivery of the modified brake kits will commence early in 2003 and a retrofit programme will be agreed upon to manage staged aircraft introductions.