Trelleborg launches high-load composite materials for aerospace landing gear
Hybrid, fiberglass-backed composite material recognizes the demand for lighter materials that can withstand the high loads and stresses landing gear are often subjected to.
Photo Credit: Trelleborg Sealing Solutions
Trelleborg Sealing Solutions (Trelleborg, Sweden) launches its Orkot C620 composite material, specifically developed to meet the needs of the aerospace industry, in particular the requirement for a strong and light material to withstand the high loads and stresses landing gear are subjected to.
As part of its commitment to innovation for sustainability and recognizing a demand for new materials that can support the move to lighter, more fuel-efficient aircraft, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions developed Orkot C620, as a high-load material that is an alternative to metal bearings. It reportedly gives the benefit of smaller and lighter components that provide a reduction in maximum takeoff weight and extend flying hours before maintenance.
Orkot C620 is a high-specification hybrid material that features a strong fiberglass backing, combined with a low-friction contacting surface comprised of TXM Marine (TXMM) reinforced medium weave polymer material to provide optimal, long-lasting durability with no delamination. According to the company, the properties of the different layers increase load capacity and strength, while reducing friction and wear to maximize efficiency and give a maintenance-free service life.
Moreover, Shanul Haque, product and innovations manager at Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, says Orkot C620 offers a low coefficient of friction to reduce wear and withstands high loads while minimizing stick-slip. The reduced stick-slip with low dynamic and static friction, enables high-load motions to be safer and provide smooth operation of the landing gear on both takeoff and landing.
For highly demanding applications, Orkot C620 has a high impact strength of 200 kJ/m2, making it both resilient and adaptable to enable manufacturers to design larger, stronger components. Orkot C620 has a flexural strength of 320 MPa, giving it versatility and durability. In addition, it remains flexible and elastic enough to return to its original shape to provide vibration damping.
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