Innovative Concepts for Ultra-light and Reliable Hydraulic Actuators
Navy SBIR FY2008.2


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.2
Topic No.: N08-119
Topic Title: Innovative Concepts for Ultra-light and Reliable Hydraulic Actuators
Proposal No.: N082-119-1005
Firm: Integran Technologies USA Inc.
2541 Appletree Dr
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15241-2587
Contact: Edward Yokley
Phone: (954) 328-3880
Web Site: www.integranusa.com
Abstract: Integran Technologies USA Inc. (Pittsburgh, PA) is pleased to provide this proposal in response to the Navy Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Request for Proposal (RFP) "N08-119: Innovative Concepts for Ultra-light and Reliable Hydraulic Actuators", to investigate the use of a novel high strength nanostructured metal (NanovateT) as a thin structural reinforcing shell on ultra-lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) actuator rods and cylinders. In the proposed project, Integran seeks to address the intrinsic deficiencies of CFRP by applying nanometal to the working surface of the CFRP actuator rods and cylinders to provide increased surface durability, wear resistance and specific strength/stiffness of the CFRP substructure at ambient and elevated temperatures, thereby enabling the use of CFRP for ultra-lightweight actuators. The high strength of the nanostructured material will allow a thin structural reinforcing coating, thus maintaining the overall lightweight nature of the component. The successful execution of this project will provide a proof-of-concept demonstration as well as baseline mechanical property data for nanometal/composite hybrid structures at a range of temperatures, thereby allowing engineering designers to incorporate the use of these structures into advanced engineering components, including lightweight actuators.
Benefits: In addition to specific application to ultra-lightweight actuators, the proposed technology has broader market potential within the commercial aerospace and defense sectors. While fiber reinforced plastics composites have incredible strength to weight characteristics, there are many potential applications which would benefit from a hard nanostructured metallic coating for wear resistance, reflectivity, EMI shielding, hardness, damage resistance, material compatibility. Additional markets which may benefit from the use of a nanometal/FRP composite include: sporting goods, defense, automotive, consumer goods and electronics.

Return