Thursday, October 2, 2008
2008 R&D 100 Winner
Among the most challenging problems facing single-engine military jet maintenance is the ability to characterize the potential for seizure of the turbine’s central rotor. Thus far, the best way to learn about this bearing, which is inaccessible to direct inspection, is to examine the debris within the lubrication oil-stream of the engine. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) are the best tools, but SEMs are not available at airstrips.
Aspex Corp., Delmont, Pa., has developed an interesting solution to the problem with the JEMM Xtreme, a ruggedized deployable automated SEM which can perform the necessary compositional analysis of the individual wear fragments. To transfer the particles, magnetic chip-collecting plugs are dipped in solvent then wiped clean. Analysis is then performed as per normal SEM/EDX, except that the JEMM Xtreme is on-site and available for use in support of air combat squadrons. At less than 700 lbs., just under 38 ft3, and contained in a single case, the microscope is portable and compatible with multiple voltages.
Technology
Automated SEM
Developer
Aspex Corp.