T-45 SLAP

Abstract

3182: The T-45 aircraft structure is currently fatigue limited to 14,400 flight hours based on initial full-scale fatigue tests conducted from 1992-1996. This service life limit prevents the T-45 fleet from meeting Integrated Production Plan (IPP), previously Pilot Training Requirements, past 2025. Recent studies have determined that the fleet squadrons have not been flying the T-45 aircraft as aggressively as the initial fatigue studies predicted. These studies demonstrate that the 14,400 flight hour service life can likely be extended, with a Service Life Extension Program (SLEP), to 21,600 flight hours, which will support meeting IPP until 2035. A T-45 Structural Service Life Assessment Program (SLAP) is due to complete in February 2012. The results will be used to provide guidance on what structural areas to SLEP. In order for the T-45 to meet IPP until 2035, it is also necessary to assess the sub-systems of the T-45 in their ability to remain viable. The T-45 Sub-Systems SLAP is assessing the sub-system condition of the T-45 fleet in order to determine sub-system modifications and/or redesign necessary to extend the aircraft designed service life to support IPP and Naval Flight Officer Training Requirements (NTR) until 2035. This sub-system assessment will be based on the updated fleet aircraft usage spectrum and future predicted training missions of the T-45 aircraft. The assessment will address all critical sub-systems required and their ability to maintain IPP/NTR until 2035, analysis and studies will be conducted to outline improvements, assess manufacturing capabilities, prototype redesign and test of sub-systems for trainer aircraft. The T-45 aircraft is the U.S. Navy's only training aircraft capable of providing carrier capable jet training. The T-45 arrestment tail hook assembly is an integral component required to support this training capability. The T-45 tail hook assembly is a "life-limited" component which is scrapped after attaining its maximum safe life limit of 600 or 1020 arrestments (based on part number), becomes damaged, or is severely corroded. Due to Diminishing Manufacturing Sources & Material Shortages issues resulting in no current tail hook assembly manufacturer, it is necessary to design, develop, qualify and test an alternate prototype tail hook. This will allow the T-45 to remain operationally available in providing the DON with carrier capable jet training.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2013
• Source ID: 3182_0702207N_7_1319_PB_2013

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• Aerospace Engineering