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) was completed in February 2012. The results are being 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. Beginning in FY13, the T-45 sub-systems SLAP effort will assess 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 original funding within the T-45 SLAP budget programmed for T-45 tail hook has been absorbed into the overarching SLAP effort due to the success of T-45 additional tail hook life extension efforts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2015
- Source ID
- 3182_0702207N_7_1319_PB_2015
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- Root: Depot Maintenance (NON-IF)
- Child Accomplishment: T-45 SLAP