High efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and decreased noise and CO₂ emissions can be achieved by the ultra-high-bypass ratio (UHBP) geared turbofan engine. The UHBP turbofan uses a planetary gear stage to decouple the fan RPM from the RPM of the turbine. However, moving parts generate friction and heat and therefore require lubrication systems. In-flight loss of lubrication could potentially lead to catastrophic damage.

The goal of LUBGEAR is to combine

• optimized gear geometry to provide low power loss conditions
• surface and material combinations providing low friction and surface treatment which can withstand off-design conditions 

Key findings:

• Gear coatings offered the highest increase in gear lifetime under loss of lubrication,
• Nitriding increased performance compared to carburizing,
• Superfinishing might have negative impact on LOL performance.

ADTs role in LUBGEAR:

• Elaboration of manufacturing plans and specification
• Analysis of results related to the manufacturing of gears
• Evaluation of results related to manufacturing, aviation operation and certification
• Overview of potential uses of project results, risk assessment, identification of market barriers and contact with potential users
• Dissemination activities (workshops, conference presentations)

LUBGEARs consortium consist of five strategic industrial and university partners who bring together their expertise in engineering, tribology, mechanics, and advanced chemistry.

https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101007713