Finite Element Analysis and Design Improvement of Aerospace Composite Hinges

Abstract

Hinges are the most commonly used mechanical bearings to connect 2 objects for relative rotational motion. Modern day aerospace hinges are generally made using either Aluminum, Steel or bronze. The study analyzes the use of composite material as an alternative to traditional materials for manufacturing these hinges. The research is focused on the Finite element Analysis of a composite hinge as well as an aluminum hinge. The load capacity of both the types of hinges are compared. To improve the design of the composite hinge, a combination of composite material and aluminum is used to model a hybrid hinge design. The load capacity of this hybrid hinge is compared to that of an aluminum hinge. The research also talks about the use of solid lubricants as an alternative to traditional wet lubricants. This includes the different varieties of solid lubricants, their properties and their usage in different operating conditions.