DEVELOPMENT OF THE LAMINATED ELASTOMERIC BEARING.

Bonded metal-elastomer laminations were developed that would serve as bearings for oscillatory motions helicopter flap, drag and blade pitch hinges and that would provide adequate flexibility and fatigue life throughout the temperature range of -65F to 160F. The intent of this research was the application of current elastomers to the bearing concept that would provide 10 degrees of angular displacement throughout the specified temperature range with a torque not to exceed 100 inch-pounds while under a load of 40,000 pounds. Fatigue life was to exceed 20 million cycles. These objectives were achieved in the application of recently developed silicone rubbers.