Coatings for electrical Conductivity of FOGV´s

Important results from the project

The possibility of using an electrically conductive coating for earthing on fan rails of composite material has been investigated. Relevant coatings have been inventoried and the most promising have been coated on sample coupons. These have then been analyzed for electrical and mechanical properties. Metal layers such as copper and nickel have good electrical properties, but it is a challenge to get good adhesion to composite materials. Conductive paints have much poorer conductivity while the adhesion is good. If the combined properties meet the requirements remains to be seen.

Expected long term effects

Copper-nickel metal layers made by electroplating have, as expected, shown sufficient electrical conductivity, but the adhesion needs to be improved, possibly by grinding / roughening the composite surface. Conductive paints probably do not have good enough conductivity for the investigated application but may possibly be useful for other applications. If a good solution could be achieved, it would lead to large cost savings and the opportunity to avoid other traditional complicated solutions in the manufacture of composite guide rails.

Approach and implementation

GKN develops and manufactures lightweight, cost-effective components for aircraft engines. They are product owners and compile specifications. Crescocito supplies advanced surface treatment processes. RISE IVF has extensive experience in surface treatment and lightweight projects. The project group was well composed and had regular meetings to discuss results and activities. GKN produced sample materials that were surface-treated by Crescocito or by external companies. The samples were then analyzed by RISE IVF for relevant electrical and mechanical properties.