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However, with great power comes great responsibility, and the F-18’s wheels and tires are some of the most critical components of the aircraft. These components must bear the weight of the aircraft during takeoff and landing, withstand the stresses of high-speed maneuvers, and endure the punishing conditions of combat operations.

The mechanical load experienced by the F-18’s wheels can be immense, especially during landing. When the aircraft touches down on the runway, the wheels must absorb the full weight of the aircraft, which can be many tons depending on the fuel and payload. This sudden impact can create tremendous forces that can damage the wheels .

Furthermore, during takeoff and landing, the wheels must also rotate at high speeds, creating additional wear and tear on the components. The wheels must be able to withstand the friction and heat generated by contact with the runway surface and the rapid acceleration and deceleration of the aircraft.

To meet these demanding requirements, the F-18’s wheels are designed and manufactured with the highest quality materials and manufacturing processes. The wheels are made of forged aluminum alloy and equipped with reinforced carbon brakes to provide excellent stopping power.

Additionally, the F-18’s wheels are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure their continued reliability and performance. During routine maintenance, the wheels are checked for any signs of wear or damage and are replaced as needed to prevent failure in flight.

In conclusion, the mechanical load and wear experienced by the F-18’s wheels during operation are significant, but the aircraft is designed and built to withstand these demands. Through careful design, high-quality materials, and regular maintenance, the F-18’s wheels are able to deliver outstanding performance in even the toughest conditions, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our military forces.

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But in the most extreme cases the bearing can fail in a destructive manner leading to damage of the wheel hub. This damage is the result of the steel bearing digging into the aluminum wheel hub. When this occurs a new bearing cannot be inserted and the wheel is often condemned.

The solution is the subject repair.

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Repair Steps

1. A lathe is used to remove the damaged material from the shell hub
   • Both the inboard and outboard hubs may be repaired
2. The hub is built back up to slightly over nominal dimensions
   • Build up is performed with Inovati’s Kinetic Metallization Equipment
   • The build up material is an Inovati’s Al-Trans® 70-52-85, a proprietary Engineered Metal Matrix Composite (EMMC)
3. Final machining is carried out on a lathe
4. Wheel bearings and seals are reinserted
5. Wheel returns to service.
6. Repair can be reapplied for future damage

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