Beryllium Brake Experience on the C-5A Airplane

The critical design weight environment necessary to optimize load-carrying efficiency of the C-5A was such that breakthroughs in technology were needed. One such breakthrough was beryllium brakes.

From the discovery of beryllium in 1798 its advantages-as well as its disadvantages-were well known. These are discussed to indicate why beryllium was chosen as the brake heat sink material for the design configuration evolved. A review of current C-5A data is presented, including flight test experience, as well as expected life projection from limited normal operational experience. The re-use of beryllium elements, and cost effectiveness are also discussed.

A consideration of the future use of beryllium is indicated, with the conclusion that it will become commonplace in the next decade.