Sand Erosion Wear Assessment Methods for Rotor Blades

This paper provides a summary of methods used to quantify wear on sand erosion tested samples. Typical samples include simple flat 1-inch squares and larger airfoil blade shapes. Example wear evaluation methods include mass loss, microscopy, micrometers, and optical profilometry. Control materials included titanium, steel, and polyurethane, and are presented as example Phase I flat test samples and measurements. Rationale for using each method is provided, along with advantages, disadvantages and a final assessment for use to support the Rotor Durability Technology Investment Agreement between Boeing and the Army Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (AATD). Additional methods will be discussed for more sophisticated erosion test samples, and their suitability based on sample size and complexity, including inspection methods for full scale rotor blades.