Laser Coating Removal from Helicopter Blades

The Navy REPTECH Program through ARL Penn State has indicated that implementation of laser coating removal technology for helicopter blades, as a cost-avoidance measure, appears feasible and cost-effective. Newly developed solid-state lasers offer the potential to perform the necessary functions if combined with a computer controlled beam-positioning and delivery system. A two phase project has been initiated to pursue this new system for the refurbishment of helicopter blades.
In Phase I, the project team will prepare a process qualification plan and equipment specification. The team will then qualify a laser coating removal by processing test

coupons using an existing low-power laser coating removal system that can reasonably be extrapolated to the higher stripping rates required for economic viability. The partners will then perform system engineering and detailed design necessary to deliver an initial prototype unit. Phase II will deliver a fully functional unit and a qualified depainting process.
 

Program Manager: Mike Gnam, (734) 995-4971, mikeg@ncms.org