Enhanced TF40B Gas Turbine Engine Design Changes to Improve Resistance to the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) Operational Environment Available to Purchase

The United States Navy Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles, under the Service Life Extension Program (SLEP), use the Enhanced TF40B (ETF40B) gas turbine engines for main propulsion and lift. These engines provide the additional engine horsepower needed under high ambient temperature conditions, have an increase in operation reliability, and use modern digital engine control equipment. During craft operations, ETF40B engines are exposed to harsh saltwater and sand environments that will cause severe engine corrosion problems if corrosion resistant design features are not utilized. Proper material selection and utilization of anti-corrosion coatings are extremely important to ensure reliability of ETF40B engines on LCAC. This paper will document and outline the Navy’s efforts to improve the ETF40B engine’s resistance to the LCAC operating environment with a focus on the following components/features: • Carbon and Graphite Free Bushing and Washer Materials for Compressor Guide Vanes; • Coatings between the Compressor Casing and Compressor Guide Vane Bushings; • Use of a Silicone Rubber Abradable Material in the First 4 Stages of the Compressor; • Use of Anti-Corrosion Coatings on all Compressor Guide Vanes and Stems.