Military Researchers Work to Keep Sand From Ruining Equipment

Besides the danger of low-visibility, sand and dust wreak havoc inside aircraft engines. As molten sand accumulates inside gas turbine engines, air flow is restricted caused loss of power. Army scientists and engineers are working to discover sandphobic coatings to save lives. (U.S. Army photo)

By Yolanda R. Arrington
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

Tiny grains of sand can wreak havoc on military engines performing vital operations in the field. As much as one-third of the 8,000 engines in the field are affected by sand. One rotor for a T-700 aviation engine costs $30,000 and its effectiveness can be greatly hampered by sand.

But, researchers are hoping to fix the problem. The U.S. Army Research Laboratory at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., has its scientists and engineers creating a coating technology designed to help prevent sand from causing damage to military equipment.

Source: Department of Defense