Marsh Brothers Aviation (MBA), a leading manufacturer of advanced polymer seal and bearing solutions for the aviation industry, has made a significant breakthrough with its new King Air Flap Roller Bearing. This innovative product, which has received Transport Canada approval, is the first polymer bearing solution developed by Marsh Brothers for commercial aircraft. It addresses a critical maintenance issue faced by Beechcraft King Air series operators. Here, we explore the numerous advantages and benefits of adopting Marsh Brothers Aviation's self-lubricated roller.
Enhanced Safety and Reliability
One of the most significant advantages of MBA’s self-lubricated roller is the enhanced safety it offers. Traditional OEM greased needle flap rollers are prone to seizing up over time as the grease ages and stiffens. This can cause the rollers to slide instead of roll, leading to abnormal track wear and potential damage. By contrast, the self-lubricating polymer bearing from MBA eliminates the need for supplemental lubrication, ensuring that the rollers function smoothly without seizing. This translates to greater operational reliability and safety for aircraft operators.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
The self-lubricating nature of the MBA flap roller significantly reduces maintenance costs. Traditional greased bearings require regular lubrication and inspections to ensure they are functioning correctly. However, the MBA roller’s advanced polymer material, AeroTough® GF, does not require any lubrication. This eliminates the costs associated with lubricating the bearings and reduces the frequency of required maintenance checks. Additionally, the simplified single-piece design of the King Air Flap Roller Bearing makes installation easier and less time-consuming, further cutting down on labor costs.
Increased Aircraft Availability
Operators of the Beechcraft King Air series will benefit from increased aircraft availability due to the reduced maintenance requirements of MBA’s self-lubricated rollers. Unscheduled downtime for maintenance can be costly, both in terms of direct repair costs and lost revenue from grounded aircraft. By adopting MBA’s innovative solution, operators can minimize these disruptions, ensuring that their aircraft spend more time in the air and less time in the hangar.
Improved Durability and Longevity
The proprietary AeroTough® material used in MBA’s self-lubricated roller bearings offers greater durability than traditional materials like Teflon®. This material is designed to withstand the rigors of flight, providing a long-lasting solution that outperforms conventional greased metal bearings. The robustness of the AeroTough® GF thrust washer, which is an integral part of the roller and cannot be displaced, ensures that the roller remains in optimal condition for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Simplified Installation and Maintenance
MBA’s self-lubricated roller design includes a single flanged rolling element, eliminating the need for separate phenolic or steel thrust washers. This streamlined design simplifies the installation process, reducing the risk of misplaced components and making it easier for mechanics to perform on-wing installations. The integral AeroTough® GF thrust washer ensures that metal-to-metal contact damage to the sides of the tracks is prevented, further enhancing the reliability and ease of maintenance of the roller system.
Field Trial Opportunities
Several Canadian King Air operators have shown interest in adopting the MBA flap roller kits, with operators in Manitoba and Saskatchewan particularly keen on participating in field trials. This presents an opportunity for early adopters to experience the benefits of the self-lubricated rollers firsthand, potentially setting a new standard for maintenance practices within the industry. For U.S. registered King Air 200/300 Series, pending an FAA STC, the Field Approval (FAA Form 337) process may be used to secure aircraft serial number specific approval for installation of the Marsh Brothers Aviation Grease-Free flap rollers.
Marsh Brothers Aviation’s self-lubricated roller bearing represents a significant advancement in aviation maintenance technology. By improving safety, reducing maintenance costs, increasing aircraft availability, and offering enhanced durability, this innovative product provides a comprehensive solution to the longstanding issues faced by operators of the Beechcraft King Air series. The simplified installation process and the potential for widespread adoption across Canada and beyond further underscore the transformative potential of MBA’s self-lubricated roller bearing for the aviation industry.
Cover Image: AIN