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	Research is underway to determine surface mobility requirements for extraterrestial vehicles. + Learn More...		The Tribology & Mechanical Components Branch is comprised of over 40 personnel conducting research and development in the areas of tribology (i.e. lubrication & wear) and mechanical components for current and future aerospace systems. Research efforts include advanced mechanical drive system concepts, gear dynamics and durability, Oil-Free turbomachinery, highly efficient turbine seals, thermal barrier and structural seals, habitat seals for space structures, terramechanics for lunar surface mobility, space systems lubrication, and space mechanisms. Fundamental as well as application specific research is pursued as needed to advance NASA programmatic and technological goals. Successful Arc Jet Test of CEV Heat Shield-to-back Shell Seal Design The seal comprises an outer hybrid thermal barrier designed to resist the extreme temperatures of reentry. + Read more... Spiral Orbit Tribometry A method of tribometry that relies on an aspect of the motion of a rolling ball that has come to be known as Spiral Orbit Tribometry. + Read more... PM304 Success Story Companies manufacture and utilize bearings made of PM304 oil-free lubricant material. + Read more... View Highlights Archive... Aerospace Mechanism Workshop The symposium is held in even-numbered years, hosted by NASA centers on a rotating basis. The next Aerospace Mechanisms Symposium will be in May 2012 hosted by the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. + Learn more NOTE CHANGE: NASA Seals and Secondary Flows Symposium November 29, 2011 Open to OEM'S and vendors U.S. citizens and permanent legal residents (green card holders) only Location Ohio Aerospace Institute Directions/Maps GRC (Google Maps) Map to GRC (PDF) Local food/lodging (PDF) Download Workshop Papers
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