This method is a designed to evaluate the micropitting performance of currently available and future aviation turbine oil formulations. Drawing on previously performed tests documented in AIR 6989, the method comprises of 3 rings rotating against a rotating central roller configuration using the PCS Instruments Micropitting Rig (MPR). A test profile has been developed between industry and academia that relies on standard available test specimens.
Rationale: An industry survey determined that there is concern over micropitting in aviation turbine bearings and gears. While there is no evidence that micropitting is associated with existing AS5780 qualified oil formulations it is worthwhile establishing a screening method to document qualified and new candidate formulations for micropitting performance.