NTN-SNR is a major supplier for the propellers blade bearing. That is why NTN-SNR answered to this topic of call 12. The global strategy of the project was divided into 4 major tasks which constitute the work packages of the project (WP2 to WP5) and one work package is dedicated to the management (WP1). This project was led according to NTN-SNR usual development process for new products or R&D projects.

The goal of NTN-SNR proposal was to meet the topic manager requirements. The Propellers Blades bearings were designed, manufactured and tested (component tests are required necessary to demonstrate the behaviour with different loads cases – TRL 5 is required ) to withstand the radial load of the propeller blade load in operating condition due centrifugal forces and unbalance loads, to withstand axial and tangential loads due to aerodynamic forces on the blade and to withstand to the high temperatures.

The global coordination of the project was the responsibility of the aerospace R&D project leader. The aerospace R&D project leader was the focal point for the topic manager. He was responsible for the time schedule and for the success of the project.

The bearing designs were performed by NTN-SNR Aerospace design office using its knowledge and its experience on this type of application and so innovative solutions will be implemented in these bearings.

The bearings were manufactured according to the NTN-SNR quality process, the certified standard process and the flight test safety requirements. The industrial validation report was delivered with the bearings.

To reduce the risks linked to the chosen concepts, several specific tests were performed by the NTN-SNR test centre and by the material laboratory and by specialised vibratory.

NTN-SNR had the knowledge and the experience in design, manufacturing, testing, in certification of aircraft engine bearings and in test bench design and modification.