Optimization of Turn Around SortieTime of aTypical Fighter Aircraft by Enhancement of Brake System Heat Dissipation through Forced Convection

During the landing phase of a fighter aircraft, the brake system is responsible for absorbing almost 70–80% of the aircraft's forward kinetic energy, especially in the absence of a brake parachute. The brake unit generates heat energy through frictional force between the brake discs, which then needs to be dissipated quickly to the brake system components and the surrounding environment. The heat energy from the brake discs is dissipated through various modes of heat transfer, including conduction, convection, and radiation. A faster heat dissipation rate to the environment helps to reduce the disc temperature, ensuring that the aircraft is available for the next activity. Multiple authors have conducted research to improve heat dissipation from aircraft brake units through various methodologies. This paper outlines an approach that has been explored to optimize the Turn Around Sortie (TRS) time of a typical fighter aircraft. The paper evaluates the pros and cons of all modes of heat transfer and provides details of the work carried out to improve heat dissipation through forced convection.