Composite reinforced ring gear
A hybrid composite reinforced ring gear minimizing radial deformation during high RPM conditions includes a composite backing secured to a metal rim. In use, at operating temperature the composite backing contracts while the metal rim expands thus creating a compressive stress on the metal rim and significantly reduces radial deformation due to centrifugal forces as compared to an all steel ring gear.
1. A composite reinforced ring gear, comprising:
a metal rim having a rim inner circumference and a rim outer circumference;
a set of engagement features formed on the rim inner circumference;
a composite backing positioned circumferentially around the rim outer circumference; and
a composite bonding layer disposed between the metal rim and the composite backing.
2. The composite reinforced ring gear of claim 1 , wherein the composite bonding layer comprises at least one of glass and epoxy.