Goodrich has successfully completed development of new carbon brake and boltless wheels for the US Air Force (USAF) fleet of C-130 transport aircraft.

The new C-130 boltless wheel and DURACARB carbon brake system is designed to maximise performance and reduce operating cost, providing longer life compared to steel braking systems.

The boltless aircraft wheels employ a lock-ring design, which reduce maintenance time and cost, in addition to reduced parts count, when compared to traditional bolted aircraft wheels.

The new equipment is currently being flight tested by USAF, while Goodrich’s aircraft wheels and brakes business begins production to support deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2011.