Performance versus weight is a fundamental consideration in the aviation industry. Engineers consistently seek lightweight solutions for hardcore problems, and fabrics have been a part of that interplay since the Wright brothers used cotton-wrapped wings in 1903. We’ve come a long way from external aircraft fabric covering. However, material innovations continue to ensure a central role for high-performance coated fabrics in aeronautic design.
Key Materials
Silicone Coated Fabrics
Silicone coated fabrics are highly valued in aerospace due to their robust properties:
- Temperature Resistance: These fabrics can endure extreme temperatures without compromising their integrity, making them ideal for various high-stress aircraft components.
- Chemical Resistance: They resist chemicals, oils, and solvents, which is essential for standing up to the harsh substances often encountered during aircraft maintenance.
- Weather Resistance: Their ability to perform well in outdoor environments and resist UV radiation makes them perfect for external aircraft parts.
Silicone coated fabrics are commonly used in applications such as spacecraft airbags, aircraft cargo covers, insulation pads, and engine covers.
Polyurethane (PU) Coated Fabrics
Polyurethane-coated fabrics offer a versatile combination of durability and flexibility, making them suitable for various aerospace applications:
- Water Resistance: PU coatings provide excellent protection against rain and moisture, ensuring that critical components remain unaffected by water exposure.
- Flexibility: More flexible than some other coated fabrics, PU fabrics are well-suited for applications that require movement and adaptability.
- Breathability: Compared to vinyl, PU-coated fabrics offer better breathability, which can enhance comfort and functionality in diverse environmental conditions.
Specialized Coatings
Some coated fabrics are specifically engineered for aviation applications, offering specialized features tailored to the industry’s needs:
- ARMATEX® SF2 12-NF: This fabric is used for flexible cargo containers, pallet covers, smoke curtains, and cargo liners, helping to contain smoke and fire in cargo bays.
- ARMATEX® SF 37 Jetstar: Designed for folding canopies on passenger boarding bridges, this fabric provides high resistance to flexural stress, abrasion, and weather.
- ARMATEX® NF 14 Cargo Tex: A fire-resistant fabric used for smoke curtains and liner fabric in the cargo bays of commercial and cargo aircraft.
Applications in Aviation
Coated fabrics serve a wide array of purposes in aviation, including:
- Sound Insulation: Used to dampen noise and improve passenger comfort.
- Back Panels for Luggage Bins: Providing durability and protection for storage areas.
- Aircraft Loading Walkways: Ensuring safe and secure boarding for passengers.
- Insulation Blankets: Vital for thermal management across various aircraft components.
- Smoke Seals: Enhancing fire safety by containing smoke and preventing its spread.
- Cable Covers and Sleeves: Protecting electrical systems from environmental hazards.
- Engine and Plenum Seals: Offering high resistance to extreme conditions in engine compartments.
- Firewall Blankets: Serving as barriers to protect against the spread of fire and heat.
Interested in Coated Fabrics?
Coated fabrics are integral to the aviation industry, offering a range of benefits that enhance the safety, performance, and durability of aircraft. From silicone-coated fabrics that provide chemical and heat resistance to specialized fabrics designed for specific aviation needs, these materials ensure that the demanding standards of aviation are met. As advancements continue in fabric technology, we can expect even greater innovations that will further elevate safety and efficiency standards in the skies.
Ready to elevate your aerospace applications with industry-leading coated fabrics? At Mid-Mountain Materials, Inc., we specialize in delivering high-performance solutions tailored to meet the demanding requirements of the aviation industry. Contact us today to explore how our innovative coated fabrics can enhance your next project. Let’s soar to new heights together!
