Composite Boss Technology
Abstract
This program is closely related to the Liquid Hydrogen Composite Tank program contracted under F29601-95-C-0217. This project addresses the problem of excess weights of metallic components of composite tanks. Weight reduction and cost reduction are the primary goals of the program. Composite materials are used to replace the metallic fittings normally used for boss closures. IM7/977-2 was selected as the material system for the composite boss tank. The design of an 18 inch diameter by 30 inch long composite tank was revised to incorporate the attachment method into the dome structure of the tank. This also required changes to the mandrel tooling, which was provided by NASA Marshall Spaceflight Center (Huntsville, AL). Wall thickness of the cylindrical region of the tank is 0.084 inches. Composite boss closures were designed and filament wound as a pair on specially designed and fabricated tooling. After cutting apart, the boss closures were trimmed to size and installed on the tank with radial fasteners. Omni seals and Gortex(registered) gasket materials were used to seal the boss closures in place. The tank is in inventory at the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland AFB. Tests are planned with liquid hydrogen.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA350976
Entities
People
- Brian Wilson
- David Whitehead