Aerospace composites are composite materials designed to accommodate the unique needs of the aerospace industry. Most of them are fiber-based composites that combine some sort of fiber with a resin matrix. Aerospace relies on three fibers in particular.
Without these composites, space travel would be much more difficult. Commercial aircraft would be limited in terms of both passenger and freight volume. Even military aircraft would suffer in both performance and reliability.
The dictionary definition of the word ‘composite’ covers all sorts of products made from two or more materials that, when combined, improve the overall properties of each one. Based on that definition, a countertop made from fiberboard and a laminate sheet is considered a composite. Manufactured woods of all sorts are composites.
Aerospace manufacturing relies heavily on fiber and resin composites. These are some of the same materials you might find in sporting goods, electronics, building products, and more. Fibers are chosen for their reinforcing capabilities while resin matrices contribute to rigidity and form.
So, what are the three primary fibers utilized in aerospace composites? They are carbon fiber, glass fiber, and aramid (Kevlar) fiber. Each of the three offers unique properties but make it invaluable to aerospace applications. Let us look at each one in a bit more detail.
Carbon fiber is the most widely used fiber in high-performance aerospace applications. The fibers themselves start out as carbon molecules that are bonded into long chains and then spun together to make fibers. The fibers are mixed with different types of resins to create what are known as carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs).
Carbon fiber’s most attractive properties for aerospace include:
Incidentally, consumer manufacturing makes heavy use of carbon fiber as well. That’s because CFRPs are both lightweight and incredibly durable.
Also known as fiberglass, glass fibers are among the most common reinforcements in end-market applications. Glass fiber is a good option for aerospace components that don’t have to meet high-performance requirements. It is appreciated for aerospace manufacturing due to the following characteristics:
Don’t underestimate the cost effectiveness of glass fiber. Where manufacturers are willing to spend extra on carbon fiber to gain more structural integrity, they are also more than happy to save money by opting for glass fiber when structural demands aren’t as high.
The newest kid on the aerospace composites block is aramid fiber. It is easily recognized by its golden-yellow color. It’s used extensively in aerospace, particularly in military applications due to what it offers. Here are the unique properties that make aramid fiber so important to aerospace manufacturing:
Kevlar’s superiority in terms of energy absorption and impact resistance make it a preferred material for military aircraft. Outside of aerospace applications, aramid fiber is a good choice for bulletproof vests, protective equipment and clothing, high impact sporting goods, racing equipment, and so much more.
Aerospace composites are a big part of what we do here at Aerodine. Needless to say, we have the composites you need for your aerospace manufacturing applications. Why not get in touch with us before you start your next project?
We offer carbon, glass, and aramid fiber products built around your unique specifications. Our aerospace composites are more than capable of getting the job done.
