Silicone has many wonderful qualities, not the least of which is its thermal stability, which means this material is able to withstand extreme temperatures while maintaining flexibility. This makes it the perfect material to work with in the aerospace industry. Here are some other reasons why it’s ideal for aerospace applications:
- Resists acids, bases, chemicals, oil, water, fungus
- Low outgassing
- Repels flames
- Low chemical reactivity
- Electrical insulation
- Moldable into custom shapes
For these reasons and more, silicone makes for the perfect sealing material for a variety of applications.
Aerospace Applications
From main cabins and cockpits to engines and windows, silicone seals are necessary in all components of an aircraft. Safety is the main goal of all aircraft models, which means all components must be adequately protected from extreme weather conditions and high altitudes. Here are some of the most common places you will find silicone:
- Instrumental seals and electrical equipment in cockpit
- Lighting, overhead bins and window seals in cabin
- Engine gaskets, gas turbine seals, molded seals
- Door, outer windows and cargo seals
- Tail, wings and sealant hydraulic seals
All aircraft are subjected to a variety of challenges, from high speeds and altitudes to the shock of landing, all of which lead to lots of loud noises and vibrations. Silicone can cushion vibration and excessive noise so passengers and crew feel comfortable and safe.
Silicone is used in much more than planes — you’ll also find them in space capsules. Silicone protects such craft from dangerous and challenging outside forces. This material can protect against extreme temperature and provide shock absorption, particularly during liftoff and landing.
Silicone is a must when it comes to handling powerful engines, landings and high speeds, bringing exceptional anti-vibration and noise reduction properties. Silicone can be molded into the smallest of components to fit tiny gaps so that all the parts of a piece of equipment are protected from vibration inherent in air travel, such as LED lights, overhead bins, vent ducts, hatches, and entertainment systems.
In an industry where passenger safety is of the highest importance, all materials used must be flame retardant. Silicone, with its natural flame-retardant properties, gives off low smoke and toxic gas if the aircraft were to catch on fire. Electrical components within the cockpit require silicone to seal instrument panels, protect printed circuit boards from extreme altitude changes and moisture, and protect wires from the buildup of dust or ice that could threaten the inner workings of a plane or other aircraft.
As you can see, silicone is the perfect material for use in the construction of aircraft and space craft of any kind.
Contact Si-Tech
If you’re in the aerospace industry and need versatile silicone products, please contact us today at 757-887-8488. We work frequently with clients in the aerospace business.
