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The F22 "Raptor" tactical fighter represents the current state of the art in combat aircraft technology with many key components manufactured using thermoplastic matrix composites by Superform USA. Driven by the need for lightweight, high strength, high toughness materials the design team worked closely with Superform to develop a range of composite components produced by techniques pioneered on the F117. Currently, components such as main landing gear doors, side array and center nose panel covers are made using diaphragmed formed thermoplastic composites. A major advantage of the process is the ability to form simpler sub components separately and then utilize the co-consolidation properties of the plastic by fusing these sub components into one larger panel. The components are completed by amorphous bonding of the outer skin and inner stiffening panel assemblies with a thermoplastic film adhesive at a press temperature of over 500 degrees F. This provides a stable, high integrity component ready for final aircraft assembly. | PROJECT LINKS AUTOMOTIVE AEROSPACE ARCHITECTURE | |||
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