Solutions for Space and Launchers

Launchers
Launching satellites into space creates the ultimate performance challenge for composite materials. In addition to the crucial weight savings, the materials also have to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. The performance requirements can be accommodated by Hexcel’s wide range of matrix systems. More . . . .


Satellites
The unique environment of outer space places rigorous demands on the materials used for construction of military and commercial satellites. Severe temperature changes can cause ordinary materials to warp, expand or contract depending on temperature. By contrast, satellites are subject to relatively little risk from collision damage.

HexPly® M18 - US; EU is used widely in Europe and is a 180 C (350 F) curing epoxy system operating at temperatures up to 170 C (340 F) and with 30 days outlife at room temperature. The system provides outstanding low moisture absorption and high strain to failure.

The HexPly® 954 family of 350° F-curing toughened cyanate resin prepregs is selected by designers and fabricators of space hardware for the low moisture absorption that improves dimensional stability and outgassing performance when compared to epoxies. Inherent toughness and micro-cracking resistance, high temperature dry and wet service, lower dielectric constants, and better radiation resistance are other performance advantages for space, radium and structural applications. Combinations of 954 resins with ultra-high modulus pitch-and PAN-based graphite fibers provide improved dimensional stability and structural performance for demanding NASA applications.

James Webb Telescope