Ceramic Matrix Composites for High-Temp Aerospace Applications
Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are a specialty at Axiom Materials. These space-age composites go where alloys and resin-based composites simply cannot. And the more we learn about them, the more they are revolutionizing high-temperature aerospace applications. They are crucial in manufacturing some of the most critical components in air and spacecraft.
CMCs are a category of composites manufactured by combining ceramic fibers with a ceramic matrix. A typical example is silicon carbide (SiC) fibers embedded in a SiC matrix to create a material with remarkable performance advantages. Such materials are commonly found within the aerospace industry.
Impressive Temperature Resistance
One of the biggest advantages of the CMC is its impressive temperature resistance. The best CMCs can easily handle temperatures above 2370°F (1300°C). The best conventional metal superalloys do not even come close.
Such high-temperature resistance allows engineers to design components like nozzles and combustor liners that can operate at extremely high temperatures without the need for excessive cooling. Think of getting a rocket into space if you need to understand why this is so important.
Equally Impressive Weight Reduction
From the aerospace perspective, a close second place to temperature resistance is weight reduction. Despite its heat tolerance, a typical CMC is only a third as dense as most superalloys. Lower density translates into lower weight. And lower weight translates into lighter engines and aircraft structures.
This is transformative in the sense that CMCs are encouraging engineers to design lighter air and spacecraft that use less fuel but can still accommodate larger and heavier payloads. And where range is a factor, less weight boosts it considerably.
Some of the biggest commercial aircraft in the world simply would not be possible without CMCs. And as the United States pursues the goal of returning to the moon, you can bet CMCs will play a critical role.
Improved Durability
Monolithic ceramics are pretty tough in their own right. But they are brittle and subject to catastrophic failure. Engineers have solved that problem with CMCs. Thanks to the fiber and matrix combination, CMCs offer enhanced fracture toughness. They resist crack propagation and catastrophic failure. The result is that components made with CMCs last longer, withstand thermal cycling more effectively, and handle mechanical stress extremely well.
Oxidation and Corrosion Resistance
Aerospace components must be able to withstand harsh oxidative environments. Because CMCs offer exceptional oxidation and corrosion resistance, they are the perfect materials for manufacturing certain types of parts – like those used in building gas turbine engines.
CMC parts maintain their integrity even over prolonged exposure to combustion gases and harsh atmospheric conditions. Even the high temperatures of combustion do not cause problems. This opens the door to more advanced engines that are carrying air and spacecraft longer distances at higher speeds.
Environmental Protection
The atmospheric environment is a harsh one we do not appreciate living on the land. But air and spacecraft need to deal with a lot. Fortunately, CMCs are easily coated with thermal and environmental barriers that further protect against the extremes of flight.
Improved environmental protection translates to longer maintenance intervals and reduced life cycle costs. Aircraft engines and space systems continue operating at peak performance without the need for so much intervention.
We are big on ceramic matrix composites and their ability to revolutionize aerospace design. Some of our biggest aerospace customers trust us as a leader in CMCs. When they need the toughest materials to design the next generation of air and spacecraft, CMCs answer the call. They are far superior to superalloys on just about every level, making them the best choice for aerospace design.