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At least 109 records · Page 6

TEM Analysis of Diffusion-Bonded Silicon Carbide Ceramics Joined Using Metallic Interlayers

Silicon Carbide (SiC) is a promising material for thermostructural applications due to its excellent high-temperature mechanical properties, oxidation resistance, and thermal stability. However, joining and integration technologies are indispensable for this material in order to fabricate large size and complex shape components with desired functionalities. Although diffusion bonding techniques using metallic interlayers have been commonly utilized to bond various SiC ceramics, detailed microstructural observation by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) of the bonded area has not been carried out due to difficulty in preparing TEM samples. In this study, we tried to prepare TEM samples from joints of diffusion bonded SiC ceramics by Focused Ion Beam (FIB) system and carefully investigated the interfacial microstructure by TEM analysis. The samples used in this study were SiC fiber bonded ceramics (SA-Tyrannohex: SA-THX) diffusion bonded with metallic interlayers such as Ti, TiMo, Mo-B and TiCu. In this presentation, we report the microstructure of diffusion bonded SA-THX mainly with TiCu interlayers obtained by TEM observations, and the influence of metallic interlayers on the joint microstructure and microhardness will be discussed.

Ceramics↗

Refill Friction Stir Spot Welding as an Alternative Joining Method for Wing Spar Structures

Since the introduction of refill friction stir spot welding (RFSSW) in the early 2000s, numerous evaluations of properties, performance, and prototypes have been documented. RFSSW is a solid-state spot joining technique that is being evaluated as a rivet replacement technology for aerospace structures and fuselage fabrication. A production evaluation of overlapping wing skin assembly was completed and experimentation on stringer-stiffened curvilinear panels is underway. Weld properties were evaluated for spots produced on bare sheet as well as for sections with sealant applied. Furthermore, evaluations of the performance of repaired spots using the RFSSW process is demonstrated. Characterization of the weld interface, heat-affected zone, and complete through-thickness consolidation via computed tomography is presented.

Solid-state joining↗

Joining, Disassembly, and Reconfiguration of Thermoplastic Composites for Space Applications

Thermoplastic composites are increasingly being investigated for aerospace applications because of their relatively short processing time, good chemical and radiation resistance, and potential for reforming and reuse via melting. The manufacturing, reforming, and reuse of thermoplastic composites can be leveraged to advance joining, disassembly, and reassembly of structures for space exploration activities. Potential applications include, but are not limited to, habitats and on-orbit assembly and/or reassembly of large-scale truss structures.

Reassembly↗

Flexible coiled spline securely joins mating cylinders

Mating cylindrical members are joined by spline to form an integral structure. The spline is made of tightly coiled, high tensile-strength steel spiral wire that fits a groove between the mating members. It provides a continuous bearing surface for axial thrust between the members.

Coppernol, R. W.↗

Special tooling for joining tubing in place

The Saturn S-II stage and the Apollo spacecraft will include in their design and construction various pressurized tubing systems that will encounter service temperatures of 280° F to -423° F. Design engineering and reliability requirements and weight restrict ions have dictated new concepts to assure leak-tight joints for rocket engine fuel lines, pressurization systems, utility systems, and hydraulic systems. An investigation was initiated at North American Aviation, Inc., Space and Information Systems Division, utilizing the in-place automatically controlled miniaturized fusion-welding equipment originally developed by the Los Angeles Division of NAA and modified to meet the needs of Apollo and Saturn welded tubular systems. The objective was to make circumferential flanged weld joints in any position in 304L stainless for Saturn S-II and sleeve-type joints in 304L for Apollo. Inconel X, commercially pure titanium, 5052-0 aluminum, and 6061 T6 aluminum were also tested experimentally. Extensive environmental, static, and dynamic testing programs were conducted to determine the as-welded mechanical properties, design allowables, and reliability for the tube joints. This paper discusses both the experimental and production phases. Subsequently, the new tube welding process was approved and incorporated into manufacturing fabrication methods for tube joining.

Saturn S-II stage↗