Development of dispersion strengthened nickel-chromium alloy (Ni-Cr-Th-O2) sheet for space shuttle vehicles, part 1
A dispersion-strengthened alloy, TD nickel chromium (TDNiCr) is being developed for use on the thermal protection system of the space shuttle at temperatures up to 1204 C(2200 F). Manufacturing processes were developed for the fabrication of sheet and foil to specifications. The addition of aluminum to the basic TDNiCr composition provides outstanding oxidation resistance up to 1260 C(2300 F); aluminum levels of 2 to 4% are considered optimum for space shuttle application.