Compression Molding of Quartz Fiber Phenolic Components

Quartz Fiber Phenolic Component Compression Molding

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In this project, an aerospace customer required compression molding of an insulated nut from ablative composites composed of super high temperature quartz fiber phenolic compound. This high performance ablative composite is used in an aerospace system to prevent encapsulated metallic components from melting during re-entry into the earth's atmosphere.

From the customer's specifications, Globe went to work providing process development, which included precision compression molding that includes a nickel coated beryllium insert. An 80-ton compression molding system was used for the 305 gram shot that was subject to cavity pressures of 2,500 to 5,000 psi, before being finished with precision CNC machining. The finished component measured 3" in diameter and 1" in height, with a wall thickness that ranged from 0.050" - 1.00". A tight tolerance of ± 0.005" and shrinkage allowance of .00075" per inch was also achieved. All of which was verified through comprehensive visual and dimensional inspections as well as x-ray and other nondestructive testing.

This project is also in full compliance with various Mil Specs, and weapon specifications for ablative composites, and confirmed through the certificate of conformance (CoC) provided with each shipment. It is manufactured in quantities of up to 1000 units that are shipped annually to locations throughout the United States.

For more information about this aerospace insulated nut project, or any of Globe's critical components manufacturing capabilities, please see the table below or contact Globe directly.