Packing and static seals specialist, Beldam Crossley, will use the Farnborough Air Show (14-20 July) to launch an innovative new overbraiding process for pipe insulation which has been devised specifically for the aerospace market.
Already boasting a strong portfolio of aerospace products, the Bolton-based company is first to market with a technique through which traditional insulation material used in yarn format is overbraided direct onto pipes and exhausts to give maximum insulation. The insulation can then be protected with a second wire or yarn overbraid such as aramid which would prevent damage to the insulation. Business development director, Steve Leopold, explains: “Currently, insulating blanket is usually wrapped around the pipes, supported only by thin metal sheeting. However, vibration can cause the fibres in the blanket to break up, meaning that the insulation around any length of pipe may not always be kept constant. “With this revolutionary new technique, we believe that we are the only company providing a solution whereby the insulation is kept consistent over the length and breadth of the component and remains in situ over its full working life.” On most aircraft, the insulation is normally used on components in the ‘externals’ part of the gas turbine outside the aircraft’s core. In addition, critical and sensitive components such as wiring harnesses, expansion bellows, oil, hydraulic and pneumatic hoses can also now be better protected from damage. Steve concludes: “Ultimately, the process eliminates the risk of poor or unreliable insulation around key aircraft components, while another plus-point is that the insulation is normally supplied onto completed solid pipes, even containing flanges and pipes formed to the finished profile. “The technique represents a major breakthrough for Beldam Crossley and we are delighted to be launching it at this year’s Farnborough Airshow, which is always synonymous with excellence in the aerospace industry.” |
