Fluorosilicone (fluorosilicone rubber) is widely used in spacecraft sealing systems, mainly due to its unique physical and chemical properties. The following is a detailed analysis of the application of fluorosilicone in spacecraft sealing systems:
1. Performance advantages of fluorosilicone
High and low temperature resistance:
Fluorosilicone can maintain excellent elasticity and sealing properties in a wide temperature range of -55℃ to +200℃ (some special formulas can even reach +250℃). This feature enables it to adapt to the wide range of temperature changes experienced by spacecraft during launch, operation and return.
Chemical corrosion resistance:
Fluorosilicone has excellent resistance to a variety of chemicals, including acids, alkalis, solvents and oils. This allows fluorosilicone seals to maintain long-term stability in the complex chemical environment inside the spacecraft.
Radiation resistance:
Although the radiation resistance of fluorosilicone is not the most outstanding, its radiation aging resistance is better than that of ordinary silicone rubber. This means that in the radiation environment of the spacecraft, fluorosilicone seals can maintain stability and service life for a long time.
Good physical and mechanical properties:
Fluorosilicone has high strength, high elasticity, wear resistance and good tear resistance. These properties enable fluorosilicone seals to withstand various mechanical stresses generated by spacecraft during operation.
2. Application of fluorosilicone in spacecraft sealing systems
Diaphragms in fuel tank pressure regulating pipelines:
Fluorosilicone diaphragms are widely used in spacecraft fuel tank pressure regulating pipelines to control the internal pressure of the fuel tank. These diaphragms can maintain stable sealing performance under extreme temperature and chemical environments.
Diaphragms in fuel tank ventilation valves:
Similar to diaphragms in fuel tank pressure regulating pipelines, fluorosilicone diaphragms are also used in fuel tank ventilation valves. They can maintain long-term stability in harsh environments such as kerosene vapor and RP kerosene.
Static and dynamic seals:
Fluorosilicone seals are widely used in various static and dynamic sealing parts of spacecraft. These seals can withstand extreme conditions such as high temperature, high pressure and strong radiation to ensure the sealing and safety of spacecraft.
Other sealing applications:
In addition to the above applications, fluorosilicone is also used in other sealing parts of spacecraft, such as cable seals, pipeline connection seals, etc. These seals play a vital role in the operation of spacecraft.
3. Selection and precautions of fluorosilicone seals
When selecting fluorosilicone seals, the specific working environment and requirements of the spacecraft need to be considered. For example, it is necessary to understand the temperature range, chemical environment, radiation intensity, and required sealing performance and life of the spacecraft. In addition, it is also necessary to pay attention to the production process and quality control of fluorosilicone seals to ensure the stability and reliability of their performance.
In summary, fluorosilicone has a wide range of application prospects in spacecraft sealing systems due to its unique performance advantages. With the continuous development of aerospace technology, fluorosilicone seals will play a more important role in the future.