Articles

Reducing Vibration

Vibration is an inescapable variable in aerospace. Airplane parts can only handle so much fatigue before they begin to degrade or fail. The longevity of instruments and avionics, landing gear, baffling, engine mounts, and even the airframe itself can be drastically impacted by the presence of excess vibration.

RCF Technologies logo. Reducing Vibration with photo of airplaneclick here for video

The Impact of Vibration

When it comes to vibration in an aircraft, there are numerous potential causes:

  • Crankshaft unbalance
  • Bearing problems
  • Loose or worn components in the assembly
  • Defective crankshaft counterweights
  • Cracked airframe components
  • Changes in the operating environment
  • Overloading
  • Lengthened service and aging effects

If ignored, the consequences of vibration are only magnified. In essence, vibration shortens the service life of critical components and, in turn, pushes up costs – often unexpectedly and unpredictably.

Effects of Vibration

Even though some vibration is normal and expected in aviation, when aircraft vibration becomes excessive, the following problems may arise:

  • Cracked exhaust stacks and sheet metal
  • Higher than normal occurrence of oil leaks and light bulb failures
  • Physical movement of the airframe (buzz in the seat, yoke and rudder pedals)
  • Passenger complaints of noise in the cabin

Metal isolation mounts wtih orange seals made of Rishon Material by RCF Technologies

Cutting Down on Vibration

While the elimination of vibration from aircraft is not achievable, reducing it as much as possible and managing its levels for optimum performance will make a noticeable difference and increase the longevity of the airframe and avionics.

Anti-vibration components and materials are a critical starting point on this journey. Careful consideration of characteristics such as deflection, static loading and alignment is crucial when making these selections. Specifying anti-vibration materials and components from the outset, rather than allowing vibration-related problems to become apparent during operation, will result in sustained performance and safety and lower costs.

Rishon® material from RCF Technologies, a low modulus material which absorbs both sound and vibration, is an excellent place to begin. For more information, contact us today.

 

Solving the Two Most Common Problems with High Temperature Gaskets

Gaskets play a crucial role in maintaining a secure seal between connected parts or surfaces, preventing fluid leaks and energy transfer. However, when it comes to high temperature applications, gaskets face two primary challenges: compression set due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and extrusion or blow out caused by high pressure. Below, we will explore these two common problems and introduce innovative solutions provided by RCF Technologies to overcome these challenges.

Problem 1 – Compression Set

Exposure to high temperature over an extended period can cause gaskets to experience compression set, where the material loses its ability to bounce back to its original shape, leading to leakage. Different gasket materials have varying temperature limits. While metallic and composite seals can withstand temperatures above 1000°F (537°C), elastomeric or rubber gaskets have a lower operating temperature of around 350°F (177°C). However, there is a solution that surpasses these limitations.

 

Rishon® Material for High Temperature Stability

RCF Technologies offers a revolutionary material called Rishon®, which is a combination of RCF’s proprietary silicone and fiberglass. This unique composite allows Rishon® to withstand temperatures from -170°F to +850°F (-112.2°C to +454.4°C) continuously. Not only does Rishon® excel in high-temperature applications, but it is also an FAA-approved fire barrier in thicknesses as low as .027″. By incorporating Rishon® gaskets, you can avoid compression set and ensure a reliable seal even in extreme temperature environments.

 

Problem 2 – Extrusion or Blow Out

Extrusion or blow out from high pressure presents another challenge for gaskets. This occurs when the pressure forces the gasket material to deform or dislodge, resulting in leaks and potential system failure. Overcoming this problem requires an innovative approach.

 

Solution: Rishon® Shim Gaskets for High-Pressure Applications

RCF Technologies has developed a solution to combat extrusion and blow out using Rishon® material together with unique design innovations. By utilizing a 1–10 mm shim faced with a single ply of Rishon® on either side, the gasket gains the strength of a metal gasket while retaining the excellent sealing properties of rubber. This unique design ensures that no extrusion or blow out occurs, even in applications with narrow gaps, high pressures, or multiple bolt holes. With Rishon® shim gaskets, you can achieve a secure and reliable seal under extreme pressure conditions.

Paulie Rose holding orange custom gasket made of Rishon material made by RCF Technologies

Click here to watch video!

 

Additional Custom Gasket Solutions by RCF Technologies

In addition to addressing the two most common problems with high-temperature gaskets, RCF Technologies offers a range of custom gasket solutions tailored to specific applications. One notable example is the single-fastener gasket used for plumbing firewalls. This gasket features an overlapped split design, providing a completely fireproof seal while allowing easy access to wire bundles or tubes. This innovative solution minimizes weight, reduces installation and removal labor, and ensures utmost safety.

Paulie Rose holding orange custom fireproof gasket made of Rishon material by RCF Technologies

Click here to watch video!

 

RCF Technologies: Your Partner in Custom Gasket Solutions

When it comes to high-temperature gaskets, RCF Technologies is a leading provider of customized solutions. RCF offers gaskets in any thickness and configuration, with the option to bond them to metal plates or other materials, make them fireproof, or design them to be easily removable. Whether your application involves anti-icing, engine seals, thrust reversers, or plumbing firewalls, RCF Technologies can deliver tailored gasket solutions to meet your specific needs.

 

In Conclusion

High-temperature applications present unique challenges for gaskets, including compression set and extrusion or blow out. However, by leveraging the advanced Rishon® material and innovative designs offered by RCF Technologies, these problems can be effectively overcome. With Rishon® custom gaskets, you can ensure a reliable seal even in extreme temperature and pressure environments. For custom gasket solutions that address your specific requirements, RCF Technologies is your trusted partner. Contact RCF today to discover how their expertise can benefit your applications.