SBIR-STTR Award

Hypersonic vehicles require high temperature seals to block hot gas flow at the intersection of static outer mold line panels, movable flaps and rudders, windows, and engine components. Today's state of the art high temperature seals may not be capable of withstanding the rigors of hypersonic environments. Desirable characteristics for hypersonic seals include: functionality at over 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit, flexibility and resiliency to fill gaps and uneven surfaces, low leak rate, resistance to degradation, and mitigation of electromagnetic interference. Jackson Bond Enterprises (JBE) has been manufacturing thermal seals for the aerospace industry since 2004. JBE's Phase I proposal focuses on verifying the feasibility of manufacturing improved high temperature seals suitable for hypersonic vehicles, by advancing existing manufacturing techniques, modifying seal construction, and incorporating new materials.

The current state-of-the-art high temperature seal must be improved to meet the requirements of hypersonic vehicles. In Phase I, Jackson Bond Enterprises, LLC (JBE) manufactured “proof-of-concept” improved seals for hypersonic vehicles, demonstrating the feasibility of improving temperature capability (peak temp), electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, and leak-rate. In Phase II, JBE will work with prime contractor Lockheed Martin and USAF stakeholders to refine the improved seal concepts developed in Phase 1, manufacture prototypes, and validate performance in relevant test environments. JBE will also apply the improvements to additional hypersonic seal configurations (multi-functionality). Upon completion of Phase II, JBE will have demonstrated the capability of one or more improved seal prototypes for use in hypersonic vehicles. An improved high temperature seal, with demonstrated capability in relevant environments, will be immediately beneficial to the expanding hypersonics market by providing increased capability, reliability, and reduced cost.