The aerospace industry requires materials that can withstand extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, vibrations, and mechanical stresses. Narrow fabrics can offer the desired combination of strength, durability, and flexibility to meet these demands. Narrow fabric webbing, often made from durable materials such as nylon, polyester, or aramid fibers, serves a multitude of purposes in the aerospace sector. Some common uses of narrow fabrics in aerospace include:
Aerospace Interiors:
Narrow fabrics find applications in the interior design of aircraft cabins. They are used for seat covers, map pockets, headrests, carpet bindings, curtains, and decorative trims. These fabrics are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal, durability, and flame resistance.
Webbing Straps and Tie-downs:
Narrow fabrics, particularly those made from materials like nylon or polyester, are used as webbing straps and tie-downs in aircraft cargo systems. They secure and stabilize cargo, preventing movement or shifting during flight and ensuring safe transport of goods.
Harnesses and Lanyards:
Narrow fabrics are employed in the construction of harnesses and lanyards used by aerospace workers during maintenance, repair, and assembly tasks. These fabrics provide reliable attachment points and ensure the safety of personnel working at heights or in challenging environments.
Parachutes and Airborne Systems:
Narrow fabrics are an integral part of parachute systems used in aircraft, such as emergency escape systems or cargo parachutes. These fabrics provide strength and structural integrity to withstand the forces encountered during deployment and descent.
Thermal Protection:
In some aerospace applications, narrow fabrics are made using advanced fibers or using specialized coatings or treatments to provide thermal protection. They can be employed in insulation blankets, heat shields, or protective covers to safeguard sensitive components from extreme temperatures.
Flight Suits:
Narrow fabrics such as elastic, straps, and binding tapes can be used in a variety of aerospace apparel applications.
Life Support Systems:
Narrow fabrics are integrated into the design of life support systems within spacecraft and spacesuits. They are used to create harnesses, straps, and attachment points for life support equipment, including oxygen tanks, communication devices, and medical instrumentation. These fabrics ensure that essential equipment remains secure and accessible to astronauts during space missions.
Common materials used in the construction of narrow fabrics used in aerospace applications include:
- Kevlar
- Nomex
- Nylon
- Neoprene
- FR treated cotton
Whether it is a product that is already in production or a custom solution, there are many options for narrow fabrics in the aerospace industry.